Buckeyes

I have two recipes for Buckeyes and I'm including them both here. If I ever do a bake-off, I'll update this post to include only the best recipe, but until then, take your pick. The first recipe is the one I've made the most simply because I've had it the longest. My friend, Stephanie, gave it to me when we lived in Ohio (The Buckeye State) over 20 years ago. But then a couple years ago, we received a recipe from The Ohio State University (The Buckeyes), and I was torn. I mean, it has to be good coming from Ohio State! Honestly, you can't go wrong either way. Buckeyes are always well received around here, but they're never around for long.

Buckeyes
Stephanie Rigby
2 c. creamy peanut butter
1 c. butter
5 c. powdered sugar
12 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tsp. vegetable shortening
        Combine peanut butter, butter and sugar. Mix well. Form dough into 1-inch balls. Melt chocolate chips and shortening. Dip peanut butter balls in chocolate with a toothpick. To make buckeyes, don’t dip the balls all the way; leave the top of the peanut butter ball showing. Place on waxed paper until chocolate is set.

Buckeyes
The Ohio State University
2 c. sifted powdered sugar
¾ c. smooth peanut butter
4 Tbsp. (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
½ tsp. vanilla
¼ tsp. salt
12 ounces semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
½ tsp. vegetable shortening
        Combine powdered sugar, peanut butter, butter, vanilla and salt in large mixing bowl. Beat well with wooden spoon or knead by hand until smooth and pliable but not sticky. Roll into 1-inch balls and transfer to baking sheet lined with waxed or parchment paper or silicone mat. Freeze until firm, 15-20 minutes.
       Melt chocolate and shortening, stirring often, until smooth.
        Insert thin wooden skewer or toothpick into the center of each ball and dip about ¾ of it into melted chocolate, leaving a small circle of peanut butter exposed at the top. Transfer to baking sheet. Remove toothpick and repeat dipping process with remaining peanut butter balls and chocolate, reheating chocolate if necessary. Makes 24 candies.