Classic Buckeyes: Peanut Butter Chocolate Candy Recipe
Classic Buckeyes are delicious bite-sized peanut butter and cream cheese balls partially dipped in rich chocolate, resembling the nut from the Ohio buckeye tree. These no-bake treats combine creamy peanut butter, smooth cream cheese, and buttery goodness, coated with a glossy chocolate layer for the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Ideal for parties and holidays, these easy-to-make sweets chill and set quickly for a delightful homemade confection.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 48 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
Chocolate Coating
- 8 ounces semisweet or dark chocolate, finely chopped or chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
Instructions
- Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together the peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and fine sea salt on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar: Gradually incorporate the sifted powdered sugar into the mixture, adding it one cup at a time. Continue mixing until a thick, pliable dough forms that’s easy to roll. You may only need between 3 1/2 to 4 cups of powdered sugar.
- Shape into balls: Roll the peanut butter dough into 1-inch (approximately 1½ tablespoons) balls. Place these on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up before dipping.
- Melt the chocolate: Combine the finely chopped semisweet or dark chocolate with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in short 20-second bursts, stirring thoroughly after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Dip the buckeyes: Insert a toothpick into each peanut butter ball and dip them about three-quarters of the way into the melted chocolate, leaving a small portion of the top exposed to mimic the look of a buckeye nut. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before setting them back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill to set: Return the dipped buckeyes to the refrigerator and chill for approximately 30 minutes, or until the chocolate coating is firm. Optionally, gently smooth over the holes left by the toothpicks if desired.
- Serve or store: Enjoy the buckeyes immediately, or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months.
Notes
- Ensure the peanut butter is creamy and not natural-style for the best texture and flavor.
- Chilling the peanut butter balls before dipping helps the chocolate set properly and prevents melting.
- Use coconut oil in the chocolate melt to achieve a smoother, shinier coating.
- If you notice holes from toothpicks after chilling, gently smooth them over with a bit of melted chocolate.
- For easier dipping, keep the chocolate warm but not hot to maintain a smooth consistency.
- These treats can be made ahead of time and stored frozen; thaw before serving for best results.
