If you are searching for a deliciously sweet and nostalgic treat, this Buckeye Candy Recipe is an absolute must-try. Inspired by Ohio’s beloved candy, these peanut butter balls dipped halfway in rich, smooth chocolate capture that perfect harmony of salty and sweet that’s simply irresistible. Each bite melts on your tongue with creamy peanut butter goodness embraced by a shiny chocolate coating, making it a favorite for holiday gatherings or any time you crave a little homemade indulgence. I can’t wait to share how simple it is to make these little treasures in your own kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of this Buckeye Candy Recipe’s ingredients — each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect taste and texture. From the creamy peanut butter to the silky chocolate, these basics come together to make magic.
- Powdered sugar (4 cups): Provides a smooth sweetness that balances the peanut butter’s richness and helps achieve the ideal dough consistency.
- Creamy peanut butter (1½ cups): The star ingredient offering classic, nutty flavor and creamy texture that defines the candy.
- Salted butter (½ cup, melted): Adds moisture and richness, enhancing both taste and mouthfeel.
- Pure vanilla extract (1½ teaspoons): Brings a lovely warm note that deepens the flavor profile.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances the peanut butter’s natural flavor—adjust if using salted peanut butter.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (12 ounces): Coats the peanut butter balls beautifully with a bittersweet finish.
- Vegetable shortening (1 tablespoon): Helps smooth out the melted chocolate for the perfect dip consistency and shine.
How to Make Buckeye Candy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
First, line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside. This ensures your Buckeye candies won’t stick and will make cleanup a breeze. Having everything ready before you start mixing keeps the process enjoyable and stress-free.
Step 2: Cream the Sweet Peanut Butter Mixture
Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the powdered sugar, creamy peanut butter, melted butter, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Beat these ingredients together until they form a creamy, smooth mixture, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is key to blending flavors and developing a texture that holds up well when shaped.
Step 3: Shape and Chill the Dough
Once your peanut butter dough is ready, roll it into 1-inch balls using your hands. Placing these balls on the parchment-lined baking sheets, pop them in the refrigerator for about an hour to firm up. This chill time is essential; it makes dipping easier and helps the candies maintain their shape.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate Coating
While your peanut butter balls are chilling, microwave the semisweet chocolate chips and vegetable shortening in 15-second intervals on HIGH, stirring in between. Continue until most of the chocolate is melted, then stir until completely smooth. The shortening ensures your chocolate is silky and easy to work with for that perfect dip.
Step 5: Dip and Decorate
Insert a toothpick into the center of each peanut butter ball. Dip each ball about two-thirds of the way into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off before placing it back on the parchment paper. If your chocolate starts to thicken while you work, just pop it back into the microwave for a few seconds to maintain a smooth texture. This dipping process creates the signature look of buckeyes with a beautiful chocolate half-moon.
Step 6: Chill to Set
Finally, refrigerate the dipped Buckeyes in a covered container until the chocolate has completely hardened. This usually takes about an hour and ensures the candies have that perfect snap when you bite into them.
How to Serve Buckeye Candy Recipe
Garnishes
Though traditionally served plain, a light dusting of finely chopped roasted peanuts or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can add an extra layer of texture and flavor to your Buckeye Candy Recipe. These small touches elevate the presentation and entice guests invitingly.
Side Dishes
Buckeye candies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, black tea, or even a creamy milkshake for a nostalgic treat. Their sweet, nutty richness balances well with beverages that offer a little bitterness or creaminess. You might also serve them alongside a cheese platter with mild cheeses to create an unexpected but delightful party combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful with your presentation by arranging Buckeyes in mini cupcake liners or placing them artfully on a decorative platter with sprigs of fresh mint or edible flowers for a festive touch. Packaging them in a mason jar tied with ribbon makes an adorable gift that shows off how much you care.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Buckeye candies keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This allows them to maintain their freshness and texture while being ready for a spontaneous sweet craving or last-minute guests.
Freezing
If you want to make your Buckeye Candy Recipe well in advance, these candies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months and thaw quickly when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
Since Buckeyes are best served cold or at room temperature, reheating isn’t usually necessary. If you want to soften the chocolate slightly for dipping, warm the chocolate gently in short bursts. Otherwise, let frozen Buckeyes thaw naturally to enjoy that classic firm texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter in this Buckeye Candy Recipe?
While creamy peanut butter is recommended for that smooth, consistent texture, crunchy peanut butter can be used if you prefer a little extra crunch. Just keep in mind it may slightly change the candy’s mouthfeel.
What type of chocolate works best for dipping?
Semisweet chocolate chips are ideal because they provide a balanced sweetness and firm coating. High-quality brands like Ghirardelli melt smoothly and taste great, but feel free to experiment with milk chocolate or dark chocolate according to your taste.
Can I make the dough ahead of time before shaping?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peanut butter mixture in advance, keep it refrigerated overnight, and then roll into balls the next day. Just let it soften a bit at room temperature before rolling if it’s too firm.
How do I prevent the peanut butter balls from cracking when dipping?
Chilling the dough thoroughly before dipping is essential to prevent cracking. Also, dipping quickly and letting excess chocolate drip will help maintain an even coating without breaking the peanut butter center.
Are there any allergy-friendly substitutions for peanuts?
If you have a peanut allergy, you might try sunflower seed butter or almond butter, keeping in mind that flavor and texture will differ. Always test a small batch first to ensure the mixture holds together well.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so heartwarming about making and sharing the Buckeye Candy Recipe. These delightful treats bring a little joy and sweetness that can brighten any day or celebration. I hope you have as much fun making them as I do enjoying every bite. Give this recipe a try soon—it might just become your new favorite homemade candy!
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Buckeye Candy Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 60 candies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Buckeye Candy is a classic, no-bake treat combining creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar rolled into bite-sized balls, dipped in rich semisweet chocolate. Perfect for holidays and gatherings, these delightful candies resemble the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree and offer a sweet, nostalgic indulgence.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Mixture
- 4 cups powdered sugar (452 grams)
- 1½ cups creamy peanut butter (405 grams, Jif recommended)
- ½ cup salted butter (113 grams, melted, 1 stick)
- 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract (6 grams)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (3 grams, use less if using salted peanut butter)
Chocolate Coating
- 12 ounces semisweet chocolate chips (340 grams, 1 package, Ghirardelli recommended)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening (12 grams)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheets: Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside to ensure easy cleanup and proper setting of the candies.
- Mix Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine powdered sugar, creamy peanut butter, melted butter, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is creamy and well incorporated, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Form Balls: Roll the peanut butter dough into approximately 1-inch diameter balls using your hands. Place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet and refrigerate for about 1 hour until firm and chilled.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips and vegetable shortening. Heat in the microwave on high, stirring every 15 seconds until the chocolate is mostly melted. Remove and stir until completely smooth and glossy.
- Dip Buckeyes: Insert a toothpick into the top center of each chilled peanut butter ball. Dip about two-thirds of the ball into the melted chocolate, letting the excess chocolate drip off. Place the dipped candy back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat for all peanut butter balls. If the chocolate thickens, reheat briefly in the microwave to restore smoothness.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the dipped buckeyes in a covered container until the chocolate coating is firm, approximately 1 hour. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For best results, use creamy peanut butter and high-quality semisweet chocolate chips.
- If using salted peanut butter, reduce the added kosher salt to prevent oversalting.
- Refrigerating the peanut butter balls before dipping helps the chocolate set quickly and creates a clean finish.
- Store the finished buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Allow the buckeyes to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
