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My grandmother's kitchen is where these buckeye candies take me back to. Every bite offers sheer delight with that velvety peanut butter inside covered by decadent chocolate. I've tweaked her original method over time and now share this perfected version with my family.
Heartwarming Candy
What makes buckeyes so wonderful is how straightforward they are—just a handful of items come together to make something amazing. My unique twist on this sweet-salty combo makes them utterly irresistible. People always ask me how to make them after their first taste.
Your Ingredients
- Smooth peanut butter don't use natural versions they're too runny
- Unsalted butter completely softened
- Rich brown sugar for extra flavor
- Confectioners sugar properly sifted
- Good chocolate for coating I prefer melting discs
Let's Create Wonders
- Create the Filling
- Whip peanut butter and butter till fluffy then add brown sugar salt and vanilla until well combined
- Sugar Addition
- Gradually add confectioners sugar until you reach just the right consistency
- Form Your Treats
- Create small balls then put them on wax paper in the fridge to set
- Prepare the Coating
- Gently melt chocolate stirring constantly for perfect smoothness
- Finishing Strokes
- Dip each chilled ball leaving the classic top exposed then smooth over any marks and let them harden
Handy Hints
Don't dump all your sugar in at once or you'll end up with crumbles. Getting exact amounts with my food scale works wonders every time. Really mix everything thoroughly and you'll find the rolling part goes much smoother.
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Storage Smarts
Your buckeyes can sit out for a day or two, or stay fresh in the fridge up to two weeks. They'll keep for months in the freezer but honestly, they'll vanish long before then. They taste great whether cool from storage or at room temp.
Tasty Traditions
Buckeyes got their name from Ohio where they look like nuts from the state tree. These little treats now bring joy everywhere they go. It's funny how the most basic treats often become family favorites.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why skip natural peanut butter?
The texture turns out smoother with regular peanut butter, and it doesn't separate as much.
- → What does coconut oil do?
It softens the chocolate for dipping. Skipping it means thicker chocolate texture.
- → How long do these last?
Good for 2 days on the counter, 2-3 weeks in the fridge, or months in the freezer.
- → Why freeze before dipping?
Frozen peanut butter balls are sturdier and won't fall apart during dipping.
- → How do I fix sticky dough?
Sprinkle in powdered sugar until the dough is easy to roll.