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These healthy no-bake buckeye balls have that same creamy peanut butter center dipped in rich dark chocolate but made with wholesome ingredients and zero refined sugar. As a certified nutrition coach and mom of five, I am always looking for treats that satisfy the craving without the guilt. These do exactly that.
Most traditional buckeye recipes are packed with powdered sugar and butter. Not exactly something I want to serve my kids without a second thought. So I created this version using ingredients I actually stand behind- natural peanut butter, almond flour, and erythritol in place of refined sugar.
As a nutrition coach this is exactly the kind of swap I love because you are not sacrificing flavor, you are just making smarter choices.
Recipe Overview
Key Ingredients
Below are the key ingredients and some things I would like to mention. Full measurements are listed further down in the recipe card.
- Natural peanut butter: Your main source of healthy fats and plant based protein. Use a creamy natural variety with no added sugar or oils.
- Almond flour: A great grain free alternative that holds the dough together and adds a subtle nutty flavor.
- Erythritol: A natural zero sugar sweetener that adds sweetness. Honey or maple syrup work too.
- Dark chocolate: Go for at least 70% cacao for a lower sugar option.
- Coconut oil: Keeps the melted chocolate smooth and easy to dip.
How to Melt the Chocolate
Melt on the stovetop over a double boiler or use your Instant Pot on the keep warm setting. The Instant Pot is my personal favorite because it holds the chocolate at the perfect temperature the whole time you are dipping. No rushing, no seizing up. 🙌
I also like using the microwave and melt them at 20 seconds increments.
Tips for the Best Buckeye Balls
- If the dough feels crumbly or sticky, add more almond flour one tablespoon at a time.
- Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper or the balls will stick.
- Rub a tiny bit of oil on your hands when rolling to prevent sticking if necessary.
- Do not skip the freeze step. 30 minutes is what makes dipping easy and keeps everything intact.
- Add sprinkles, crushed nuts, or a white chocolate drizzle to make them fun!
How to make Buckeye Balls
Make the Peanut Butter Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, almond flour, erythritol, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until a thick dough forms and everything is well combined.
Roll the Dough: Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, divide the dough into 16 evenly sized portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
Chill the Dough: Transfer the peanut butter balls to the freezer and chill for 30 minutes, or until firm.
Melt the Chocolate: Add the dark chocolate and coconut oil to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Dip the Buckeye Balls: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving about 1/4 of the top uncovered. Let the excess chocolate drip off, then place the buckeye ball back onto the parchment paper.
Garnish and Set: Top with flaky sea salt and chocolate curls while the chocolate is still wet. Let the chocolate set completely before serving. Keep refrigerated for the best texture.
Common Questions
Yes! Honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar all work. I like erythritol for those watching their sugar intake but any sweetener you enjoy will do.
Absolutely. Almond butter or cashew butter both work well. Just make sure it is a natural variety with no added sugar.
Yes and I recommend it. They keep well in the fridge or freezer and taste even better the next day once the chocolate has set.
How to Store Them
Store in the fridge for up to one week or in the freezer for up to two months. I love eating them straight from the freezer. The texture gets even better when they are cold.
You may also like
- Walnut Date Energy Balls
- Date Cookies
- Blueberry Banana Pancakes
- Date Paste Recipe
- Cottage Cheese Chocolate Pudding
Thank you so much for being here and for cooking along with me. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Leave a comment and rating below.
Healthy No-Bake Buckeye Balls (No refined-sugar)
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Creamy Peanut Butter
- 1¾ Cups Almond Flour
- 1/4 Cup Granulated Erythritol, or maple syrup* see note
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1/8 teaspoon Salt
- 1/3 Cup Dark Chocolate
- 1 teaspoon Coconut Oil
Optional
- Flaked sea salt , for topping
- Dark chocolate curls , for topping
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, add the 1 Cup Creamy Peanut Butter, 1¾ Cups Almond Flour, 1/4 Cup Granulated Erythritol, 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract, and 1/8 teaspoon Salt.
- Using a spatula, mix well to combine until a dough is formed.
- Separate the dough into 16 evenly sized balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill in the freezer for 30 minutes.
- Melt the 1/3 Cup Dark Chocolate and 1 teaspoon Coconut Oil together until smooth. Dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the chocolate until it's about 3/4 covered.
- Use a fork to remove the ball (or a toothpick) from the chocolate, letting the excess drip. Return it to the parchment paper.
- Repeat until you have covered all the balls. Top with Flaked sea salt and Dark chocolate curls .
Notes
- Note: If you decide to use maple syrup instead, you may need to add about 1/4 cup more almond flour.
- Use natural peanut butter that is well stirred for the best texture. If the peanut butter is too oily or too dry, the mixture may not hold together as well.
- Don’t skip freezing the balls. This will help them hold well.
- Almond flour helps keep these buckeye balls soft and slightly chewy while adding healthy fats and a little protein.
- Use dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a richer flavor and less sweetness.
- Add the coconut oil to the chocolate to help create a smoother coating that hardens nicely.
- Keep the buckeye balls chilled until ready to serve so they stay firm.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top right after dipping for the best flavor contrast.
- For a little extra protein, you can mix in a spoonful of vanilla protein powder if needed.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Not a fan of erythritol
Can I substitute ?
Yes, you can use any sugar or honey.
looks really good going to try it out, love your recipes!!!
Great! Let me know what you think
What is Erythritol? I’m not sure any of the grocery stores near me carry it, is it something I can leave out and this recipe will still be good?
Any sweetener will work. Like Truvia or monk fruit sweetener