Buckeye Balls
I am re-sharing this post that I did 15 years ago. This is a good one for Valentine’s Day, especially if you are snowed in like we are!
All you need to make them are these 4 ingredients:
1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup butter (1 stick), softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3-4 cups sifted confectioners sugar (If you prefer them less sweet, use 3 cups)
Line a baking sheet with wax paper (you may need two depending on the size).
In a stand mixer, mix all the ingredients until the mixture is creamy. (You can also do this with your hands).
Hint: I use a small ice-cream scooper to make uniform balls.
In a metal bowl over a pan of lightly simmering water, melt the following (stir occasionally until smooth, and remove from heat):
6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons shortening
(You may find that you will need more chocolate. If so, just add more chocolate chips and shortening accordingly).
Remove balls from refrigerator, insert a wooden toothpick into a ball, and dip into melted chocolate. Leave part of the ball uncovered for the buckeye effect. Return to wax paper, chocolate side down, and remove toothpick. The toothpick will leave a hole, use your finger to lightly smooth it over. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set. They can also be frozen.
