Absolutely! Here’s a classic Homemade Buckeye Balls recipe — creamy peanut butter centers dipped in rich chocolate, just like the traditional Ohio favorite. No baking required!
🥜 Homemade Buckeye Balls
Yield: ~30–40 balls
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: ~1.5 hours
🧂 Ingredients:
Peanut Butter Filling:
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1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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3–4 cups powdered sugar (start with 3, add more as needed for stiffness)
Chocolate Coating:
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10–12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
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1 tbsp shortening or paraffin wax (optional – helps thin and shine the chocolate)
🍳 Instructions:
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Make the filling:
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In a large bowl, beat together peanut butter, butter, and vanilla until smooth.
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Gradually mix in powdered sugar until the mixture forms a thick dough that holds its shape. It should be firm, not sticky.
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Shape into balls:
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Scoop and roll dough into 1-inch balls.
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Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Chill in the refrigerator or freezer for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
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Melt chocolate:
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In a double boiler or microwave (in 30-second intervals), melt chocolate and shortening together until smooth.
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Dip the balls:
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Insert a toothpick into each chilled ball and dip ¾ of the way into the melted chocolate, leaving the top “eye” of peanut butter visible (like a buckeye nut).
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Let excess chocolate drip off, then place back on the parchment.
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Chill until set:
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Once all are dipped, refrigerate again for at least 30 minutes or until chocolate is firm.
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You can gently smooth over the toothpick holes with your finger if desired.
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📦 Storage:
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
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Or freeze for up to 3 months.
🔁 Tips & Variations:
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Use dark chocolate or milk chocolate depending on your preference.
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For extra texture, mix in some crushed graham crackers or rice cereal with the peanut butter.
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Try adding a little sea salt on top for a sweet-salty twist.