Excuse My Buckeyes (But They’re Champions)

Ok, I admit that these buckeyes look slightly horrifying — like I made them while sleepwalking or maybe even blindfolded. The real story? It was snowing today, so  I had to go skiing with on a Monday. (If you don’t believe me, see below.) The skiing was better than either of us anticipated and we stayed a wee bit too long. Hence why my healthy buckeyes were clearly made in haste, but don’t let these sloppy looks deceive you. They taste like a Reese’s for those of you, who have never had them. As both my parents are from Ohio and both OSU alums, we made buckeyes for every Thanksgiving when I was little. While they normally call for lots of butter and sugar, I lightened them up with dates instead. We needed some healthy buckeyes in time for the Ohio Oregon kick-off. (I promise to make new, more photogenic ones when I have ample time.) I’d like to think that my Healthy Buckeyes imperfection gave some perfection to Ohio State.

Ingredients (makes about 20 medium-large buckeyes).

• 20 dates, whole and pitted
• 2½ c whipped peanut butter
• 1 T unsweetened vanilla almond milk
• 3/4 c dark chocolate chips *
• 1/4 c milk chocolate chips *

* NOTE: I like a blend of dark and milk chocolate, but feel free to use whatever!

Directions.

1. To soften the dates, soak in water for about 3o min. Remove dates from water and chop; this will make them easier to pulverize. Place the dates in a food processor and pulverize until paste forms or no large pieces remain.
2. Add peanut butter to the dates and blend until smooth. If needed, add in the almond milk to help mix.
3. If firm enough, roll the peanut date mixture into balls. If too soft, place the peanut butter in the freezer before rolling balls.
4. Put the chocolate chips in a microwavable bowl. Microwave on high for 1 min. Stir. Continue microwaving on high for 30 sec intervals, stirring in between to fully melt the chocolate.
5. Press a toothpick into the top of each buckeye for a handle. Dip or roll the peanut butter date balls in the chocolate. Place on wax paper to cool. Again, if you want to expediate the process, place the buckeyes in the freezer or fridge.
6. Enjoy!

Adapted from My Whole Food Life‘s “Healthy Buckeyes.”

 Excuse my fugly, but delicious buckeyes. (I promise to have new photos.)

New snow at Sunday River.

Throw in the Matterhorn for some “après ski” to add to our delay.