BEST Buckeye Candy Recipe (Peanut Butter & Chocolate Candy!) (2024)

When it comes to dessert I’m certainly not picky, but if I had to choose a dessert to put at the top of my list of favorites, it would be nearly anything that has a combination of peanut butter and chocolate. So it is no surprise that I’ve loved buckeye candy since I was a little kid.

What is a Buckeye Candy?

Buckeyes got their name from their resemblance to the nut that grows on the Ohio buckeye tree which is the state tree of Ohio. That’s where the similarity between the two ends though — buckeye nuts are poisonous while these candies are just addictive (in the best way possible)!

Buckeye candies originated in Ohio where more than 6 million of them are eaten each year (many at Ohio State University games, for sure) but they’re popular throughout the midwestern states in the US.

Some liken buckeye candies to chocolate-dipped peanut butter balls while other bakers say they are more like Reese’s peanut butter cups. Essentially, they have a smooth, sweet peanut butter filling that’s partially coated with chocolate (leaving some of the peanut butter exposed).

Outside of their flavor, what I really love about these candies is that they’re so incredibly easy to make as well as to transport if you want to take them to a party.

Why you’ll love this Buckeyes Recipe

• Easy – In just a few quick steps these come together in nearly no time. Most of the prep time is involved with chilling them before and after dipping the peanut butter mixture in the chocolate.
• Portable – These are the perfect treat to take to picnics, parties, and tailgates (like Ohio State fans do).
• Versatile – Adults and kiddos both enjoy these peanut butter chocolate candies so they are as popular at cookouts as they are at children’s birthday parties.

Buckeye Recipe ingredients

The ingredient list is simple, which is probably why these tasty holiday classics are such a winner in so many homes!

• Creamy peanut butter – Be sure to use creamy, not natural smooth peanut butter. You can try using crunchy peanut butter for textural purposes but it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to get the chocolate to coat it smoothly for a pretty presentation.
• Butter – You can use either regular or non-dairy butter.
• Vanilla extract – I recommend using pure vanilla extract rather than imitation.
• Salt – This will bring out the flavors of the other ingredients. If you can like a salty/sweet treat you can experiment with adding more to the peanut butter mixture or sprinkle a bit on the chocolate before it sets.
• Powdered sugar – Make sure to use confectioners’ sugar and not granulated. This gives the mixture its silky smooth texture.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips – You can swap these out for other varieties but this is my favorite to use.
• Butter – Make sure to use unsalted butter and to soften it ahead of time.

How to make Buckeyes

1. In a large bowl of a stand mixer with a paddle attachment (or use an electric mixer), combine peanut butter, butter, and salt.
2. Mix together on high speed until all ingredients are incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
3. Turn the mixer to low and slowly add the powdered sugar in intervals until all of the sugar is combined.
4. Using a measuring spoon, small cookie scoop, or melon baller, portion out the mixture.
5. Shape the peanut butter dough into small balls and smooth it by rolling it with your hands. Using cooking spray or a light oil (like coconut oil) on your hands will help to make the balls smooth.
6. Place the balls on the baking sheet prepared with parchment paper or wax paper.

7. While the balls are chilling in the freezer, melt the chocolate chips with the butter. Use a double boiler on low heat.
8. You can also microwave them in intervals, stirring each time until they are completely melted.Be sure to use a microwave-safe bowl
9. Pour the chocolate into a medium bowl suitable for dipping the balls in.
10. Use a skewer or a toothpick to pierce each ball.
11. Next, dip each into the bowl of melted chocolate, covering about half of the peanut butter ball. There should be a circle of peanut butter still exposed at the top of each ball.
12. Tap any excess chocolate into the bowl.
13. Set each ball back on the parchment-lined cookie sheet. Ensure that the chocolate side is down.
14. Allow the candies to set in the refrigerator.

Peanut Butter Buckeyes variations

You’ll love these decadent buckeyes as is, but you’ll love them even more when you make them your own.

• Nut butters and substitutes – Almond, cashew, or tahini are all viable substitutes for peanut butter.
• Chips – Try dark chocolate, white chocolate, or milk chocolate chips instead.
• Heat – For a grown-up flavor, add some cayenne or crushed red pepper to add some heat to the sweetness.
• Sea salt – If you’re a fan of salty/sweet combinations just sprinkle a little sea salt on these to make them incredible.
• Sprinkles – Add some color by sprinkling colored jimmies on top.
• Bacon – Impart some savory flavor with finely chopped (and cooked) bacon.
• Powdered sugar – Sift just a smidgeon of powdered sugar for a fun presentation.
• Graham crackers– Crush graham crackers and roll the candies in them after dipping (or sprinkle over top).
• Chocolate – Switch up the kind of chocolate that you use by using milk or dark chocolate instead.
• Make Them Into Milkshakes! – Ok so this isn’t the same recipe, but I figured if you are here loving PB and chocolate like me, then you’d also be into the buckeye milkshake.

Buckeyes Candy storage & make ahead instructions

Buckeye candy in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 month; Freezer for up to 2-3 months; Not recommended to keep them at room temperature.

Make-Ahead: You can make the peanut butter filling ahead of time and leave it in the freezer until you are ready to dip it in chocolate.

Refrigerator: Store buckeyes in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 1 month.

Freezer: Buckeye candies will remain fresh in the freezer for 2-3 months when properly stored in a freezer-safe container or wrapped well in freezer bags.

How long are Buckeyes good for in the fridge?

Buckeyes can typically be stored in the refrigerator for about 2 weeks, but are best and most moist if eaten within the first week of making.

The specific shelf life may vary depending on the ingredients used and the storage conditions. To ensure the best quality and taste, it’s recommended to store them in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to prevent moisture and air exposure. If you plan to keep them for an extended period, you can also freeze Buckeyes for up to 2 to 3 months.

Do Buckeyes have to be refrigerated?

Buckeyes do not need to be refrigerated if you plan to eat them within a few hours of preparing, but if you are making them ahead of time, they will stay freshest in the fridge.
If storing at room temperature, place them in an airtight container in a cool place out of direct sunlight.

Can I freeze Buckeyes?

Yes, if you plan to keep them for an extended period, you can also freeze Buckeyes for up to 2 to 3 months.

More Peanut Butter Desserts

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookie Sandwiches
• Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
• Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars