Ingredients:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups (300g) creamy peanut butter (not natural)
- 6 cups (720g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) salt
- 12 ounces (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable shortening (Crisco), optional
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt to the butter-peanut butter mixture, mixing on low speed until combined. The mixture will be thick.
- Roll the peanut butter mixture into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Refrigerate the peanut butter balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This prevents them from falling apart during dipping.
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave. If using a double boiler, ensure the water doesn't touch the bottom of the bowl. If microwaving, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Stir in vegetable shortening for a smoother consistency (optional).
- Using a fork or dipping tools, carefully dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving a small portion of the peanut butter showing at the top to resemble a Buckeye nut.
- Place the dipped Buckeyes back on the lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is firm.
- Remove the Buckeyes from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.