Peanut Butter Balls are a delightful, no-bake treat that blends the creamy richness of peanut butter with a luscious chocolate coating. These bite-sized confections are perfect for holiday gifts, party snacks, or satisfying your sweet tooth any time of the year.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple and Quick: With minimal ingredients and no baking required, these are easy to whip up in no time.
Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, use your favorite chocolate, or experiment with toppings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves the classic combo of peanut butter and chocolate!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare these in advance and store them for quick treats or gifting.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for holidays or an everyday snack, these always hit the spot.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
2 cups chocolate chips (milk or dark chocolate)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional, for thinning the chocolate)
Directions
Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture:
Mix Peanut Butter and Butter: In a large bowl, stir together the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth.
Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Incorporate the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and smooth.
Add Graham Cracker Crumbs: Gradually stir in the graham cracker crumbs until a thick, sticky mixture forms.
Form the Balls:
Shape: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, roll the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill: Refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Coat with Chocolate:
Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and vegetable oil (if using) in 20-30 second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Dip the Balls: Using a fork, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess chocolate drip off before returning the ball to the parchment-lined sheet.
Chill Again: Refrigerate the chocolate-coated balls for another 30 minutes to set.
Servings and Timing
Servings: Makes about 25-30 peanut butter balls.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour total
Variations
Chocolate Options: Use white chocolate or a mix of dark and milk chocolate for variety.
Flavor Enhancements: Sprinkle sea salt, crushed nuts, or sprinkles on top of the chocolate coating.
Texture Tweaks: Add mini chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or toffee bits to the peanut butter mixture.
Sweetness Control: Adjust the amount of powdered sugar to suit your taste.
Gluten-Free: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free crumbs.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: These are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature; no reheating needed.
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FAQs
How can I make these nut-free?
Use sunflower seed butter or a similar nut-free alternative for the filling.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but the texture may be softer. Stir it well before mixing to ensure it’s smooth.
Why is my chocolate not smooth?
Adding a small amount of vegetable oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly and coat the balls evenly.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! They store well in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for advanced preparation.
Can I skip the graham cracker crumbs?
The crumbs help with structure and flavor, but you can replace them with finely ground cookies or omit them for a denser texture.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Balls are an easy, delectable treat that’s versatile and perfect for any occasion. With their rich peanut butter center and smooth chocolate coating, they’re sure to be a hit. Whether you’re indulging in a sweet snack or creating homemade gifts, these little delights never disappoint.
📖 Recipe:
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Peanut Butter Balls
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 25-30 peanut butter balls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Peanut Butter Balls are a no-bake, bite-sized treat featuring a creamy peanut butter filling coated in rich chocolate. Perfect for holidays, parties, or a quick sweet indulgence, these easy-to-make confections are a crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead and stored for later.
Ingredients
1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
2 cups chocolate chips (milk or dark chocolate)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional, for thinning the chocolate)
Instructions
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture
- In a bowl, mix peanut butter and softened butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix until creamy.
- Gradually stir in graham cracker crumbs to form a thick mixture.
- Shape the Balls
- Roll mixture into 1-inch balls; place on a parchment-lined sheet.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Coat with Chocolate
- Melt chocolate chips (with vegetable oil if needed) in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
- Dip chilled balls into the chocolate, ensuring full coverage.
- Place on parchment paper and refrigerate for another 30 minutes to set.
Notes
Sprinkle sea salt, nuts, or sprinkles on top before chocolate sets for added texture and flavor.
Adjust sweetness by varying the powdered sugar quantity.
Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives for a gluten-free version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 25-30 peanut butter balls
