christmas dessert buckeyes

Introduction

When the holidays roll around, there’s something magical about the array of desserts that fill our kitchens. From gingerbread cookies to peppermint bark, the treats seem to come in endless varieties. But let’s be real—there’s one treat that never fails to steal the spotlight: Buckeyes. These peanut butter and chocolate candies are a classic holiday favorite, and I’m here to show you how to make them with a festive twist!

Buckeyes are named after the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree, and they’re the perfect combination of rich peanut butter and smooth chocolate. The holiday version is extra special, thanks to the seasonal touches—think of the soft peanut butter filling coated in a velvety chocolate shell, just like a little bite of holiday magic.

The best part? These little bites of joy are incredibly easy to make, requiring no baking, which makes them a stress-free addition to your holiday dessert spread. Whether you’re looking to surprise your family, bring a homemade treat to a holiday gathering, or simply indulge in a bite-sized dessert, these Christmas Buckeyes are a must-try.

I first fell in love with Buckeyes when I was a kid, and we made them every Christmas as a family tradition. My mom would always let me help roll the peanut butter balls, and I loved dipping them in the chocolate coating. That sweet, salty combination is one that’s hard to beat, and over the years, I’ve made this recipe my own. Let’s get to it, so you can make these delicious treats too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are a million reasons to love these Christmas Buckeyes, but here are a few that stand out:

• No-Bake Simplicity: You don’t need to worry about turning on the oven. Just mix, roll, and dip—and you’re ready to go! This is the kind of treat that’s perfect for busy holiday seasons when you need something quick but impressive.
• Perfect Balance of Flavors: The peanut butter filling is sweet and creamy, while the chocolate coating adds a rich, decadent contrast. It’s the perfect bite-sized dessert for satisfying all your sweet cravings.
• Holiday-Worthy: Buckeyes are a holiday tradition in many households, and their chocolate-and-peanut-butter combo fits right into the festive spirit. The smooth chocolate coating makes them look like little ornaments, ready to be gifted or enjoyed with family.
• Customizable: You can easily make this recipe your own by adding some fun twists—like a sprinkle of sea salt on top or even adding a drizzle of white chocolate. Whatever you choose, these Buckeyes will definitely be a hit.

Trust me, after trying this recipe, you’ll be hooked. They’re so addictive that you’ll be reaching for just one more…and another…until they’re all gone. But don’t worry—these are the kind of treats you’ll want to share with everyone, so it’s okay if you need a second batch!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 1 hour (includes chilling time)
• Servings: This recipe makes about 30 Buckeyes, depending on the size of the balls.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 160
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 18g
• Fat: 9g
• Sugar: 14g

Ingredients

For these delicious Christmas Buckeyes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy): The creamy base for your Buckeyes.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the peanut butter and helps form a firm filling.
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs: Gives the filling a little structure and texture.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and helps bind everything together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the peanut butter mixture.
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: The star of the coating that gives the Buckeyes their signature chocolate shell.
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional): Helps smooth out the chocolate coating and gives it a shiny finish.

I personally love using creamy peanut butter for a smooth and consistent filling, but if you like a little texture, crunchy peanut butter will give your Buckeyes a fun bite. The graham cracker crumbs help hold everything together and add a subtle flavor that pairs perfectly with the peanut butter. The coconut oil in the chocolate helps with the dipping process and ensures the chocolate hardens with a smooth, glossy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these Christmas Buckeyes is easier than you might think! Here’s how to do it:

