Peanut Butter Balls aka Buckeye Balls
Peanut Butter Balls aka Buckeye Balls are a nostalgic and delightful treat combining creamy peanut butter with rich semi-sweet chocolate. These bite-sized desserts feature a smooth, sweet peanut butter filling coated in a glossy chocolate shell, perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you want a sweet and satisfying indulgence. Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients, they are customizable to fit dietary preferences and can be prepared in advance for stress-free celebrations.
- Author: Kaeli
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (melting chocolate and dipping)
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: About 30 peanut butter balls 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No Bake (melting and dipping chocolate)
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Peanut Butter Filling
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Chocolate Coating
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1–2 tablespoons vegetable oil or shortening
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 3 cups powdered sugar. Mix until smooth and the dough holds its shape well. This creates the creamy base for the peanut butter balls.
- Shape into Balls: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls using your hands or a small cookie scoop. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up and prevent melting during dipping.
- Melt the Chocolate: Gently melt 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips with 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil or shortening in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler. Stir frequently until smooth and glossy.
- Dip and Decorate: Using a toothpick or fork, dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Place back on parchment paper. For the classic Buckeye look, leave a small circle of peanut butter exposed by not fully coating the ball.
- Chill and Set: Refrigerate the dipped balls for 1-2 hours until the chocolate hardens completely. Once set, the peanut butter balls are ready to serve, gift, or store.
Notes
- Use room temperature softened butter for easier blending and a smooth dough.
- Chill the peanut butter balls thoroughly before dipping for better coating adherence.
- Thin the melted chocolate with oil or shortening for a smooth, fluid dipping consistency.
- Work quickly when dipping to prevent chocolate from hardening prematurely.
- Store finished peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 peanut butter ball
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Peanut Butter Balls, Buckeye Balls, holiday treats, no bake desserts, peanut butter chocolate balls, gluten free dessert