Healthy Buckeyes are a wholesome take on the classic peanut butter and chocolate treat. Made with almond flour, natural peanut butter, and maple syrup, these no-bake bites are naturally sweetened, vegan-friendly, and gluten-free. They’re perfect for a quick snack, a healthier dessert option, or a satisfying bite of indulgence without the guilt.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Healthy Buckeyes are everything you love about the original—rich, nutty, and chocolate-coated—but without refined sugars or dairy. They’re simple to make with just a handful of ingredients and require no baking. Whether you’re looking for an energy-boosting snack or a sweet treat to keep on hand, these buckeyes are an easy and satisfying choice for both kids and adults.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 1/3 cups almond flour
1 cup natural peanut butter
1/4 teaspoon salt (only if peanut butter is unsalted)
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chocolate chips
1 teaspoon coconut oil

directions

Make the Peanut Butter Balls:
In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, peanut butter, salt (if using), maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture forms a cohesive dough.
Roll and Chill:
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth and glossy.
Dip the Buckeyes:
Using a fork or toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, leaving the top portion uncovered to resemble a traditional buckeye. Place them back on the baking sheet.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the dipped buckeyes for at least 15 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Servings and timing

Servings: 18 balls
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: Approximately 198 kcal per ball

Variations

Nut-Free Option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
Extra Crunch: Mix in crushed nuts, seeds, or cacao nibs into the dough for added texture.
Dark Chocolate Coating: Use dark chocolate chips (70% or higher) for a richer, less sweet flavor.
Coconut Flavor: Add a pinch of shredded coconut to the dough or sprinkle it on top of the melted chocolate.
Protein Boost: Add 1 tablespoon of plant-based protein powder to the dough for a more filling snack.

storage/reheating

Store the buckeyes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be enjoyed straight from the freezer or allowed to thaw for 10–15 minutes at room temperature. These treats do not require reheating.

FAQs

Are these buckeyes gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is completely gluten-free as it uses almond flour and contains no wheat-based ingredients.

Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute maple syrup with agave nectar or date syrup in equal amounts.

How can I make these buckeyes less sweet?

Use dark chocolate chips and reduce the maple syrup slightly. You can also use unsweetened peanut butter for a more balanced flavor.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds texture and works just as well in this recipe.

Do I have to use coconut oil?

Coconut oil helps smooth and set the chocolate coating, but you can omit it or substitute with a small amount of vegetable oil or vegan butter.

Can I make these without almond flour?

You can try using oat flour or finely ground cashew flour, though the texture may differ slightly.

How long can I freeze them?

You can freeze the buckeyes for up to 3 months. Store in a freezer-safe container and thaw before serving.

Do they taste like traditional buckeyes?

Yes, they maintain the classic peanut butter and chocolate flavor but with a lighter, less processed taste and a softer texture.

Can I coat them fully in chocolate?

Absolutely. Fully dip the peanut butter balls in chocolate for a truffle-like version.

Are these safe for kids?

Yes, these treats are kid-friendly and a healthier alternative to candy, especially when made with natural ingredients.

Conclusion

Healthy Buckeyes are a delightful no-bake treat that combines nostalgic flavor with better-for-you ingredients. Whether you’re making them for a snack, dessert, or to satisfy a chocolate craving, these naturally sweetened peanut butter balls are simple to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Keep a batch in the fridge or freezer for whenever you need a quick, wholesome bite.

Healthy Buckeyes

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Author: Olivia
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 18 balls
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These healthy buckeyes are a no-bake, naturally sweetened treat made with peanut butter, almond flour, maple syrup, and rich chocolate. Vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and irresistibly delicious for guilt-free snacking!

Ingredients

1 1/3 cups almond flour
1 cup natural peanut butter
1/4 teaspoon salt (if peanut butter is unsalted)
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chocolate chips
1 teaspoon coconut oil

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Instructions

Make Peanut Butter Dough: In a bowl, mix almond flour, peanut butter, salt (if using), maple syrup, and vanilla extract until a thick dough forms.
Roll & Chill: Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Place on a lined baking sheet and chill for 30 minutes.
Melt Chocolate: Microwave chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Dip Buckeyes: Dip each peanut butter ball into the chocolate, coating about two-thirds of the ball. Return to the tray.
Chill Again: Refrigerate for 15 minutes or until chocolate is set. Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.

Notes

Use almond butter for a peanut-free version.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty twist.
Perfect for holiday platters or healthy sweet cravings.