Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make the peanut butter base: Cream the peanut butter, butter, and vanilla extract together using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment. Mix on low speed for about 30 seconds, then stop and scrape down the bowl.
- Add powdered sugar: Slowly add the powdered sugar while mixing on medium-low speed. Stop frequently to scrape down the bowl sides to ensure even mixing.
- Form the balls: Once the mixture is smooth and well-combined, pinch off tablespoon-sized portions. Roll each piece between your palms to create smooth balls. Aim for about 20 grams each if you're using a scale.
- Chill the balls: Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill them in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes until they're firm. This step prevents the balls from falling apart during dipping.
- Prepare the chocolate: Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Use 50% power and stir every 30 seconds to prevent burning. The coconut oil helps thin the chocolate for easier dipping.
- Cool the chocolate: Let the melted chocolate cool to room temperature before dipping. Hot chocolate will melt the peanut butter balls.
- Dip the buckeyes: Insert a toothpick or wooden skewer about three-quarters of the way into each chilled ball. Dip each ball into the cooled chocolate, leaving about a quarter of the peanut butter exposed at the top.
- Remove excess chocolate: Gently tap the toothpick against the bowl's edge to remove excess chocolate. Place the dipped buckeyes on parchment paper and chill until the chocolate sets.
- Finish the buckeyes: Remove the toothpicks by twisting gently. Use a small knife to smooth over any holes left behind.
Notes
Storage: Store finished buckeyes in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for up to three months.
Pro Tips:
• Room temperature ingredients mix better. If your butter is too cold, cut it into slices and microwave in 5-second bursts at 50% power.
• Scraping the bowl is essential when adding powdered sugar to ensure even mixing.
• For firmer balls, reduce the butter by one tablespoon.
• Chill the balls thoroughly before dipping to prevent them from falling apart.
• You can substitute shortening or butter for coconut oil if needed.
• Room temperature ingredients mix better. If your butter is too cold, cut it into slices and microwave in 5-second bursts at 50% power.
• Scraping the bowl is essential when adding powdered sugar to ensure even mixing.
• For firmer balls, reduce the butter by one tablespoon.
• Chill the balls thoroughly before dipping to prevent them from falling apart.
• You can substitute shortening or butter for coconut oil if needed.