A Classic Chocolate & Peanut Butter Treat
If you love peanut butter and chocolate, then you’re in for a treat! Buckeye Balls are a classic Midwestern dessert, named after the Ohio buckeye nut because they resemble the real thing. These sweet, creamy peanut butter balls dipped in smooth chocolate are easy to make and absolutely irresistible!
I love this recipe because it’s simple, no-bake, and perfect for holidays, parties, or gifting. If you’re a fan of Reese’s, you’ll love these homemade chocolate peanut butter bites!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Why are they called Buckeye Balls?
Buckeye Balls are named after the Ohio buckeye tree nuts, which are round and dark brown with a tan center—just like these peanut butter treats!
Q: Can I make Buckeye Balls without a mixer?
Yes! You can mix the peanut butter filling by hand using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula—it just takes a little extra effort.
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?
It’s best to use regular creamy peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy), as natural peanut butter has more oil and can make the filling too soft.
Q: How do I get smooth chocolate coating?
- Use melted chocolate chips with a little coconut oil or shortening for a smoother, shinier coating.
- Dip the balls cold to prevent melting into the chocolate.
Q: How long do Buckeye Balls last?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
What You Need to Make Buckeye Balls
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother dipping)
How to Make Buckeye Balls
Step 1: Make the Peanut Butter Filling
- In a large bowl, mix peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until a dough forms.
Step 2: Shape & Chill
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze for 30 minutes until firm.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Step 4: Dip the Buckeyes
- Using a toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small circle of peanut butter exposed on top.
- Place back on the tray and smooth over the toothpick hole if needed.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until the chocolate is set.
- Serve cold and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Buckeye Balls
✔ Use room-temperature butter – This helps the filling mix smoothly.
✔ Chill before dipping – This keeps the peanut butter balls firm and prevents melting.
✔ Don’t overheat the chocolate – Stir between microwave intervals to prevent burning.
✔ Use a toothpick for easy dipping – It creates the classic Buckeye look with a peanut butter top!
✔ For extra crunch – Add crushed pretzels or rice cereal to the peanut butter mixture.
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emma L. – “These turned out perfect! The peanut butter center was creamy, and the chocolate was smooth.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 James K. – “So easy to make! I added a little sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Samantha W. – “My family LOVES these! We make them every Christmas, and they never last long!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Lucas R. – “I used dark chocolate instead of semisweet—amazing!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jessica T. – “The perfect peanut butter and chocolate combo! Way better than store-bought candy.”
Printable Recipe
Buckeye Balls
These Buckeye Balls are an easy, no-bake dessert featuring creamy peanut butter filling dipped in rich chocolate—a classic Ohio favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother dipping)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Peanut Butter Filling
- In a large bowl, mix peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until a dough forms.
Step 2: Shape & Chill
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze for 30 minutes until firm.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Step 4: Dip the Buckeyes
- Using a toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small circle of peanut butter exposed on top.
- Place back on the tray and smooth over the toothpick hole if needed.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until the chocolate is set.
- Serve cold and enjoy!
Check Out Some Of Our Other Recipes / Crafts
Blissful Blueberry Shortcake Cake
Make Delicious Ice Cream in a Bag in Just 15 Minutes
If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If you loved these Buckeye Balls, don’t keep them to yourself! Share them on social media, pin them on Pinterest, or send them to a friend who loves peanut butter and chocolate. I’d love to see your versions—tag me if you try them!
