Granny's Famous Buckeyes
Buckeyes are handheld and portable – the perfect sweet treat for today’s hectic world. The age-old combination of salty peanut butter balls dipped in rich chocolate - it's truly a match made in heaven. Often associated with the state of Ohio, Buckeyes are a true classic Midwestern dessert.
Mix up your dessert tray with an assortment of buckeyes. Like in other dessert recipes that call for semisweet chocolate, like the Chocolate Cream Pie, other variations can be used with excellent results. Dark chocolate buckeyes, for example, are a delight!
Ingredients
1 pound (450 grams) powdered sugar 1 cup smooth peanut butter 2⁄3 cups softened butter 1⁄2 teaspoons vanilla 8 ounces (225 grams) semisweet bar chocolate
Method
- 1. In large bowl, combine the sugar, peanut butter, butter, and vanilla until well mixed. Roll into small balls.
- 2. Chop the chocolate bar and melt gradually in the microwave, stirring every 15 seconds.
- 3. Dip the balls into the melted chocolate, then set aside to allow the chocolate to cool and set. Buckeyes are traditionally dipped only halfway into the chocolate but Granny likes to cover them entirely!
Buckeyes: A Taste of the Midwest in Every Bite
Buckeyes, a delightful confection originating from the heartland of America, are a testament to the simple yet irresistible combination of peanut butter and chocolate. Named for their uncanny resemblance to the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree, these treats have become a symbol of Ohioan pride and Midwestern ingenuity.
The history of Buckeyes as a dessert is relatively recent, with their origins tracing back to the kitchens of home cooks in the 1960s or 1970s. The recipe was straightforward, calling for butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and chocolate chips. The ingredients were mixed, rolled into small balls, and then partially dipped in melted chocolate, leaving a circle of peanut butter visible. This gave the candies their characteristic appearance, reminiscent of the buckeye nut.
While the recipe is simple, the result is a treat that is rich in flavor and texture. The creamy peanut butter center contrasts beautifully with the smooth, rich chocolate coating, creating a dessert that is both satisfying and indulgent. Over time, these homemade candies gained popularity and began to appear in candy shops and mail-order catalogs, spreading the joy of Buckeyes beyond the borders of Ohio.
Today, making Buckeyes at home is a cherished tradition for many, especially during the holiday season. The process of making these candies can be a fun and rewarding activity, especially when shared with loved ones. And the end result, a batch of delicious Buckeyes, is a treat that can be enjoyed by all.
So, the next time you're in the mood for a sweet treat, why not try your hand at making Buckeyes? With their rich history, delicious flavor, and connection to Ohioan heritage, they're sure to be a hit.