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Creamy Buckeye Peanut Butter Balls

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These creamy buckeye peanut butter balls feature a melt-in-your-mouth peanut butter center wrapped in a thin shell of rich chocolate. Quick and easy to make, they’re perfect for holiday trays, potlucks, or gifting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (Jif or similar, not natural)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil (optional, for chocolate coating)

Instructions

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine peanut butter and softened butter. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
  2. Add vanilla extract and salt. Gradually beat in powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, until the mixture is thick but creamy. If dry, add a teaspoon of milk or more butter.
  3. Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of filling and roll into balls between your palms. Place each ball on a wax paper-lined baking sheet. You should get about 30 balls. If sticky, chill mixture for 10 minutes before rolling.
  4. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to firm up the balls.
  5. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and shortening or coconut oil. Microwave on 50% power in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until smooth and glossy. Alternatively, use a double boiler.
  6. Using a toothpick, dip each chilled ball about 2/3 of the way into the melted chocolate, leaving a small circle of peanut butter showing on top. Let excess chocolate drip off, then place back on wax paper.
  7. Chill the dipped balls in the fridge for 15–30 minutes, until the chocolate is firm. To cover the toothpick hole, gently smooth it over with your fingertip.
  8. Transfer the buckeye balls to a serving plate or airtight container. If adding sea salt, sprinkle on top while chocolate is still wet.

Notes

Use regular creamy peanut butter for best texture; natural peanut butter is too oily. Chill the balls before dipping for easy handling. Add shortening or coconut oil to chocolate for a glossy, crack-free shell. For vegan or nut-free adaptations, use sunflower seed butter and dairy-free chocolate. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: buckeye balls, peanut butter balls, homemade candy, chocolate peanut butter, holiday treats, gluten-free dessert, easy candy recipe

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/creamy-buckeye-peanut-butter-balls-recipe-easy-homemade-candy/