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Easy No-Bake Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Balls (Classic Buckeye Candy)

A plate of chocolate covered peanut butter balls, one cut open to reveal the creamy peanut butter center.

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Make these classic peanut butter balls, often called buckeye candy, with just a few simple ingredients. This no-bake recipe is perfect for quick holiday treats or satisfying your sweet tooth anytime. They taste just like homemade Reese’s balls!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips (for coating)
  • 1 tablespoon shortening or coconut oil (optional, for smoother dipping)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix with an electric mixer or by hand until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined.
  2. Roll the peanut butter mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should get approximately 30 to 36 balls. Place the rolled balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Chill the peanut butter balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until firm. This step is important for easy dipping.
  4. Prepare the chocolate coating. Place the chocolate chips and shortening (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
  5. Dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small circle of peanut butter exposed at the top to resemble a buckeye nut. Use a toothpick or dipping tool for this.
  6. Return the coated peanut butter balls to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Allow the chocolate to set completely at room temperature, or speed up the process by chilling them in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.
  8. Store your finished chocolate peanut butter balls in an airtight container.

Notes

  • For the best texture, use creamy peanut butter that is not the natural, oily kind.
  • These peanut butter balls freeze well. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
  • If you want a slightly healthier option, you can substitute some of the powdered sugar with oat flour, but this will change the classic texture.

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