I love quick treats that taste like a hug. Healthy Buckeyes are my go-to when I want something sweet but simple and a little bit better for me. I often make a batch when friends stop by and we need a fast dessert.
Dad James always asks for the biggest one. Mom Eva and Sister Jennifer both say they are better than the store bought kind.
Your Ingredients List
- 1 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
My Go-To Equipment
I use a medium bowl and a wooden spoon. A small scoop helps me shape even balls. I also like a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and a microwave-safe bowl for the chocolate.
The Simple Steps to Follow
- Mix peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar slowly and stir until combined.
- Roll the mixture into small balls and place them on the sheet.
- Freeze the balls for about 30 minutes.
- Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil until smooth.
- Dip each frozen ball into the chocolate and coat well.
- Return coated balls to the sheet and chill until chocolate hardens.
- Serve and enjoy the Healthy Buckeyes.
Healthy Twists on a Classic
I swap half the powdered sugar for oat flour to cut sugar and add fiber. I sometimes use almond butter to change the flavor. If you love snacks like these, try my Healthy Baked Churro Bites for a cinnamon twist.
Serving Suggestions From My Table
I place a few buckeyes on a small plate with fresh fruit. They make a nice nibble next to tea or coffee. They also pair well with savory bites like my Healthy BLT Wraps with Secret Sauce for a party spread.
Getting It Just Right
Keep the balls firm before dipping. If the chocolate gets too thick, warm it a few seconds more. Work quickly once they are out of the freezer so the center stays cold and the chocolate sets neat.
How to Store Leftovers
Place buckeyes in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 1 week. For longer life, freeze them for up to 3 months and thaw a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy Every Moment
I take a deep breath and savor the little wins when a recipe turns out well. These Healthy Buckeyes bring a smile every time.
A Few Common Questions
How do I make Healthy Buckeyes less sweet?
I cut the powdered sugar by one third and add a bit more peanut butter. Using dark chocolate with higher cacao also helps lower the sweet taste.
Can I make Healthy Buckeyes nut free?
Yes. I swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter and watch for cross contamination. The texture is slightly different but still very good.
How long do Healthy Buckeyes need to chill before dipping?
I freeze the balls for about 30 minutes. They should be cold and firm so the chocolate sets quickly and the centers stay soft.
Print
Healthy Buckeyes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and healthier take on the classic buckeye treat, perfect for a quick sweet snack.
Ingredients
- 1 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
Instructions
- Mix peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar slowly and stir until combined.
- Roll the mixture into small balls and place them on the sheet.
- Freeze the balls for about 30 minutes.
- Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil until smooth.
- Dip each frozen ball into the chocolate and coat well.
- Return coated balls to the sheet and chill until chocolate hardens.
- Serve and enjoy the Healthy Buckeyes.
Notes
Keep the balls firm before dipping. If the chocolate gets too thick, warm it a few seconds more. Work quickly once they are out of the freezer so the center stays cold and the chocolate sets neat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: buckeyes, healthy dessert, sweet treat, no-bake dessert, peanut butter