Description
Buckeye Balls are a classic no-bake treat featuring a creamy peanut butter and butter dough coated in rich, melted chocolate. These festive, bite-sized confections are perfect for holidays or any time you crave a sweet, peanut buttery delight. With a smooth, sweet center and a crisp chocolate shell, they’re easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Balls
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butter, at room temperature
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
Chocolate Coating
- 8 ounces chocolate chips or candy melts/almond bark (dark chocolate, white chocolate, or both)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening
- Optional: 1/2 cup holiday sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, room temperature butter, and sifted powdered sugar. Mix until all ingredients are incorporated, then knead with your hands until a smooth, pliable dough forms.
- Shape the Balls: Roll the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them evenly spaced on a parchment-lined sheet pan to prevent sticking.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the peanut butter balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up, making them easier to handle when dipping.
- Melt the Chocolate: Place the chocolate chips or candy melts and vegetable shortening into a medium bowl. If using two types of chocolate, divide the quantity and shortening between two bowls. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until fully melted and smooth.
- Dip the Balls: Remove the chilled peanut butter balls from the fridge. Using a toothpick to hold each ball, dip it completely into the melted chocolate. If desired, quickly roll or sprinkle the coated balls with holiday sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet. Use your finger to gently smooth over the top of each ball to conceal the toothpick hole.
- Set the Chocolate: Place the dipped buckeye balls back on the parchment-lined pan and refrigerate for 30 minutes or until the chocolate coating is firm and set.
- Serve: Once set, serve the buckeye balls as a delicious treat. Store any leftovers refrigerated to maintain freshness.
Notes
- For easier dipping, ensure the peanut butter balls are cold and firm before coating.
- Vegetable shortening helps thin the chocolate for a smoother coating; you can adjust quantity slightly if needed.
- Use a toothpick to dip the balls to keep your hands clean and get a smooth finish.
- These treats keep well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- For a festive touch, use different types of chocolate or add sprinkles immediately after dipping.
- Allow the chocolate to fully set in the fridge to prevent melting when served.
