Buckeye Balls

In Ohio, especially during football season, buckeye balls are a very popular candy♥️. In fact, Ohio and buckeye balls pretty much go together ~ just like peanut butter and chocolate. They were named, of course, for their resemblance to the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree. 

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter 
• 1/2 cup butter, softened 
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 
• 1 16-ounce package confectioners sugar 
• 1 6-ounce package semi-sweet chocolate chips 
• 2 Tbsp solid shortening 

Line cookie sheet with wax paper. Mix peanut butter, margarine, vanilla and sugar until smooth. Shape into 1" balls. Place on baking sheet and refrigerate until firm, at least 10 minutes.

In the meantime, melt chocolate chips and shortening over simmering water on top of double boiler. Stir until melted and smooth (can also use microwave). When smooth, pour a portion into small cup. 

Remove balls from refrigerator. Dip each ball in chocolate mixture so 3/4 of ball is covered, using a toothpick. Place back on wax paper. Smooth over toothpick hole for better appearance. Add more chocolate to small cup as needed. 

Refrigerate 1 hour or until chocolate hardens. Store in plastic containers or bags, using wax paper if layered.