15 minutes
Dive into the heart of Ohio tradition with these rich and creamy Buckeye Treats. Perfectly combining peanut butter with a smooth chocolate coating, these candies offer a delightful snap that's sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Creamy peanut butter
cups
Unsalted Butter, softened but still cool, cut into 8 pieces
tablespoons
teaspoons
Confectioners’ Sugar, sifted
cups
Bittersweet Chocolate, finely chopped
0 oz
1. Peanut Butter Mixture Prep
In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, blend the peanut butter, butter, and salt on medium speed until nearly smooth, with small flecks of butter visible, about 30 seconds. Reduce speed to low, gradually add confectioners' sugar, and mix until just combined. Pause to scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
2. Forming the Balls
Prep two large plates with parchment paper. Divide the chilled peanut butter mixture into 32 equal portions (roughly 1 tablespoon each). Roll each portion between your palms to form smooth balls and place them on the prepared plates. Insert a toothpick three-quarters of the way into each ball for dipping. Freeze the balls until they are firm, which should take about 1 hour.
3. Chocolate Coating
In a microwave-safe measuring cup or bowl, melt 10 ounces (284 grams) of the chopped chocolate at 50 percent power, pausing to stir every 30 seconds, until the chocolate is almost fully melted but still holds some shape, about 2-3 minutes. Take the cup out of the microwave and stir in the remaining 2 ounces (57 grams) of chocolate until completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Dipping
Tilt the measuring cup to pool the chocolate on one side. Working one plate at a time (keeping the other plate in the freezer), dip the chilled balls into the chocolate by holding the toothpicks, covering about two-thirds of each ball. Return the coated balls to the parchment paper and let them set in the refrigerator until the chocolate shell hardens and the balls are no longer frozen, roughly 30 minutes.
5. Finishing Touches
Once set, gently remove the toothpicks from the candies. The Buckeye Treats are now ready to serve.
Add a gourmet touch by sprinkling flaked sea salt or pink Himalayan salt on top of the chocolate before it sets. The contrast of the sweet and salty can elevate the simple buckeye to a more complex treat.
Press the peanut butter dough onto a pretzel, and then dip in chocolate for a salty-sweet combination.
Mix in crushed pretzels, toffee bits, or rice crisps into the peanut butter base to add texture. The subtle crunch will offer a satisfying contrast to the creamy center.
Instead of semi-sweet chocolate, dip the buckeyes in white chocolate, dark chocolate (70-85% cacao), or even a flavored chocolate like orange-infused or raspberry swirl. Each type of chocolate coating will give the treats a distinctive taste.
Use white chocolate, dark chocolate, or even flavored chocolate (like mint or orange-infused chocolate) for different chocolate coatings.
Use high-quality, creamy peanut butter and couverture chocolate with a higher percentage of cocoa butter for a better texture and flavor.
Use a dipping fork or chocolate dipping tool instead of toothpicks for a professional look.
Allow sufficient chilling time for the peanut butter balls to set properly before dipping in chocolate.
Melt chocolate using a double boiler or heatproof bowl over simmering water and consider adding coconut oil for sheen and ease of dipping.
Keep peanut butter balls chilled and work in small batches or on a chilled surface if in a warm climate.
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