Buckeyes(Peanut Butter Balls)
Creamy peanut butter balls coated in rich chocolate create a sweet treat perfect for parties, holidays, or gifting, appealing to peanut butter lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix peanut butter and margarine with powdered sugar until smooth.
- Form the mixture into balls about the size of chestnuts.
- Refrigerate the balls overnight.
- Slowly melt semi-sweet chocolate chips and paraffin wax together in a double boiler.
- Using a toothpick, dip cold peanut butter balls into the melted chocolate until fully covered.
- Drop the coated balls onto wax paper to set.
- Allow the chocolate coating to set completely.
- Touch up any spots left by the toothpick with a dab of melted chocolate.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother mixture, ensure that the margarine is softened before mixing with the peanut butter and powdered sugar. If you want a richer chocolate flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. Additionally, if you prefer a creamier texture, try substituting some of the peanut butter with almond butter. Chilling the balls longer can help them maintain their shape when dipped.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Buckeyes as a delightful dessert at parties or gatherings. They pair wonderfully with coffee or hot chocolate, making them a perfect treat for colder months. For a festive touch, place them in decorative tins or on a dessert platter alongside other treats like Touchdown Chocolate Bars. They also make a great gift during the holidays when packaged nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To maintain their freshness, you can layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. These treats can also be frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before serving to preserve their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buckeyes(Peanut Butter Balls) contains roughly 2307 calories, with 87g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 181g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (173% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (133% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (91% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1756mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?
While you can use natural peanut butter, it may change the texture of the Buckeyes. Natural peanut butter tends to be more oily and less sweet, so you might need to adjust the sugar to achieve the desired flavor and consistency. It's best to use a creamy variety for the best results.
What can I use instead of paraffin wax?
If you prefer not to use paraffin wax, you can substitute with coconut oil or shortening when melting the chocolate. This will help thin the chocolate, making it easier to dip the peanut butter balls while still providing a nice finish. Just be mindful that the flavor may slightly change.
How can I make these gluten-free?
This Buckeyes recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it primarily uses peanut butter, sugar, and chocolate. However, always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free, especially the chocolate chips. This way, you can confidently serve them to guests with gluten sensitivities.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).