Buckeyes (Classic Peanut Butter & Chocolate Bites!)
- Sarah Smith
- a few seconds ago
- 3 min read
These homemade Buckeyes are the perfect no-bake treat for holidays, parties, gift boxes, or anytime you’re craving something sweet and nostalgic. Smooth, creamy peanut-butter filling is rolled into soft bites and dipped in rich melted chocolate—leaving the signature “buckeye” peek of peanut butter on top.
They’re easy to make, freezer-friendly, and taste just like the classic Christmas candies we grew up loving. Pair them with other treats like Oreo Truffles, Gingerbread Truffles, or Cinnamon Sugar Pecans to build a holiday dessert tray everyone will rave about!
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 minutes Chill Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes Servings: About 30-36 buckeyes
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Filling
1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3–4 cups powdered sugar (start with 3 cups, add more as needed)
Chocolate Coating
12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional—helps chocolate stay smooth)
Instructions
Mix the filling: In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
Add powdered sugar: Slowly mix in powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until the mixture is thick enough to roll into balls without sticking.
Roll into balls: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll into smooth balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill: Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes, or freeze for 10 minutes to firm up.
Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate and coconut oil in 20–30 second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Dip: Insert a toothpick into each peanut butter ball and dip into the melted chocolate, leaving the top uncovered to create the classic Buckeye look.
Set: Place dipped buckeyes back on the tray and chill until the chocolate is firm.
How to Serve
Enjoy them chilled, at room temperature, or as part of a holiday dessert platter. They also pair beautifully with hot cocoa, coffee, or eggnog!
Conclusion
These buckeyes are rich, creamy, chocolatey, and so simple to make—perfect for gifting, snacking, or adding to your Christmas treat boxes. Once you make them homemade, you'll never go back!
Buckeyes-FAQ
1. What are buckeyes made of?
Buckeyes are a no-bake candy made from a sweet peanut butter filling dipped in chocolate, leaving a small circle of peanut butter exposed on top.
2. Why are they called buckeyes?
They’re named after the nut from the Ohio buckeye tree—they look almost identical once dipped in chocolate, with the top showing.
3. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter works, but creamy peanut butter gives the traditional smooth texture that buckeyes are known for.
4. How do I keep the peanut butter mixture from sticking to my hands?
If the mixture is sticky, add a little more powdered sugar until it’s firm enough to roll easily. Chilling the dough briefly also helps.
5. Can I melt the chocolate on the stove instead of the microwave?
Absolutely. A double boiler works great and helps prevent overheating the chocolate.
6. Why is coconut oil added to the chocolate?
Coconut oil (or shortening) helps the chocolate melt smoothly and creates a shiny, softer shell that’s easier to bite into.
7. Do buckeyes need to be refrigerated?
Yes, buckeyes should be stored in the refrigerator to keep the chocolate firm. They’re safe at room temperature for a few hours when serving.
8. How long do buckeyes last?
They keep up to 2 weeks in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer. Store in an airtight container to stay fresh.
9. Can I freeze buckeyes?
Yes! Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag.
10. How can I make buckeyes without a toothpick hole showing?
After removing the toothpick, smooth over the hole with your fingertip or the back of a spoon.
11. My chocolate keeps cracking—what went wrong?
Chocolate cracks when the peanut butter balls are extremely cold. Let them warm up for 5 minutes before dipping.
12. Can I dip them fully in chocolate?
Yes! If you prefer fully coated peanut butter balls (instead of the classic buckeye style), dip them completely.