Sometimes, the simplest recipes deliver the most nostalgic and satisfying results. These homemade peanut butter balls, often known as Buckeye Balls, are a timeless no-bake dessert that combines the rich, creamy taste of peanut butter with the sweetness of powdered sugar and the indulgence of melted chocolate. Whether you grew up enjoying these at holiday parties or you’re just discovering them now, they’re the perfect bite-sized treat for kids and adults alike.
This recipe is incredibly beginner-friendly and requires minimal ingredients, yet the results are impressive enough to serve at a gathering or gift in a festive tin. They’re easy to prepare ahead of time, store well in the freezer, and deliver a delightful balance between salty and sweet. If you’re someone who enjoys the classic pairing of chocolate and peanut butter, you’ll likely be making these on repeat. Perfect for parties, after-dinner treats, or just when you need a quick dessert that doesn’t require an oven, these little balls of goodness are always a hit.
Ingredients (Makes approximately 36 balls):
• 16 oz creamy peanut butter
• 1 lb powdered (confectioners) sugar
• ¾ cup butter (softened)
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (enough for coating)
Instructions:
Line a baking sheet with wax paper and set it aside.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, and softened butter. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Roll the mixture into small balls using your hands and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Transfer to the freezer and chill for about 20 minutes.
While the balls are chilling, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips using a double boiler or by placing them in a metal bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir occasionally until smooth and fully melted.
Remove the chilled peanut butter balls from the freezer. Insert a toothpick into each ball and dip them partially into the melted chocolate, leaving a small portion of the peanut butter exposed at the top (this gives them the “Buckeye” look).
Place the dipped balls back on the wax paper-lined tray and return them to the freezer for another 30 minutes or until the chocolate is set.
Once firm, remove the toothpicks and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to serve.
Nutritional Insights & Dietary Considerations:
These treats are high in protein and healthy fats thanks to the peanut butter, but they also contain a generous amount of sugar and fat from the butter and chocolate. They are rich and indulgent, so a little goes a long way. This recipe is not suitable for those with peanut allergies, and it is not vegan unless substitutions like dairy-free butter and chocolate are used. Those monitoring sugar intake should enjoy in moderation or consider sugar-free alternatives.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring:
Did you try a crunchy peanut butter version? Or maybe add a dash of sea salt on top? We’d love to hear your twist on this classic treat. Drop your experience in the comments, share this recipe with friends, and let others in on this chocolatey peanut butter goodness!