Ultimate Peanut Butter Buckeyes
Indulge in these decadent Ultimate Peanut Butter Buckeyes, delectable bites that harmoniously blend creamy peanut butter with rich chocolate. Unlike traditional candy, these homemade treats offer a delightful balance of sweetness and nuttiness that will have you reaching for seconds (or thirds!). Perfect for parties, holidays, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these Buckeyes are sure to make you forget about store-bought options like Reese's Cups. Just a word of caution: they are incredibly addictive and undeniably delicious!
50
Servings
64
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
peanut butter
1 1/2 cups (smooth or crunchy, your preference)
margarine or butter
1/2 cup (softened)
powdered sugar
1 lb (sifted)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (pure or imitation)
chocolate chips
1 1/2 cups (semi-sweet or dark)
shortening
3 tablespoons (for melting with chocolate (1/2 tsp per oz of chocolate))
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and softened margarine or butter until smooth and creamy.
2
Gradually stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and the mixture holds together.
3
Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4
Refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes, or until they are firm.
5
While the peanut butter balls are chilling, melt the chocolate chips with shortening in a double boiler. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
6
Once chilled, remove the peanut butter balls from the refrigerator. Insert a toothpick into the top of each ball, then carefully dip them into the melted chocolate, leaving a small portion of the peanut butter exposed to resemble a buckeye.
7
Place the dipped Buckeyes back on the parchment paper and allow them to cool until the chocolate hardens. For best results, store the finished candies in the refrigerator or freezer.
Nutrition Information
4g
Fat
7g
Carbs
1.2g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Ultimate Peanut Butter Buckeyes?
Ultimate Peanut Butter Buckeyes are decadent homemade candy treats that blend creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate, designed to look like the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 50 servings.
How many calories are in one Buckeye?
Each Buckeye contains approximately 64 calories.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, you can use either smooth or crunchy peanut butter depending on your personal preference.
Do I have to use butter?
The recipe allows for either softened margarine or softened butter.
How long should I chill the peanut butter balls?
Refrigerate the shaped peanut butter balls for at least 30 minutes, or until they are firm.
Why is shortening added to the chocolate?
Shortening is used to help the chocolate chips melt smoothly and to provide a better consistency for dipping.
What type of chocolate chips should I use?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips are recommended for this recipe.
What is the best way to store Buckeyes?
For best results, store the finished candies in the refrigerator or freezer.
Can I freeze these Buckeyes?
Yes, Buckeyes freeze very well and are often enjoyed straight from the freezer.
How do I melt the chocolate for dipping?
Melt the chocolate chips with shortening in a double boiler, stirring continuously until smooth.
Why leave a portion of the peanut butter exposed?
Leaving a small circle of peanut butter visible at the top is what makes them look like authentic buckeyes.
What size should the peanut butter balls be?
Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
How much fat is in one serving?
Each Buckeye contains approximately 4g of fat.
What is the protein content per Buckeye?
There is approximately 1.2g of protein in each Buckeye.
How many carbohydrates are in each piece?
Each piece contains about 7g of carbohydrates.
Is vanilla extract necessary?
Yes, the recipe uses 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (pure or imitation) to enhance the flavor.
How do I dip the balls into the chocolate?
Insert a toothpick into the top of each ball to hold it, then dip it into the melted chocolate.
Should I use parchment paper?
Yes, place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
How much powdered sugar is needed?
The recipe requires 1 lb of sifted powdered sugar.
Can I use a microwave to melt the chocolate?
While a double boiler is recommended for even melting, you can use a microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently.
What if my peanut butter mixture is too sticky?
If the mixture is too sticky to roll, you can add a little more powdered sugar or chill it for a few minutes before shaping.
How much shortening do I use?
Use 3 tablespoons of shortening for 1 1/2 cups of chocolate chips.
What should I do if the chocolate starts to harden while dipping?
Keep the chocolate over the warm water of the double boiler on low heat to maintain a liquid consistency.
Does the powdered sugar need to be sifted?
Yes, sifting the powdered sugar ensures a smooth texture without lumps in the peanut butter center.
How much peanut butter is required?
You will need 1 1/2 cups of peanut butter.
Are these suitable for holiday gifts?
Absolutely, Buckeyes are a popular choice for holiday treats and gift-giving.
How do I hide the toothpick hole?
After removing the toothpick, you can gently press the hole closed with your finger to smooth it over.
Is there any salt in this recipe?
The recipe does not call for additional salt, as the peanut butter and butter usually provide enough.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
This recipe requires 6 main ingredients: peanut butter, margarine/butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, chocolate chips, and shortening.