If you’re looking for the perfect Buckeyes Cookie Recipe to snack on while cheering for the Ohio State Buckeyes in the National Championship, you’re in the right place! These no-bake treats are pure game-day vibes—peanut butter and chocolate perfection that looks just like a real buckeye nut (shoutout to Ohio’s state tree). Whether you’re throwing a watch party or just need a reason to make something sweet, these are super easy to whip up and guaranteed to win over your crowd. Let’s bring some Buckeye pride to the snack table and cheer our team to victory!

Buckeyes Cookie Recipe Ingredients
This Buckeyes Cookie Recipe keeps it simple and delicious with just five ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen! You’ll need:
- Peanut Butter: Opt for creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture. While natural peanut butter can be used, it may result in a drier consistency.
- Butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. If using unsalted butter, consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of vanilla extract enhances the flavor, adding depth to the peanut butter mixture.
- Confectioners’ Sugar: This ingredient sweetens and binds the mixture. Adjust the amount slightly if the dough is too sticky or dry. TIP: Add your powdered sugar gradually so it incorporates smoothly into the mixture and scrape the sides often while mixing!
- Semisweet Chocolate Chips: For a different taste, substitute with dark or white chocolate. Adding a teaspoon of coconut oil can help achieve a smoother coating.
Why Are They Called Buckeyes?
Buckeyes cookies are called that because they look like the nut from Ohio’s buckeye tree—dark brown with a little lighter spot on top. It’s a whole Ohio thing, and since Ohio State’s mascot is the Buckeye, these treats have basically become the unofficial snack of the team. They’re easy to make, taste amazing, and let’s be real—if you’re an Ohio State fan, they’re practically a requirement!
Storing & Freezing Buckeyes
To keep your Buckeyes fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container. If you’re planning to eat them within a few days, you can leave them at room temperature in a cool spot (although I personally think they are tastier when they are chilled). For longer storage, pop them in the fridge—they’ll stay good for up to two weeks. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment or wax paper to keep them from sticking together.
If you want to make them way ahead of time, they freeze beautifully! Place them in a freezer-safe container, layered with parchment paper, and they’ll last up to three months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temp when you’re ready to dig in!
The OG Buckeyes Cookie Recipe Photo…
Throwing it back to 2012 with the original recipe photo from when I first shared this Buckeyes recipe on my blog! The quality is peak early blogging vibes—grainy, yellow, and unfiltered—but it’s such a fun little time capsule. This picture takes me back to our very first home together, rolling peanut butter balls in a kitchen with tiled countertops and absolutely zero dollars for decor. I’ve been making these Buckeyes since I married my favorite Ohio State fan in 2011, and they’ve been a game-day staple ever since.
Buckeyes Cookie Recipe
Make the best Buckeyes Cookie Recipe with creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and simple tips for a perfect, crowd-pleasing treat every time!
Ingredients
- 2 cups peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups confectioners sugar
- 3 cups semisweet chocolate chip
- toothpicks
Instructions
1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture: In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until fully combined—the dough will appear dry but should hold together when shaped.
2. Roll Into Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a cookie sheet lined with wax paper. Insert a toothpick into the top of each ball to use as a handle for dipping later.
3. Chill: Place the tray of peanut butter balls in the freezer and chill until firm, about 30 minutes. This makes them easier to dip in chocolate.
4. Melt the Chocolate: In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips. Stir frequently until the chocolate is smooth and glossy.
5. Dip the Peanut Butter Balls: Using the toothpick as a handle, dip each frozen ball into the melted chocolate. Leave a small circle of peanut butter visible at the top to give them the classic Buckeye look. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the ball back on the cookie sheet.
6. Set and Serve: Once all the balls are dipped, refrigerate the tray until the chocolate is fully set. Serve straight from the fridge or at room temperature and enjoy!
Recipe originally published in January 2012 and updated in January 2025 with new photos. Original recipe remains the same.
Emily Obrovac
Monday 20th of January 2025
These Buckeyes are candies, not cookies! Born and raised in Columbus (only left for 5 years at C of C), and made for our wedding as favors.
They are amazing, but for sure a labor of love! Thanks for sharing them with the world and O-H!
Sheila
Tuesday 21st of January 2025
@Emily Obrovac, Yes- these are candies!
Anonymous
Wednesday 19th of December 2012
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little miss southern love.
Friday 6th of January 2012
Yum! I love buckeyes! And I am so glad the Gators won! xoxo.
Ashley
Tuesday 3rd of January 2012
For some reason I've never made Buckeyes- saving this recipe to try!
magnoliasmimosas
Monday 2nd of January 2012
These look delicious! And go Gators!I do love Florida, but I especially love any team who's going to beat Ohio State ;)