Nutella Buckeye Balls with Chocolate Dipping Recipe

If you’re a fan of the classic peanut butter and chocolate combo, you’re in for a treat with this Nutella Buckeye Balls with Chocolate Dipping Recipe. This recipe is seriously one of my favorites for gatherings or when I just need a quick sweet fix that *feels* fancy but is so easy to whip up. I absolutely love how creamy, rich, and chocolatey these buckeye balls turn out—plus, the chocolate dip makes them irresistible. Keep reading if you want some foolproof tips and a step-by-step to nail that perfect bite every time!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

I love how straightforward this recipe is with ingredients you likely already have or can easily find. Each one plays a key role in balancing that heavenly flavor and the perfect texture you’ll find in these Nutella Buckeye Balls with Chocolate Dipping Recipe.

• Nutella: Adds creamy hazelnut goodness that takes the peanut buttery filling up a notch.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: Stick with creamy for smoothness and easy blending.
• Unsalted Butter: Softened to room temp, butter brings richness and helps bind everything together.
• Vanilla Extract: Just a splash enhances all the chocolate and nutty flavors beautifully.
• Powdered Sugar: Gives sweetness without grittiness, which is essential for that silky dough.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Balances sweetness and deepens the chocolate flavor.
• Chocolate Almond Bark: Melts smooth with a shiny finish—perfect for the coating.
• Dark Chocolate Chips: Mixed with the almond bark for a rich, luscious coating.
• Flake Sea Salt (optional): Adds a lovely salty crunch that compliments the sweet and nutty layers.

Variations

While I usually stick to the original recipe, I love playing with flavors depending on the occasion. These Nutella Buckeye Balls with Chocolate Dipping Recipe are delightfully customizable, letting you add your personal touch or adapt to dietary needs.

• Nut-Free Variation: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or cookie butter for a safe allergy-friendly option—I did this when hosting friends with allergies, and no one missed the peanut flavor!
• Extra Crunch: Add finely chopped toasted hazelnuts or peanuts into the mixture for a textural surprise.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use vegan butter and ensure your chocolate coating is dairy-free; the process stays the same.
• Flavor Twist: Drop in a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder into the dough for a subtle warmth layered under that sweet chocolate coating.

How to Make Nutella Buckeye Balls with Chocolate Dipping Recipe

Step 1: Cream Together the Nutella, Peanut Butter, and Butter

This is where your base flavor and texture come alive. Using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat together the Nutella, creamy peanut butter, and softened unsalted butter on medium speed until the mixture is silky smooth and completely combined. It’s important to scrape down the sides of your bowl occasionally so you get a consistent mixture—trust me, I’ve missed that step and ended up with little pockets of butter that threw off the texture.

Step 2: Add Vanilla, Powdered Sugar, and Cocoa Powder

Pour in the vanilla extract first, then slowly add the powdered sugar and unsweetened cocoa powder while running your mixer on low. Doing this gradually helps keep the powdered sugar airborne and mixes evenly without a storm of sugar clouds in your kitchen. Mix until the dough pulls together and can be rolled into a smooth ball. If it’s too crumbly or dry, I discovered adding a tablespoon of water helps bind everything perfectly without diluting the flavor.

Step 3: Shape and Chill the Buckeye Balls

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop 1-inch portions onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, then roll them gently into smooth balls. This part is fun, but I recommend chilling the balls before dipping—either an hour in the fridge or 20 minutes in the freezer—to prevent melting when dipped. I found that making this step a habit really helps the chocolate coating set nicely and look professional.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate for Dipping

Combine the chocolate almond bark and dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 30 seconds at a time, stirring between each interval until melted smooth. In my microwave, it took about 2 minutes total, but watch yours carefully—overheating chocolate can cause it to seize up. The combo of almond bark and chips gives this Nutella Buckeye Balls with Chocolate Dipping Recipe a glossy, firm finish that’s just beautiful.

Step 5: Dip and Chill

Stick a toothpick in the center of each chilled buckeye ball and dip it halfway into the melted chocolate. Rest the dipped balls back on the parchment-lined tray. Once all are dipped, pop the tray back into the fridge for about 15 minutes to let the chocolate set completely. I like to sprinkle a little flake sea salt on top for an extra pop of flavor right after dipping. It’s an optional but game-changing touch you’ll appreciate when you taste that delicious salty-sweet combo.

How to Serve Nutella Buckeye Balls with Chocolate Dipping Recipe

Garnishes

I swear, a tiny sprinkle of flaky sea salt on each buckeye right after dipping takes the flavor to a whole new level. It balances the sweetness and adds a delicate crunch that keeps you coming back for more. If you’re feeling fancy, you can also dust with a little cocoa powder or crushed nuts before the chocolate sets, but simple sea salt is my favorite.

Side Dishes

These buckeye balls shine wonderfully alongside a simple cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For parties, I like to pair them with fresh fruit platters or salty snacks like pretzels to offer contrast. They also make a delightful addition to dessert boards because of their rich flavors and charming size.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served these Nutella Buckeye Balls with Chocolate Dipping Recipe tucked into mini cupcake liners or arranged on decorative trays sprinkled with edible gold dust or crushed hazelnuts. You can even place them on skewers for a fun “buckeye pops” presentation—always a crowd-pleaser and super Instagram-worthy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover buckeye balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. I find this keeps them fresh and firm without drying out. Just make sure you let them come to room temperature a bit before eating if you don’t want the filling to feel too firm.

Freezing

If you want to make a bunch ahead of time, these freeze beautifully. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze solid first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. I’ve frozen batches for holiday parties, and the texture holds up exceptionally well.

Reheating

These don’t really need reheating since they’re best enjoyed chilled or at room temp. But if you want to soften them up a bit, just sit them out for 15-20 minutes to come to room temperature naturally. Microwaving can melt the chocolate coating, so I’d avoid that unless you’re careful with very short bursts.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Nutella Buckeye Balls with Chocolate Dipping Recipe holds a special place in my dessert arsenal. It’s easy enough for a quick weekend project but impressive enough to wow guests. The rich hazelnut and peanut butter filling paired with the smooth chocolate dip always reminds me of cozy nights with friends, sharing sweet bites and laughter. I hope you give this recipe a try—it’s a surefire way to bring a little extra joy to your kitchen and your taste buds!

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