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buckeye chocolate peanut butter balls arranged on a rustic wooden tray

Homemade Buckeyes

Jana Rae
Discover this easy, no-bake Buckeye recipe, combining creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate for the perfect sweet treat! Ready in under 1 hour.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Chill time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter (smooth, not natural)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3-4 cups powdered sugar (start with 3 and add more if needed for consistency)
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chocolate candy coating
  • 1 tbsp shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate coating)

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, mix the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, starting with 3 cups and adding more as needed, until a stiff dough forms. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when rolled.
  • Scoop about a tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture and roll it into a ball. Place each ball onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat until all the peanut butter mixture is used.
  • Refrigerate the peanut butter balls for at least 1 hour to firm up. This step is essential for keeping the Buckeyes intact during dipping
  • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and shortening (if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
  • Using a toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small circle of peanut butter exposed on top (this gives it the classic “Buckeye” look). Allow any excess chocolate to drip off, then place the Buckeye back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Refrigerate the dipped Buckeyes for another 30 minutes or until the chocolate is fully set.
  • These Buckeyes are best served chilled and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

Tips to Make Them Perfect

  • Use Smooth Peanut Butter: Avoid natural peanut butter as it tends to separate, making the mixture difficult to work with.
  • Freeze for a Firmer Dip: If you’re in a hurry, freeze the peanut butter balls for 10-15 minutes to make dipping easier.
  • Toothpick Technique: Insert the toothpick at a slight angle to ensure a smooth dip and that signature “buckeye” look.