With their creamy, sweetened peanut butter centers peeking through a chocolate-dipped bottom, Peanut Butter Buckeyes are hard to resist.
These delicious little bites are just loaded with that classic chocolate and peanut butter combination we love so much!
Follow these simple steps to whip up a tasty batch at Christmas time, or anytime that chocolate-peanut butter craving hits.
TO MAKE PEANUT BUTTER BUCKEYES, YOU WILL NEED
- 2 sticks butter, softened
- 2 c. smooth peanut butter
- 6 c. (about 1 ½ lbs.) confectioners’ sugar
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 12 oz. ( 2 c.) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tsp. shortening
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
HOW DO YOU MAKE PEANUT BUTTER BUCKEYES?
- Form the balls:
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, mix together butter, peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla until well combined.
Step 2: Line a cookie sheet or jelly roll pan with wax paper. Roll the peanut butter dough into 1-inch balls and place the balls on the lined pan.
Step 3: Place pan in the freezer and chill the peanut butter balls until firm, about 30 minutes.
- Dip the balls:
Step 1: Combine chocolate chips and shortening in the top of a double boiler or small shallow mixing bowl set over simmering water.
Step 2: Stir frequently until chocolate chips are melted and smooth.
Step 3: Remove melted chocolate from the pot of simmering water. Remove peanut butter balls from the freezer.
Step 4: Working with one peanut butter ball at a time, stick a wooden pick into the ball – inserting it about ¾ of the way in & making sure to not poke through the bottom of the ball.
Step 5: Hold onto the wooden pick as a “handle;” dip the bottom portion of the peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving some of the peanut butter exposed at the top.
Let any excess chocolate drip off back into the melted chocolate.
Step 6: Place on the wax paper-lined pan and gently remove the wooden pick. Repeat until all peanut butter balls have been dipped in chocolate.
Step 7: Chill the dipped buckeyes until the chocolate is set, about 15 minutes. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator (or freezer) until serving.
Step 8: Enjoy your creamy Peanut Butter Buckeyes!
RECIPE NOTES AND HELPFUL TIPS:
The peanut butter dough will be pretty stiff and look dry – don’t worry, that’s how it’s supposed to be. It will come together and smooth out when you roll the dough into balls.
I use a small cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon capacity) to scoop out the peanut butter dough for each ball. This helps keep my buckeyes all pretty close to the same size.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:
Yield: 90 – 100 | Estimate the nutritional information for each serving:
Calories: 150kcal | Total Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 60mg | Total Carbohydrates: 17g | Sugar: 15g | Protein: 2g | Calcium: 9mg | Iron: 1mg | Potassium: 89mg
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs):
1. What are Peanut Butter Buckeyes?
Peanut Butter Buckeyes are a plant-based version of the classic Buckeye candy.
They typically consist of a creamy peanut butter filling partially dipped in vegan chocolate, leaving a small circle of peanut butter visible on top.
2. Are these Peanut Butter Buckeyes difficult to make?
No, Peanut Butter Buckeyes are relatively easy to make. The process involves mixing a few simple ingredients for the filling, shaping them into balls, and then coating them with vegan chocolate.
3. Can I use natural peanut butter in the recipe?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but make sure to stir it well before using to ensure that the oil is evenly distributed. The texture of natural peanut butter may vary, so you might need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar accordingly.
4. What type of vegan chocolate is best for coating?
You can use dairy-free chocolate chips, chunks, or bars. Look for high-quality vegan chocolate with a good taste and texture. You can also use dark chocolate, semi-sweet, or a combination based on your preference.
5. How do I store Peanut Butter Buckeyes?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can also be frozen for longer storage. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
6. Can I make these nut-free?
Yes, you can use alternative spreads like sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter for a nut-free version. Ensure that other ingredients used are also nut-free.
7. Are Vegan Peanut Butter Buckeyes gluten-free?
Typically, yes. The main ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels of specific products (such as chocolate) to ensure they are gluten-free.
8. Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can make Peanut Butter Buckeyes in advance. They actually benefit from some time in the refrigerator to firm up. Prepare and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
9. How long do these Peanut Butter Buckeyes last?
They can last for about 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator and can be frozen for longer storage. Be sure to keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Let’s Make These Delicious Peanut Butter Buckeyes!
And there you have it – these easy, yummy Peanut Butter Buckeyes are ready to take their place on your table. If you decide to give it a shot, make sure to snap a photo and share it with us on Facebook and Pinterest.
Be sure to follow us for more yummy recipes in the future. Until next time, happy cooking!
Easy Vegan Peanut Butter Buckeyes
Print ThisIngredients
- 2 sticks butter, softened
- 2 c. smooth peanut butter
- 6 c. (about 1 ½ lbs.) confectioners' sugar
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 12 oz. ( 2 c.) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tsp. shortening
Instructions
- Form the balls:
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, mix together butter, peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla until well combined.
Step 2: Line a cookie sheet or jelly roll pan with wax paper. Roll the peanut butter dough into 1-inch balls and place the balls on the lined pan.
Step 3: Place pan in the freezer and chill the peanut butter balls until firm, about 30 minutes.
- Dip the balls:
Step 1: Combine chocolate chips and shortening in the top of a double boiler or small shallow mixing bowl set over simmering water.
Step 2: Stir frequently until chocolate chips are melted and smooth.
Step 3: Remove melted chocolate from the pot of simmering water. Remove peanut butter balls from the freezer.
Step 4: Working with one peanut butter ball at a time, stick a wooden pick into the ball – inserting it about ¾ of the way in & making sure to not poke through the bottom of the ball.
Step 5: Hold onto the wooden pick as a “handle;” dip the bottom portion of the peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving some of the peanut butter exposed at the top. Let any excess chocolate drip off back into the melted chocolate.
Step 6: Place on the wax paper-lined pan and gently remove the wooden pick. Repeat until all peanut butter balls have been dipped in chocolate.
Step 7: Chill the dipped buckeyes until the chocolate is set, about 15 minutes. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator (or freezer) until serving.
Step 8: Enjoy your creamy Peanut Butter Buckeyes!
