Ohio Buckeyes
Delicious chocolate-covered peanut butter balls with crunchy Rice Krispies, perfect for parties or sweet snacks, appealing to peanut butter and chocolate lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together 1 stick Imperial oleo, one pound sifted powdered sugar, 2 cups crunchy peanut butter, and 3 cups crushed Rice Krispies.
- Crush Rice Krispies using a rolling pin and a Ziploc bag if desired.
- Roll all ingredients into small balls about the size of a half dollar and refrigerate overnight.
- Next day, melt 1/3 bar paraffin and 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips over hot water.
- Dip each ball in melted chocolate and drain on waxed paper or a wire rack.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, make sure to use a creamy peanut butter. If you prefer a sweeter treat, consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the flavors. If you can't find paraffin, you can substitute with a small amount of vegetable shortening instead. It's important to let the balls chill thoroughly before dipping them in chocolate to ensure they hold their shape.
Serving Suggestions
Ohio Buckeyes are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee for a special treat. They also make a fantastic addition to dessert platters or as a sweet bite alongside your favorite holiday treats. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Egg Nog Non-Alcoholic.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Ohio Buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy them after freezing, let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ohio Buckeyes contains roughly 1217 calories, with 6g protein, 265g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (54% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 634mg per serving (28% 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 smooth peanut butter instead of crunchy?
Yes, you can substitute smooth peanut butter for crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a creamier texture. Keep in mind that the overall flavor will remain similar, but the texture will be different. If you enjoy the crunch, try adding chopped peanuts to the mixture for a similar effect.
What can I use instead of paraffin?
If you don't have paraffin wax, you can use vegetable shortening as a substitute. It will help achieve a smooth chocolate coating without altering the flavor significantly. Just melt it along with the chocolate chips for a silky finish when dipping the Buckeyes.
How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking?
To prevent the chocolate from cracking, ensure that the chocolate is tempered properly and not overheated. Mixing in a small amount of vegetable oil or shortening can also help create a more flexible coating. Allow the dipped Buckeyes to cool at room temperature instead of refrigerating them immediately to avoid temperature shock.
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).