Name: Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 cup sunflower seeds (roasted); 2 tbsp oil; 1 tsp honey; 1 cup sunbutter; 1/4 cup softened butter; 1 cup organic pure powdered sugar; 1/8 tsp sea salt; 10 oz enjoy life chocolate chips or chunks; 1 tbsp coconut oil (you can use avocado oil if you don’t want the coconut flavor or if you have a tree nut allergy); 1/4 cup holiday sprinkles (optional)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Every holiday season, I find myself reminiscing about childhood traditions, and one treat that always brings back fond memories is the Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes. These delightful little morsels are not only delicious but also cater to various dietary needs, making them the perfect addition to any festive gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply looking to satisfy a sweet tooth, these buckeyes are sure to please everyone. I love making them with family, gathering around the kitchen to roll the dough and dip them in chocolate, creating a warm atmosphere filled with laughter and joy. The rich, nutty flavor of sunflower seeds combined with creamy sunbutter and a touch of honey makes these treats irresistible. Plus, they’re so easy to prepare that even the youngest chefs can help out!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
130 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
6 g

Tools Used:
Blender, Food Processor, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

The Charm of This Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes

1. Allergy-Friendly Delight

The Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes are a dream for those with dietary restrictions. Made without traditional allergens, they are a safe choice for parties where you may not know everyone’s food sensitivities. This means you can serve them without worry, allowing everyone to indulge in the holiday spirit.

2. Easy to Make

If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive treat, look no further. The steps to creating Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes are straightforward and quick, allowing even beginner bakers to succeed. The most complex step is melting the chocolate, which is as easy as heating it in intervals.

3. Perfect for Gifting

These buckeyes make for a fantastic homemade gift. Pack them in a beautiful box or jar, and you’ve got a thoughtful present that shows you care. Personal touches can elevate your gift, making it special for your loved ones.

4. Versatile Treat

While Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes are perfect for the holidays, they can be enjoyed year-round. Whether it’s a birthday party, family gathering, or just a treat for yourself, these bites are incredibly versatile. You can even change up the toppings for different occasions!

5. Healthy Indulgence

Unlike many other desserts, these buckeyes are made with wholesome ingredients like sunflower seeds and sunbutter. They provide a satisfying sweetness without the guilt, making them a healthier alternative to traditional sweets.

6. No Baking Required

Another fantastic feature of these Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes is that they require no baking! That means less cleanup and more time enjoying the festivities with family and friends.

Main Ingredients for Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes

The ingredients for these Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes are simple yet powerful in flavor. Each component plays a role in creating a delightful balance of taste and texture. From the nutty richness of sunflower seeds to the creaminess of sunbutter, these ingredients work beautifully together to create a treat that is both satisfying and allergy-friendly.

1 cup sunflower seeds, roasted: Provides a rich nutty flavor and a good source of healthy fats.
2 tbsp oil: Adds moisture and helps to bind the ingredients together.
1 tsp honey: Natural sweetener that balances the flavors.
1 cup sunbutter: Acts as the main body of the dough, contributing creaminess and a rich nutty taste.
1/4 cup softened butter: Enhances creaminess and adds richness to the buckeyes.
1 cup organic pure powdered sugar: Sweetens the mixture and helps to form the dough.
1/8 tsp sea salt: A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor profile.
10 oz enjoy life chocolate chips or chunks: The perfect chocolate coating for that indulgent touch.
1 tbsp coconut oil (or avocado oil): Helps to melt the chocolate smoothly.
1/4 cup holiday sprinkles (optional): Adds a festive touch and visual appeal.

How to Cook Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes

Creating Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes is not only fun but also a chance to bond with family and friends. Follow these simple steps to make your own delicious batch!

Start by placing the sunflower seeds, oil, and honey in a food processor. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. You want to ensure that the sunflower seeds are well incorporated, giving you a rich base for your buckeyes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sunbutter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and sea salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated. You can use a spatula or your hands to knead the mixture until a smooth dough forms. The texture should be similar to playdough, easy to work with!
Once your dough is ready, roll it into small balls, about one inch in diameter. Place these on a Silpat or parchment paper-lined baking sheet. It’s important to keep them uniform in size for even coating later. After rolling, place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This helps the balls firm up, making them easier to dip in chocolate.
While the buckeyes are freezing, prepare the chocolate coating. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. This step is crucial; you don’t want any lumps in your coating!
Once the buckeye balls are firm, remove them from the freezer. Using a toothpick, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess chocolate drip off before placing it back on the baking sheet. This is where you can add the holiday sprinkles if desired. It adds a festive flair!
After dipping all the balls, refrigerate them for another 30 minutes or until the chocolate is completely set. You’ll know it’s ready when the chocolate feels firm to the touch. Enjoy the anticipation as you wait for these treats to be ready!

Things Worth Knowing

Using chilled chocolate will help it set faster on the buckeyes.
Try adding different toppings like crushed nuts or dried fruit for a unique twist.
Ensure your sunflower seeds are roasted for the best flavor.
Keep an eye on your chocolate when melting; it can burn quickly if not monitored.

Recipe Variations about Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes

If you want to get creative, there are so many ways to put your spin on Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes. Try out these variations to keep things exciting!

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing: You can freeze the buckeyes for up to three months. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Nut-Free Option: Replace the sunbutter with tahini for a nut-free alternative.
Flavor Variations: Add spices like cinnamon or even a little espresso powder to the dough for a different flavor profile.
Chocolate Choices: Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark or white chocolate.
Sweetener Swap: Use maple syrup instead of honey if you prefer a vegan option.

Pairing Suggestions for Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes

When serving your Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes, consider pairing them with delightful accompaniments to elevate your dessert table.

Hot Chocolate: Nothing beats a cozy cup of hot chocolate alongside your sweet buckeyes, perfect for chilly evenings.
Tea Parties: These treats can be a lovely addition to an afternoon tea gathering; serve them with a variety of teas.
Holiday Platter: Combine with other festive treats like cookies and candies in a decorative platter for a delightful holiday spread.
Family Gatherings: They make for a great dessert at family reunions or potlucks, appealing to both kids and adults.
Picnics: The Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes are also perfect for outdoor gatherings; just make sure to keep them cool.
Seasonal Celebrations: Great for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or Christmas parties; they capture the essence of holiday treats!

FAQ

Absolutely! The Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes can be made a few days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They actually taste even better after resting for a day or two as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to let them set in the fridge until the chocolate is firm, and you can easily prepare them for your holiday gatherings.

If you want to make the Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes vegan, you can simply substitute the honey with maple syrup. This way, you maintain the delicious flavor while making it suitable for a vegan diet. The rest of the ingredients are already plant-based, allowing everyone to enjoy these delicious treats!

Leftover Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you have a larger batch, consider freezing them, which allows them to keep well for up to three months. Just be sure to layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking. When you want to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature.

Of course! You can get creative with the coating of your Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes. While dark chocolate is a popular choice, feel free to use milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even a blend of different chocolates. Adjusting the type of chocolate can change the flavor profile and allow for more customization to suit your taste preferences!

Conclusion

The Allergy Friendly Holiday Buckeyes are truly a special treat that brings joy to any occasion. They’re not just delicious and easy to make; they also cater to various dietary needs, ensuring everyone can indulge in their sweet goodness. I encourage you to try making these delightful bites for your next gathering or even just to treat yourself. You won’t regret it, and I bet they’ll become a new favorite in your household!