Ingredients
Peanut Butter Filling
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
Chocolate Coating
- 8 ounces semisweet or dark chocolate, finely chopped (or chocolate chips)
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
Instructions
- Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and sea salt on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Add the powdered sugar: Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, adding about 1 cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until the dough becomes thick, pliable, and easy to roll. You may not need the entire 4 cups depending on humidity and ingredient moisture.
- Shape into balls: Roll the peanut butter dough into 1-inch diameter balls (approximately 1½ tablespoons each) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until they are firm enough to handle.
- Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and coconut oil. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth without any lumps.
- Dip the buckeyes: Insert a toothpick into each chilled peanut butter ball, then dip about ¾ of the way into the melted chocolate, leaving a small round portion at the top exposed to replicate the appearance of a buckeye nut. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back onto the parchment-lined sheet.
- Chill to set: Return the dipped buckeyes to the refrigerator and chill for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate coating has fully hardened. If desired, gently smooth over the small holes left by the toothpicks to enhance their appearance.
- Serve or store: Enjoy the buckeyes right away or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months to maintain freshness and texture.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter instead of natural to ensure a smooth and cohesive filling dough.
- Sifting the powdered sugar prevents lumps and creates a lighter texture.
- Chilling the peanut butter balls before dipping helps them hold their shape and prevents melting during dipping.
- Coconut oil helps smooth out the melted chocolate and creates a shinier coating.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the chocolate from blooming.
- Prep Time: 45 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American