Buckeyes!

For me, Buckeyes are one of the best homemade candies.  I am probably partial to them, because I love anything peanut butter and chocolate!   The obvious reason they are called "Buckeyes" is because they resemble the nut or buckeye from the Buckeye Tree.   The state of Ohio is known for their abundance of Buckeyes...trees and candies! 

These are very easy to make.  The only challenging part might be dipping them, but it's not really all that difficult if you follow our directions.   Here is what you will need:

1 cup butter (softened)

2 cups creamy peanut butter

1  1/2 lbs. powdered sugar

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup (4 oz.) paraffin for candy making

Mix together the butter, peanut butter and powdered sugar.   Roll into balls about the size of a buckeye.   Place on a parchment lined baking sheet.  Most recipes say to place them in the refrigerator overnight to chill.   We actually froze them overnight, which made them much easier to dip. 

The next day, melt the chocolate and paraffin in the top of a double boiler.  Keep the chocolate mixture over the warm water to keep it warm and thinner.   You might need to stir it every now and then.  You will need to move fairly quick and get them all dipped before they thaw.  If they start to warm up, they are harder to dip.

 Put a toothpick in each buckeye and dip in the chocolate about 3/4 of the way up, leaving the top uncovered to get the 'buckeye' look.    After you dip each one place it back on parchment or wax paper so the chocolate hardens.   Keep refrigerated  in an airtight container when not serving! 



 These are a wonderful addition to a candy tray or for gifts!