These addictively yummy no-bake chocolate peanut butter buckeye balls are easy to make and taste similar to homemade Reese’s peanut butter cups!

Although the holidays have come and gone for 2018, I must share this recipe for chocolate peanut butter buckeye balls~a yummy no bake candy that tastes like homemade Reese’s peanut butter cups.

Although most of us are likely on the road to healthier eating for 2019, these buckeye balls are a good recipe to have on hand for a party. Place the buckeye balls in a bowl or on a pretty plate, and they’ll probably disappear before the end of the night.

What are buckeye balls?

If you are older than 40, you’ve most likely heard of buckeye balls~a popular candy especially during the holiday season.  The no-bake candy is similar in flavor and texture to Reese’s peanut butter cups.

Buckeye balls are sweet peanut butter insides dipped in chocolate. Some cooks dip the balls partially in chocolate so that they look similar to eyeballs (thus the name buckeye balls).

How do you make chocolate peanut butter buckeye balls?

Simply mix peanut butter, butter, vanilla and powdered sugar until a soft dough forms. Roll into balls and place on a parchment lined baking sheet. Freeze 30 minutes or until firm.  Melt chocolate chips and shortening in the microwave stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Dip balls into chocolate; allow to cool until firm.

Can I use chocolate bark instead of chocolate chips?

You may use chocolate bark in place of chocolate chips; if so, omit the shortening. I much prefer semisweet chocolate chips mixed with shortening, but this is personal taste.

How do you coat buckeye balls in chocolate?

The easiest way to coat your peanut butter balls in chocolate is to stick a toothpick into each ball and lowering it into a bowl of melted chocolate. This works best if your peanut butter balls are very cold, so make sure you freeze or chill them first.

Can buckeye balls be dipped in white chocolate?

Buckeye balls can be made using white chocolate bark (an no shortening) or white chocolate chips and shortening. I want to try making the white chocolate version to place alongside these strawberry brownies to serve as Valentine’s Day treats.

Can buckeye balls be made ahead and frozen?

Buckeye balls can be made ahead. They keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to two weeks. Thaw buckeye balls at room temperature. Condensation is natural and does not affect flavor.

Although my chocolate peanut butter buckeye balls are plain and simple, those of you with more creativity can decorate these to look gorgeous on a serving platter. I’ve seen silver and gold dusted buckeye balls during the holidays that were truly works of art:-)

If you want a “taste like Reese’s cups” treat that doesn’t require dipping, you might want to try these No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter “Lunchroom” Bars. If you are 50 or older, you know exactly what “lunchroom bars” are LOL.  They were the most popular dessert at my school when I was younger. These taste identical!

If you make these buckeye balls, please leave comments below and let us know how they turned out. I love hearing from readers and welcome your feedback!

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As always, thanks so much for stopping by. Wishing you a joyful, blessed and savvy day!!!