Ohio's Candy Buckeyes

First time visiting Columbus, I quickly became aware of these candy buckeyes. Made of chocolate and peanut butter and crafted to look like the fruit of Ohio's state tree, the Buckeye, these bite-size treats are a regional favorite.

WARNING! This may get messy! :)

Ingredients:
•1 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
•1 stick softened butter
•1/2 tsp. vanilla
•3 cups powdered sugar (about 1/2 lb.)
•4 cups good quality semi-sweet chocolate chips
•2 tsps. vegetable shortening

Preparation:
Make the Peanut Butter Balls
In a large bowl (or the bowl or an electric mixer), combine the peanut butter, butter, and vanilla. Gradually add the powdered sugar to the mix until it is well mixed.

Roll the mixture into 3/4" balls, using your hands, and place on a plate lined with waxed paper. Stick a toothpick in each of the balls (to be used as a handle for dipping in the chocolate). Chill in the freezer for about 30 minutes.

Melt the Chocolate
When the peanut butter balls have set, gently melt the chocolate and shortening in the top of a double boiler, stirring frequently, under smooth.

Form the Buckeyes
Dip the frozen peanut butter balls in the chocolate, holding them by the toothpick. Leave a small portion on the peanut butter showing at top so the candy resembles the fruit of the "buckeye" tree. Return the buckeyes to the plate. Gently remove the toothpick and smooth over the hole. Refrigerate at least two hours before serving.

Storing Buckeyes
Store buckeyes in a tightly sealed tin or (preferably) in the refrigerator. Buckeyes also freeze well

Makes about 5 dozen.