Buckeye Balls

I am re-sharing this post that I did 15 years ago. This is a good one for Valentine's Day, especially if you are snowed in like we are!

Why are they called buckeye balls? Because they look just like the nuts of the Ohio Buckeye Tree (Aesculus glabra). Some people just call them "peanut butter balls" which is basically what they are.

All you need to make them are these 4 ingredients:

1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup butter (1 stick), softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3-4 cups sifted confectioners sugar (If you prefer them less sweet, use 3 cups)






Line a baking sheet with wax paper (you may need two depending on the size).

In a stand mixer, mix all the ingredients until the mixture is creamy. (You can also do this with your hands).  

Shape into balls using 2 teaspoons of dough for each ball. (You can experiment with the size you want - some people like them larger, some like them smaller.) Place on prepared pan, and refrigerate for several hours or you can freeze them for 30 minutes. (If you are freezing them, it will be helpful to stick a toothpick in them now)





Hint: I use a small ice-cream scooper to make uniform balls.



In a metal bowl over a pan of lightly simmering water, melt the following (stir occasionally until smooth, and remove from heat):

6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons shortening

(You may find that you will need more chocolate. If so, just add more chocolate chips and shortening accordingly).




Remove balls from refrigerator, insert a wooden toothpick into a ball, and dip into melted chocolate. Leave part of the ball uncovered for the buckeye effect. Return to wax paper, chocolate side down, and remove toothpick. The toothpick will leave a hole, use your finger to lightly smooth it over. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set. They can also be frozen.