Introduction: Buckeye Candy Recipe

These candies got their name from their resemblance to the nut of the buckeye tree.   A delicious combination of peanut butter and dark chocolate.  A special treat at Christmas time or anytime.  Especially if you are an Ohio State Buckeye fan!

Disclaimer: This recipe contains Peanuts.

Step 1: Ingredients for Recipe

To make this recipe you will need:

1/2 stick (4 Tbsp) butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup crunchy or creamy peanut butter  (I like the added texture of crunchy)
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups (12 oz bag) semi-sweet chocolate chips

This recipe makes approximately 45 buckeyes and can be completed in about an hour.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients for the Balls

In a medium sized mixing bowl, combine softened butter, powdered sugar, peanut butter, vanilla, and salt.  Stir until well blended.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Balls

Scoop a teaspoon full of mixture and form a ball by rolling it in the palm of your hands.  Place it on a cookie sheet covered with parchment paper or foil and freeze for about 15 minutes while doing next step.

(Covering the cookie sheet keeps the balls from sticking and can be used again in the chocolate dipping step.)

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate Chips

I like to use a mini crock pot to melt the chocolate chips. Stir occasionally until smooth.  It melts the chocolate on low/warm setting and there is less chance of overcooking or burning the chocolate.

( Use a double broiler or other method at your own risk.  Be careful around hot surfaces.)

Step 5: Dipping the Balls Into the Chocolate

Use your measuring cup to get a few balls out of the freezer at a time.  Using a toothpick dip the balls into the chocolate, leave the top uncovered to make them look like the real nut.  Place them on a cookie sheet covered in parchment paper or foil.

(I use the same cookie sheet by putting the balls back in the freezer in the mixing bowl.)

Step 6: Ready to Serve

Chill for 15 minutes and then using a spoon smooth out the top to cover the hole made by the toothpick. They are ready to serve!  Get yours first because they disappear fast.

(Pictured on the side of the plate are actual buckeyes for visual comparison.  Do Not Eat - the natural nut is highly toxic to humans and animals when ingested.)