Craving something sweet but simple to make? These homemade peanut butter chocolate balls are the ultimate no-bake treat, perfect for holidays, parties, or even a quick snack fix. With just a few essential ingredients and minimal effort, you can create an indulgent dessert that combines creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate into a bite-sized delight.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn step-by-step tips and tricks to ensure your peanut butter balls are not only delicious but also beautifully coated in chocolate. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced baker, this recipe is foolproof and sure to impress your friends and family.
Peanut Butter Balls:
Peanut butter chocolate balls are a classic treat that require no baking, minimal ingredients, and just a little bit of time. They are:
Kid-Friendly: Fun and easy to make, perfect for family activities.
Customizable: Add sprinkles, sea salt, or chopped nuts for extra flair.
Perfect for Gifting: These little treats look stunning in a holiday tin or dessert box.
Freezer-Friendly: You can make them in advance and enjoy them for weeks.
The secret lies in balancing the smooth, rich peanut butter filling with a crisp outer layer of chocolate. Plus, the hint of vanilla enhances the flavor profile, making every bite irresistible.
Tools You Need for This Recipe
Before you get started, make sure you have these kitchen essentials on hand:
Microwave: For melting the chocolate.
Mixing Bowls: For combining the peanut butter mixture.
Electric Mixer: A stand or handheld mixer will save time.
Baking Sheet: Line it with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Cookie Scoop: Ensures evenly sized peanut butter balls.
Double Boiler or
Fork or Dipping Tool: For a smooth chocolate coating
Peanut Butter Balls:
1. Preparing the Peanut Butter Mixture
The filling is the heart of this recipe, and getting the consistency right is key. Follow these steps:
Softened Butter: Start with 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter at room temperature. If your butter is still cold, soften it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds (be careful not to melt it).
Creamy Peanut Butter: Use 1 cup of creamy peanut butter (not the natural kind). Natural peanut butter tends to separate and won’t bind properly.
Confectioners’ Sugar: Gradually add 2½ cups (300g) of confectioners’ sugar to create the perfect sweet, smooth consistency.
Flavor Boost: Add ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract for a hint of warmth and depth.
Salt: A pinch of 1/8 teaspoon salt balances the sweetness.
Using a handheld or stand mixer, beat the butter until smooth and creamy. Add the peanut butter and continue mixing until fully combined. Slowly incorporate the sugar, vanilla, and salt until you achieve a soft, slightly crumbly dough.
Pro Tip: If the mixture seems too crumbly, don’t panic. The warmth from your hands will bring together when shaping the balls.
2. Shaping the Peanut Butter Balls
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to measure out about 1 inch (18g) of dough.
Roll the dough between your palms to form smooth, even balls.
Place the rolled balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
You should end up with approximately 32-35 peanut butter balls. If the dough becomes too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before continuing.
Pro Tip: Lightly dust your hands with confectioners’ sugar to prevent the dough from sticking.
3. Chilling the Peanut Butter Balls
Once shaped, the peanut butter balls need time to firm up. This step ensures they hold their shape when coated in chocolate:
Place the tray in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours if prepping ahead).
4. Melting the Chocolate Coating
For a silky-smooth chocolate coating, use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate bars like Bakers or Ghirardelli. Avoid chocolate chips, as they don’t melt as smoothly.
Chop 12 ounces (3 bars) of chocolate into small pieces for easy melting.
Add 1 teaspoon vegetable oil to thin the chocolate and achieve a perfect dipping consistency.
Melting Options:
Double Boiler Method: Place the chocolate and oil in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water. Stir until melted.
Microwave Method: Heat the chocolate and oil in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
Let the melted chocolate cool for about 6-8 minutes before dipping the peanut butter balls.
5. Dipping the Peanut Butter Balls in Chocolate
Remove the chilled peanut butter balls from the refrigerator.
Using a fork or candy dipping tool, dip each ball into the melted chocolate until fully coated.
Gently tap the tool on the side of the bowl to remove excess chocolate.
Place the coated ball back onto the baking sheet. If needed, use a toothpick or second fork to slide it off.
Optional Garnishes: While the chocolate is still wet, add sprinkles, crushed peanuts, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate for extra decoration.
6. Final Chill and Serving
Refrigerate the coated peanut butter balls for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate is fully set.
Once firm, transfer the peanut butter balls to an airtight container.
These treats can be stored:
At room temperature for 2 days.
In the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
In the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Pro Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Balls
Butter Choice: Unsalted butter works best, but if you’re using salted butter, reduce the added salt.
Avoid Natural Peanut Butter: Stick to regular creamy peanut butter for consistency.
Melting Chocolate: Always add a small amount of oil to chocolate for a glossy, even coat.
Garnishes: Get creative with toppings like sprinkles, sea salt, or a peanut butter drizzle.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These homemade peanut butter balls are:
Quick and Easy: Minimal prep with no baking involved.
Decadently Delicious: A balance of sweet chocolate and creamy peanut butter.
Perfect for All Occasions: From holidays to everyday snacking.
Peanut Butter Balls :
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Ingredients:
6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (250 g) creamy peanut butter
2½ cups (300 g) confectioners’ sugar
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
⅛ teaspoon salt
12 ounces (339 g) semi-sweet chocolate bars, chopped
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
Optional: Sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Add peanut butter, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Mix until combined.
Roll into 1-inch balls and place on the sheet.
Chill the balls in the fridge for 1 hour.
Melt chocolate with vegetable oil in the microwave (20-second intervals) or double boiler.
Dip each ball in chocolate, tapping off excess, and place it back on the sheet.
Add sprinkles if desired, and refrigerate for 30 minutes until set.
Serve chilled or store in an airtight container.
