Irresistible Buckeye Cookies: A No-Bake Peanut Butter & Chocolate Treat
Buckeye cookies are a classic no-bake treat that combines the dreamy duo of peanut butter and chocolate. Named after the buckeye nut, these cookies mimic its iconic look with their partially dipped chocolate coating and creamy peanut butter center. Whether you’re making them for a holiday dessert tray, a party, or just a quick indulgence, these cookies are as easy as they are irresistible.
Buckeye Cookies
This recipe is perfect for peanut butter lovers! The creamy filling is rich yet balanced by the smooth dark chocolate coating, making each bite pure bliss. Plus, with just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these sweet treats in no time.
If you’re looking for a no-fuss dessert that wows, Buckeye cookies are your answer. They’re easy to make, fun to share, and always a hit with kids and adults alike. Keep reading for tips and tricks to nail this recipe every time!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
- No Baking Required: Perfect for when you want a quick dessert without turning on the oven.
- Classic Flavor Combo: Peanut butter and chocolate are a match made in dessert heaven.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make them ahead of time and store them in the freezer for last-minute treats.
Buckeye cookies, also known simply as Buckeyes, are a beloved treat with roots in Ohio, where they are named after the buckeye nut, the state tree’s seed. The buckeye nut is small, round, and dark brown with a light tan spot, resembling the appearance of the peanut butter and chocolate candy.
Origins of Buckeye Cookies
The exact origin of Buckeye cookies isn’t documented, but they are closely associated with Midwest traditions, particularly in Ohio. These no-bake treats became popular in the mid-20th century, as home cooks began to experiment with peanut butter and chocolate combinations, inspired by the success of Reese’s candies.
They gained prominence as a festive holiday treat, thanks to their simple ingredients and resemblance to the buckeye nut. Many Ohio State University fans have also embraced Buckeye cookies as a gameday tradition, tying them to the university’s mascot, Brutus Buckeye.
Why They Became Popular
Buckeye cookies’ popularity grew due to their ease of preparation, rich flavor, and nostalgic charm. With no baking required, they became a go-to recipe for busy families during the holidays. Today, they remain a cherished dessert for Christmas cookie trays, potlucks, and football parties, cementing their place as an iconic American confection.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Buckeye Cookies
- Use Creamy Peanut Butter: For the smoothest texture, stick to regular creamy peanut butter instead of natural varieties with oil separation.
- Chill the Dough: Freezing the peanut butter balls ensures they hold their shape when dipped in chocolate.
- Shake Off Excess Chocolate: Gently shake the dipped balls to remove excess chocolate and keep the coating neat.
- Double Boiler for Melting: Use a double boiler to melt the chocolate wafers slowly and avoid burning.
- Fix the Toothpick Hole: Smooth over the toothpick hole with a fingertip or a dab of chocolate for a flawless finish.
FAQ’s
Can I use milk or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes! You can substitute with milk or white chocolate melting wafers if you prefer a sweeter coating.
How do I store Buckeye cookies?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the peanut butter balls and freeze them. When ready to serve, dip them in chocolate for a freshly made appearance.
Check out my other cookie recipes!!
Buckeye Cookies
delicious peanut butter fudge balls dipped in chocolate
Ingredients
- 12 oz creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 C unsalted sweet cream butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 C powdered sugar
- 1 bag of ghiradelli dark chocolate melting wafers
Instructions
- In a standing mixer, beat peanut butter and butter until creamy and combined. Stir in vanilla. Add powdered sugar and beat on low speed until smooth.
- Using a small ice cream scooper, scoop dough into your hands and roll into 1 inch balls and place in the freezer for at least 1 hour.
- Using a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate melting wafers,
- Using a tooth pick, poke the peanut butter balls in the center and carefully pick it up, using the toothpick, dip the peanut butter balls 3/4 of the way into the chocolate
- Carefully shake off any excess chocolate
- Place onto cookie sheet
- Repeat steps with remaining peanut butter balls
- Once dipped, set aside for chocolate to harden
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 191Saturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 66mgCarbohydrates: 20gSugar: 19gProtein: 3g
I’m Melissa, the imaginative force behind Sparkles to Sprinkles, where creativity comes to life, and sprinkles of joy are scattered generously. Melissa is a proud Jersey girl who found love with a New York boy. As a mom to four wonderful boys and a few fur babies, her journey into the world of blogging began after making the life-changing decision to stay home and raise her children. Previously a dedicated workaholic, Melissa’s blog became her creative outlet and passion project. Inspired by her mother-in-law, a masterful cook renowned for her delicious home-cooked meals and legendary holiday feasts (think mouthwatering sausage stuffing), Melissa honed her culinary skills through a combination of family recipes and countless cooking classes. She often attended these classes with her son Michael, who shared her enthusiasm for cooking from a young age. Melissa’s love for learning extends beyond familiar cuisines, as she enjoys exploring international recipes in hands-on cooking classes. Her blog features a diverse array of recipes, showcasing her expertise with various kitchen appliances such as the Instant Pot, air fryer, Slow Cooker, Ninja Foodi, Instant Vortex Plus, and more. Join Melissa on her culinary adventures as she shares tried-and-true family favorites alongside exciting new discoveries!
I made these cookies let me tell you they were amazing 🙂