Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: No baking required!
- Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples you probably already have.
- Perfect for gifting: These make a great homemade gift for any occasion.
- Customizable: Switch up the chocolate or add toppings to make them your own.
- Kid-friendly: Fun and simple for kids to help roll and dip.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Dipping chocolate of choice
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and vanilla extract. Add the peanut butter and stir until well mixed.
- Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, stirring until a smooth and thick dough forms.
- Roll the dough into small balls and arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 30 minutes to allow the balls to firm up.
- Melt your preferred dipping chocolate in a microwave or double boiler.
- Dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Place them back on the baking sheet and let them set.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 24-30 balls (depending on size)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate options: Use dark, milk, or white chocolate for dipping.
- Add texture: Sprinkle crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or sprinkles on the chocolate coating before it sets.
- Healthier version: Substitute powdered sugar with a natural sweetener like powdered erythritol and use dark chocolate.
- Flavor twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: These are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature—no reheating required!
FAQs
1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly softer, so you might need to adjust the powdered sugar.
2. What’s the best chocolate for dipping?
High-quality melting chocolate or chocolate chips work great. Adding a teaspoon of coconut oil can make the chocolate smoother.
3. Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate.
4. How do I prevent the balls from sticking to my hands?
Lightly coat your hands with powdered sugar or oil before rolling.
5. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! They store well in the fridge or freezer, making them ideal for meal prep.
6. How can I decorate them?
Drizzle with contrasting chocolate or sprinkle toppings before the chocolate sets.
7. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free as written.
8. How long does the chocolate take to set?
The chocolate will typically set in 15-20 minutes at room temperature or faster in the fridge.
9. What other nut butters can I use?
You can use almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter as alternatives.
10. Why is my dough too crumbly?
If the dough is too dry, add a small amount of melted butter or peanut butter to adjust the consistency.
Conclusion
These Peanut Butter Balls are a classic, no-fail treat that everyone will love. Perfectly sweet, indulgently chocolatey, and delightfully easy to make, they’re sure to become a staple in your dessert lineup. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a party or simply satisfying a craving, this recipe has you covered. Enjoy!
Peanut Butter Balls Recipe
These easy no-bake Peanut Butter Balls are a sweet treat with a creamy peanut butter center coated in rich chocolate. Perfect for holidays, parties, or everyday cravings, this customizable dessert is simple, kid-friendly, and great for gifting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes Yield: Approximately 24–
- Yield: Approximately 24–30 balls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Dipping chocolate of your choice
Instructions
- Combine melted butter and vanilla extract in a bowl. Add peanut butter and mix well.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, stirring until the dough is smooth and thick.
- Roll dough into small balls and place on a baking sheet.
- Freeze balls for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Melt chocolate in the microwave or double boiler.
- Dip each ball into the chocolate, ensuring even coating. Let set on the baking sheet.
Notes
- If the dough feels crumbly, add a little more melted butter or peanut butter to adjust the consistency.
- Use high-quality chocolate for best results, and add a teaspoon of coconut oil for smoother dipping.