Peanut Butter Balls aka Buckeye Balls Recipe

Introduction

Peanut Butter Balls, also known as Buckeye Balls, are a classic no-bake treat that blends creamy peanut butter with rich chocolate. These bite-sized delights are perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet and nutty snack.

A close-up view of round chocolate-covered treats in a white bowl lined with white paper. Each treat has two visible layers: a smooth dark brown chocolate outer coating and a light tan creamy center on top, slightly domed with a soft texture. The treats are stacked closely together, showing slight variations in chocolate thickness and small imperfections on the surface, all set against a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup butter (melted)
  • 1 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 3/4 cup peanut butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
  • 7 oz Baker’s dark chocolate dipping chocolate

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, powdered sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla. Beat on low with an electric mixer until the mixture is fully combined.
  3. Step 3: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the mixture and roll into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Step 4: Refrigerate the balls for at least one hour to firm up.
  5. Step 5: Melt the chocolate according to package directions, heating for 30 seconds, stirring, then another 30 seconds and stirring again.
  6. Step 6: Use a toothpick to poke each ball, then dip it into the melted chocolate, leaving the tops exposed if desired. Let excess chocolate drip off, then return the balls to the parchment-lined sheet.
  7. Step 7: Place the coated balls back in the refrigerator to allow the chocolate to set completely.
  8. Step 8: Once set, remove the toothpicks and gently smooth over any holes left behind.
  9. Step 9: Serve and enjoy your delicious peanut butter balls!

Tips & Variations

  • For a creamier texture, try using creamy peanut butter instead of chunky.
  • Adjust the powdered sugar to taste if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet filling.
  • You can substitute milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate depending on your preference.
  • If you want fully coated balls, dip them completely in chocolate rather than leaving the tops exposed.

Storage

Store peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage—freeze on a tray first, then transfer to a sealed container. To reheat, allow them to come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows several small round treats with two layers on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a smooth, dark chocolate coating that forms a round base, slightly wider than the top. The top layer is a creamy, tan peanut butter mound with a soft, slightly cracked texture. Around the treats, there are a few small, shiny dark chocolate drops scattered. Part of a white cloth with a green grid pattern is visible in the bottom left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but note that natural versions may be less sweet and have a slightly different texture, which can affect the firmness of the balls.

Can I make these without an electric mixer?

Absolutely. You can mix the ingredients thoroughly by hand using a sturdy spoon or spatula, but it may take a bit more effort to combine everything smoothly.

Print

Peanut Butter Balls aka Buckeye Balls Recipe

Peanut Butter Balls, also known as Buckeye Balls, are a delightful no-bake treat featuring a creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar center dipped in rich dark chocolate. These bite-sized sweets are easy to make, perfect for snacking or sharing during holidays and special occasions.

  • Author: Clara
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 20 peanut butter balls 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Peanut Butter Mixture

  • 1/4 cup butter (melted)
  • 1 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 3/4 cup peanut butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Coating

  • 7 oz Baker’s dark chocolate dipping chocolate

Instructions

  1. Prepare baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper and set it aside to keep the peanut butter balls from sticking during chilling and dipping.
  2. Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, powdered sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on low speed to beat all ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
  3. Form balls: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop the mixture and roll into balls approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
  4. Chill: Place the baking sheet with the peanut butter balls into the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the balls to firm up and hold their shape.
  5. Melt chocolate: Melt the dark chocolate dipping chocolate according to package directions—typically microwaving for 30 seconds, stirring, then microwaving for another 30 seconds and stirring until smooth.
  6. Dip and coat: Use a toothpick to poke each peanut butter ball and dip it partially into the melted chocolate, leaving the tops exposed to resemble the traditional buckeye look. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the dipped ball back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Set chocolate: Return the dipped peanut butter balls to the refrigerator to allow the chocolate coating to set and harden properly.
  8. Finish and smooth: Once the chocolate is firm, carefully remove the toothpicks and smooth over the small holes left behind for a clean, polished look.
  9. Serve: Your peanut butter balls are now ready to enjoy as a delicious and festive treat.

Notes

  • Use room temperature peanut butter for easier mixing.
  • To speed up setting time, place the peanut butter balls in the freezer for 15-20 minutes after dipping.
  • Store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • For a different flavor, try using milk or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate.
  • If you prefer fully coated balls, dip the entire ball in chocolate rather than leaving the top exposed.

Keywords: Peanut Butter Balls, Buckeye Balls, No-Bake Dessert, Peanut Butter Chocolate Treat, Holiday Snack

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