Buckeyes

Book excerpt: What goes better together than chocolate and peanut butter? This match made in heaven has delighted young and old alike for decades. In the Midwest, these two delicious ingredients are combined into a sweet treat named after an Ohio tree nut: the buckeye. These little round balls of peanut buttery goodness—rolled and dipped in chocolate, of course—appear on platters at fan tailgates, church potlucks, family gatherings, and on cash register displays. They have become a staple of Midwestern culture and even have their own Buckeye Candy Trail through the state of Ohio. Midwestern native, author, and food lover Cyle Young reveals the history of the buckeye tree and the stories, folklore, and superstitions that accompany the famous nut. From the buckeye's place in the presidential campaign of William Henry Harrison to Ohio State's self-proclaimed biggest football fan, Buckeyes includes fascinating tidbits and stories for any candy lover. Young also shares which stores on the trail still make the buckeye candies the traditional way—by hand. Alongside classic recipes for the candy itself and sweet treats inspired by buckeye flavors—cakes, brownies, beverages, and more—are numerous tips on how to choose your peanut butter and chocolate, the many ways to melt your chocolate, and other secrets to help you become a buckeye connoisseur.