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.