Peanut Butter Balls: A Perfect Sweet Treat for Any Occasion
Looking for a quick and easy dessert that will impress your family and friends? Peanut butter balls are the answer! These delightful little bites combine the nutty richness of peanut butter with the smooth sweetness of chocolate, creating a treat that’s irresistible for kids and adults alike.
A Treat with Nostalgia
Peanut butter balls bring back memories of childhood treats made for special occasions. Whether they’re featured on holiday platters or made as an everyday indulgence, these treats are a timeless favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can recreate this classic dessert in your own kitchen.
I first learned this recipe from my grandmother, who would whip up a batch every Christmas. She always added a pinch of sea salt to the chocolate coating for an extra layer of flavor. Today, I still follow her tradition, and it never fails to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Simple: Ready in just 35 minutes with no baking required.
- Irresistible Flavor: The perfect combination of salty peanut butter and sweet chocolate.
- Customizable: Easily adapt with different nut butters or toppings like sprinkles or crushed nuts.
- Perfect for Gifting: These treats store well and make great homemade gifts!
Step-by-Step Guide to Peanut Butter Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- ½ cup peanut butter
- 3 tbsp salted butter (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut or vegetable oil
Instructions
1. Make the Peanut Butter Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and softened salted butter. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, stirring until a firm dough forms.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to firm up the mixture.
2. Shape the Balls
- Remove the mixture from the fridge. Using your hands, roll the dough into small, bite-sized balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Place the balls on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for another 10 minutes.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Coating
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler, following the package instructions. Stir in the oil for a smoother coating.
4. Coat the Peanut Butter Balls
- Using a fork, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Place the coated balls back onto the parchment paper. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt if desired.
5. Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the tray of coated peanut butter balls until the chocolate sets, about 10-15 minutes.
- Serve chilled or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Balls
- Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality chocolate chips and creamy peanut butter make a big difference in flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the powdered sugar slightly.
- Experiment with Toppings: Try crushed peanuts, shredded coconut, or colorful sprinkles for a fun twist.
- Storage Tip: Keep the peanut butter balls in a sealed container in the fridge or freezer to maintain their texture and freshness.