Step 1

Line a baking sheet with waxed paper; set aside.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, mix peanut butter, butter, vanilla, and confectioners’ sugar with hands to form a smooth stiff dough.

Step 3

Shape into balls using 2 teaspoons of dough for each ball and insert a wooden toothpick into the ball. Place on prepared pan, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 4

Melt shortening and chocolate together in a metal bowl over a pan of lightly simmering water. Stir occasionally until smooth, and remove from heat.

Step 5

Remove peanut butter balls from the refrigerator. Dip into melted chocolate leaving a small uncovered area so balls resemble buckeyes. Return to wax paper, chocolate side down, and remove toothpick. Repeat with remaining balls. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set. Use fingers to blend in toothpick holes.