Buckeye Candy Recipe
Buckeyes originated in Ohio, USA, where the buckeye nut has long been the state's official tree symbol. The Buckeye candy as we know it was inspired by Ohioans who began making these treats in their kitchens in the 1960s, modeling them after the native nut’s distinctive appearance.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Toothpicks
- Microwave-safe bowl (or double boiler for melting chocolate)
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, to thin the chocolate)
Instructions
- Make the Peanut Butter FillingIn a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed to blend until the mixture is smooth and slightly firm. If the filling is too soft to handle, add a bit more powdered sugar, or refrigerate the mixture for 10-15 minutes until it's easier to work with.
- Form the Buckeye BallsLine a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture and roll it between your palms to form a smooth, round ball. Place the ball onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Repeat this process until all the peanut butter mixture has been used. You should end up with about 24 balls.
- Chill the peanut butter balls in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Chilling helps the balls firm up, making them easier to dip in chocolate.
- Melt the ChocolatePlace the chocolate chips and coconut oil (optional) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Alternatively, melt the chocolate in a double boiler on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Dip the BuckeyesRemove the peanut butter balls from the refrigerator.
- Insert a toothpick into the center of each ball and dip it into the melted chocolate, leaving a small circle of peanut butter visible on top to create the classic Buckeye look.
- Let any excess chocolate drip off before placing each dipped ball back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Remove the toothpick and gently smooth over the hole with a small amount of peanut butter.
- Step 5: Set the ChocolateOnce all the Buckeyes are dipped, return the baking sheet to the refrigerator to let the chocolate set for about 30 minutes.
- Once set, your Buckeyes are ready to serve or store in an airtight container. They keep well in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.