Peanut Butter Balls Recipe
Rich, decadent, and absolutely irresistible, Peanut Butter Balls are the ultimate no-bake treat that combines creamy peanut butter and silky-smooth chocolate for a bite-sized dessert loved by all ages. These little morsels are fabulously easy to whip up, require just a handful of pantry staples, and bring that perfect sweet-salty harmony you crave when your sweet tooth calls. Whether you’re making them for holiday cookie trays, bake sales, or simply enjoying them as an anytime indulgence, these Peanut Butter Balls deliver happiness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For Peanut Butter Balls, every ingredient brings something special to the party — from silky texture to deep flavor and luscious finishing. With just a few basics, you’ll create confections that taste like hours of work but come together in no time.
- Creamy Peanut Butter: The star of the show, it provides a rich, nutty base and helps the balls hold their classic soft texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Softened to blend seamlessly, it adds irresistible richness and helps with creamy consistency.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a delightful aroma and rounds out the sweet flavors.
- Powdered Sugar: A must for sweetness and structure, giving the dough its firm yet tender bite.
- Semisweet Chocolate Chips: For a decadent outer shell that’s just the right balance of sweet and deep chocolatey goodness.
- Shortening or Coconut Oil: Just a bit makes the melted chocolate glossy, smooth, and easy to dip.
How to Make Peanut Butter Balls
Step 1: Cream the Peanut Butter Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Using a mixer or a sturdy spoon, beat everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This step sets the foundation for the perfect texture, so make sure there are no lumps before moving on.
Step 2: Sweeten and Thicken
Gradually add the powdered sugar to your peanut butter mixture, stirring or blending well after each addition. Keep going until all the sugar is incorporated and you’re left with a thick, pliable dough. You should be able to pinch the dough, and it will hold its shape — that’s how you know it’s ready to roll!
Step 3: Shape Into Balls
Scoop out about a tablespoon of the dough and roll it between your hands to form a 1-inch ball. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly. The dough comes together quickly, so you’ll be rolling trays full of little peanut butter bites in no time.
Step 4: Chill for Firmness
Pop the baking sheet into the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the balls firm up, making them easier to dip in chocolate without losing their shape. Don’t skip this step, as it’s key for perfect Peanut Butter Balls!
Step 5: Coat in Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt together the semisweet chocolate chips and your choice of shortening or coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until smooth and glossy. Using a fork or toothpick, carefully dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, coating it on all sides. Return the coated balls to the baking sheet and repeat with the rest.
Step 6: Set and Enjoy
Once all the Peanut Butter Balls are coated, give them a final chill in the refrigerator for about 1 hour. This guarantees the chocolate sets into a beautiful, snappy shell. After that, they’re ready to devour — but fair warning, it’s hard to stop at just one!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Balls
Garnishes
To make your Peanut Butter Balls feel ultra-special, try sprinkling the tops with crushed salted peanuts, a drizzle of white chocolate, or even a pinch of flaky sea salt before the chocolate hardens. Each adds color, texture, and a hint of gourmet flair that makes these treats shine on any dessert platter.
Side Dishes
These little chocolate-peanut butter gems are perfect alongside a cup of coffee, a tall glass of milk, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also pair brilliantly with fresh berries or served as part of a festive assortment of holiday cookies for a truly celebratory snack spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Peanut Butter Balls into an edible gift by placing each one in a colorful paper candy cup and arranging them in a beautiful tin or box. For parties, stack them in a tall glass jar or skewer them onto lollipop sticks for a playful take on classic truffles. Their petite size invites creativity — don’t be afraid to have fun with presentation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Peanut Butter Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh, firm, and delicious for up to two weeks. They’re even better after they’ve had a chance to chill and let the flavors blend, so don’t be afraid to make them ahead!
Freezing
Yes, you can absolutely freeze Peanut Butter Balls! Arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray to freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container with layers of wax paper in between. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three months and make fantastic emergency treats for guests or cravings.
Reheating
These treats don’t require reheating, but if you prefer a softer center, you can let frozen Peanut Butter Balls sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying. For a warm and gooey twist, pop one in the microwave for about 6 seconds — just enough to melt the center ever so slightly without disturbing the chocolate shell.
FAQs
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter gives your Peanut Butter Balls added crunch and texture. Just know that the dough may be a bit less smooth, but the bits of peanut add delightful little surprises in every bite.
What if I don’t have shortening or coconut oil?
If you’re out of both, you can still melt the chocolate chips alone. The finished coating may be a little less shiny and smooth, but your Peanut Butter Balls will still taste amazing and satisfy that sweet tooth just fine.
Can I make these ahead for parties or holidays?
Definitely! Peanut Butter Balls are a make-ahead favorite because they store so well in the fridge or freezer. Make them up to several days in advance and simply pop them onto a platter when you’re ready to serve.
Are these treats gluten-free?
Most of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but it’s important to check labels on your chocolate chips and vanilla extract just to be sure. That way, everyone can enjoy these Peanut Butter Balls worry-free!
What’s the best way to dip the balls without making a mess?
Using a fork or a toothpick works wonders: Simply insert the toothpick into each ball, dip it into the chocolate, then gently slide it off onto the parchment. If you want a perfectly smooth finish on top, swirl the toothpick in a little extra melted chocolate to cover the hole.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about these classic Peanut Butter Balls — they bring together friends, family, and food lovers in the best way possible. If you’re looking for a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing treat that tastes like pure happiness, give this recipe a try. Trust me, you’ll be coming back for a second (and third!) batch in no time.
Print
Peanut Butter Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour including chilling
- Yield: 40 balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these irresistible Peanut Butter Balls that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Creamy peanut butter centers coated in rich chocolate make for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
For the Peanut Butter Balls:
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil
Instructions
- Mix Peanut Butter Mixture: In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually mix in powdered sugar until a thick dough forms.
- Form Balls: Roll mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and shortening in intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Coat Peanut Butter Balls: Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, coating evenly, and return to the sheet.
- Set Chocolate: Refrigerate until chocolate is set, approximately 1 hour.
Notes
- For variety, drizzle with white chocolate or sprinkle with crushed peanuts before the coating sets.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
