Buckeyes (Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls)

 Yields: About 24 Buckeyes

Prep time: 20 minutes

Chill time: 2 hours

Ingredients:

 * 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter

 * 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

 * 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

 * 4 cups sifted confectioners' sugar

 * 4 cups semisweet chocolate chips

 * 2 tablespoons shortening

 * Toothpicks

Instructions:

 * Make the Peanut Butter Filling:

   

   * In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract.

   * Gradually add the confectioners' sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.

   * The dough should be firm but pliable. If it's too sticky, add a little more confectioners' sugar.

 * Shape the Balls:

   

   * Roll the peanut butter mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

   * Freeze the balls for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.

 * Melt the Chocolate:

   

   * In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and shortening in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.

 * Dip the Balls:

   

   * Insert a toothpick into the top of each chilled peanut butter ball.

   * Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the ball.

   * Remove the toothpick and place the dipped balls back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.

 * Chill and Serve:

   

   * Chill the Buckeyes in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Tips:

 * For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips.

 * You can add a pinch of salt to the peanut butter mixture for a salty-sweet flavor.

 * Store the Buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Enjoy your delicious and decadent Buckeyes!