1. Make the Peanut Butter Filling
   • Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and adding the peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
   • Using a hand mixer or a wooden spoon, mix everything together until it forms a smooth, creamy mixture. You want the consistency to be firm enough to roll into balls, but not too dry.
   • Add the graham cracker crumbs to the mixture and stir until everything is well combined. The graham crackers will help bind the filling and give it a little texture.
2. Roll the Peanut Butter Mixture into Balls
   • Now comes the fun part! Use your hands to roll the peanut butter mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Try to make them as uniform as possible so they dip evenly in the chocolate later.
   • Place each peanut butter ball onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper. It’s a good idea to use a spoon or small cookie scoop to keep the balls the same size.
   • Once the balls are rolled, pop the tray into the fridge for at least 30 minutes to chill. This helps them firm up so they don’t fall apart when you dip them in the chocolate.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Coating
   • While the peanut butter balls are chilling, it’s time to melt the chocolate. Add the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) to a heatproof bowl.
   • Melt the chocolate using a double boiler method (or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each) until it’s completely smooth and shiny. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize up.
4. Dip the Peanut Butter Balls in Chocolate
   • Once the peanut butter balls have chilled and the chocolate is melted, it’s time to dip!
   • Using a toothpick or skewer, carefully dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small portion of the peanut butter exposed at the top (this gives it that “buckeye” look!).
   • Tap the toothpick gently on the side of the bowl to remove any excess chocolate, and then return the ball to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Let the Chocolate Set
   • After dipping all of your peanut butter balls, let them chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate coating is fully hardened. This will give you that perfect crispy, shiny outer shell.
6. Optional Garnish
   • If you want to get a little fancy, you can drizzle some white chocolate over the top of each Buckeye for a fun contrast. Just melt some white chocolate chips and use a fork to drizzle it over the top in a zig-zag motion.

How to Serve

These Christmas Buckeyes are so versatile when it comes to serving. You can:

• Gift Them: Arrange them in a cute holiday tin or box to gift to friends and family.
• Serve as a Dessert: Add them to your holiday dessert table alongside other treats like sugar cookies, gingerbread men, and peppermint bark.
• Snack on Them: Keep them in the fridge for an easy snack throughout the holiday season. They’re the perfect grab-and-go treat when you need a sweet pick-me-up.
• Pair with Hot Chocolate: These are also great to enjoy alongside a steaming mug of hot cocoa—perfect for a cozy winter evening.

Additional Tips

• Chill the Peanut Butter Balls: Don’t skip the chilling step! If the peanut butter mixture is too soft, the balls will fall apart when dipped in chocolate.
• Use Good Quality Chocolate: The chocolate coating is what makes Buckeyes so special, so choose a good-quality chocolate. Semi-sweet chocolate chips work best, but you can also use milk chocolate if you prefer.
• Make Ahead: These Buckeyes can be made up to a week in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh.
• Add a Crunch: If you love extra texture, mix in some chopped peanuts or pretzels into the peanut butter filling for a salty crunch.
• Rolling Tip: If your hands get too sticky while rolling the balls, lightly grease them with a bit of vegetable oil or dampen them with water. It makes the process a little smoother.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan: Use a dairy-free peanut butter (make sure it’s just peanuts and salt) and substitute coconut oil or dairy-free chocolate chips for the coating.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but make sure to check the label on the graham crackers if you want to avoid any gluten-containing ingredients.
• Add a Twist: Try adding a bit of peppermint extract to the peanut butter mixture for a holiday twist, or drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Christmas Dessert Buckeyes

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth peanut butter?

Yes, you can absolutely use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth! While the texture of the Buckeyes will be a bit different due to the added crunch, it will still taste delicious. The choice is really up to your preference for a smooth or textured filling.

2. How do I store Christmas Buckeyes?

Store your Buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They’ll last for about a week, but they’re so delicious, they might not last that long! If you need to store them for a longer period, you can also freeze them. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

3. Can I make these Buckeyes ahead of time?

Yes, Buckeyes can be made ahead of time. In fact, they store well, so making them a day or two in advance is perfect. Just be sure to keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. You can also prepare the peanut butter mixture a day in advance and chill it in the fridge before rolling and dipping.

4. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate for the coating?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate will make the Buckeyes sweeter and creamier, while semi-sweet chocolate gives them a slightly more balanced, less sugary taste. Feel free to use whichever type of chocolate you prefer, or experiment with a mix of both for a custom flavor!

5. What can I do if the chocolate coating is too thick?

If the chocolate is too thick to dip, you can add a small amount of coconut oil or vegetable oil to thin it out. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more if needed until you reach a smooth, dip-able consistency.

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Conclusion

These Christmas Buckeyes are the perfect holiday treat—easy to make, delicious, and sure to impress. Whether you’re making them for your family, a party, or to share with friends, they’ll be a hit. With their creamy peanut butter center and smooth chocolate coating, these little bites of heaven are guaranteed to bring joy to your holiday season. Don’t forget to try different variations to make this recipe your own, and have fun experimenting with different flavors! Happy holidays and happy baking!