Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is simple, requiring just five ingredients, and it creates a delightful treat that's perfect for holiday gifting or satisfying your sweet tooth. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is always a crowd-pleaser, and the best part is that they come together in just a few steps. Plus, you can easily adjust the recipe by adding toppings like sea salt, nuts, or sprinkles to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- Creamy peanut butter
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar
- Semi-sweet chocolate melting wafers (or other chocolate like Ghirardelli)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Mix peanut butter, butter, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer until well combined.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing it in with your hands for a smoother texture.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up.
- While chilling, melt the chocolate until smooth using a microwave or double boiler.
- Dip the frozen peanut butter balls into the melted chocolate, ensuring they're well-coated.
- Place the chocolate-coated balls on parchment paper and immediately sprinkle any toppings you desire.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes until set, and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 18-20 balls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Use different nut butters: You can swap peanut butter for almond, cashew, or even crunchy peanut butter.
- Add a crispy element: Mix in Rice Krispies for a fun, crunchy texture.
- Change the chocolate: Use white chocolate, milk chocolate, or dark chocolate for different flavor profiles.
Storage/Reheating
Store these chocolate peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage (up to 3 months). Enjoy straight from the fridge or freezer!
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Natural peanut butter can be too runny for this recipe, so it’s better to use creamy, processed peanut butter like Skippy or Jif for the best results.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These chocolate peanut butter balls can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer.
Can I use chocolate chips instead of melting wafers?
Melting wafers work best for a smooth coating, but you can use chocolate chips if necessary. They may require a bit more melting and may not coat as smoothly.
Can I add toppings to the chocolate?
Yes! You can sprinkle toppings like sea salt, chopped nuts, or sprinkles immediately after dipping the balls in chocolate.
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter is a great substitute if you prefer it over peanut butter.
How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking?
Chill the peanut butter balls before dipping them into the chocolate to help keep them firm and prevent cracking.
Can I use powdered stevia instead of powdered sugar?
Powdered stevia could be used, but it may alter the texture and flavor. Experiment with the amount to match your sweetness preference.
How do I make the chocolate coating smoother?
Using high-quality chocolate and tapping the fork to remove excess chocolate will ensure a smooth finish.
Can I freeze these peanut butter balls?
Yes! These treats freeze well. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
How do I store leftover peanut butter balls?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls are the perfect indulgent treat. With their smooth peanut butter filling and rich chocolate coating, they make an ideal snack or gift. Easy to make and customizable, they’re sure to be a hit whenever you serve them!
Creamy Peanut Butter Balls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 18-20 Servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate. With just five simple ingredients, these no-bake truffles come together quickly and are perfect for holiday gifting or satisfying your sweet cravings. The smooth peanut butter filling is coated in delicious chocolate, making them an irresistible snack. Customize them with your favorite toppings like sea salt, nuts, or sprinkles for an extra special touch!
Ingredients
- Creamy peanut butter
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar
- Semi-sweet chocolate melting wafers (or other chocolate like Ghirardelli)
Instructions
- Using an electric mixer, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well-mixed.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing it in with your hands to achieve a smooth texture.
- Shape the peanut butter mixture into 1-inch balls and place them in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up.
- While the balls chill, melt the semi-sweet chocolate (or your choice of chocolate) using a microwave or double boiler until smooth.
- Dip each frozen peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Place the chocolate-coated peanut butter balls on parchment paper and immediately sprinkle with your desired toppings (such as sea salt, chopped nuts, or sprinkles).
- Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes until the chocolate is set. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can swap the peanut butter for other nut butters like almond, cashew, or crunchy peanut butter for a unique twist.
- To add some crunch, mix in Rice Krispies or other crispy cereals into the peanut butter mixture.
- For a different flavor profile, try using white chocolate, milk chocolate, or dark chocolate for the coating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
