Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls offer the perfect combination of rich, creamy peanut butter and a decadent chocolate coating. The smooth peanut butter center is perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sweetness, while the chocolate shell adds a satisfying crunch. The best part? They are incredibly easy to make with only a few ingredients, and no baking is required! Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just for a fun snack, these chocolate peanut butter balls are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or shortening)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture:
- In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs, stirring until fully incorporated. The mixture should be thick and dough-like.
- Stir in the vanilla extract to add extra flavor.
- Form the Balls:
- Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the peanut butter mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once all the balls are formed, refrigerate them for about 30 minutes to help them firm up.
- Prepare the Chocolate Coating:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with vegetable oil (or shortening) in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely smooth and melted.
- Dip the Balls in Chocolate:
- Using a fork or toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Tap the fork gently on the edge of the bowl to remove any excess chocolate, then return the chocolate-coated peanut butter ball to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Set the Chocolate:
- Once all the peanut butter balls are coated, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set and firm.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the chocolate is set, your chocolate peanut butter balls are ready to serve! Enjoy immediately or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes approximately 24-30 chocolate peanut butter balls, depending on size. It takes about 20 minutes to prepare and an additional 1-2 hours of chilling time for the balls to firm up and for the chocolate to set.
Variations
- Dark Chocolate: Swap the semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Crunchy Peanut Butter: Use crunchy peanut butter in place of creamy for added texture.
- Add Nuts: Mix in chopped peanuts or other nuts to the peanut butter mixture for extra crunch and flavor.
- White Chocolate: Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate for a lighter, sweeter coating.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the chocolate peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: These peanut butter balls freeze well. Just place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
FAQs
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture, or if you prefer a more textured filling.
2. How do I make the chocolate coating smoother?
If the chocolate coating seems too thick, you can add a little more vegetable oil or shortening to thin it out and make it easier to dip.
3. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, almond butter can be used as a substitute for peanut butter for a different flavor. Just make sure it has a similar consistency for easy mixing.
4. Can I make these without graham cracker crumbs?
Yes, if you prefer, you can substitute the graham cracker crumbs with rice cereal or even oat flour for a slightly different texture.
5. Can I dip the peanut butter balls in something other than chocolate?
If you want to get creative, you can dip the balls in white chocolate, dark chocolate, or even drizzle the chocolate over the top for a different look.
6. How do I prevent the peanut butter balls from falling apart when dipping?
Chill the peanut butter balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before dipping. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle.
7. Can I use a different type of chocolate for the coating?
Yes, feel free to use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate, depending on your preference.
8. Can I make these peanut butter balls in advance?
Yes, these peanut butter balls are perfect for making ahead of time. You can make them a few days in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer.
9. Can I add flavorings to the peanut butter filling?
You can add a pinch of cinnamon, a bit of honey, or even a dash of sea salt to enhance the flavor of the filling.
10. How do I make these peanut butter balls gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or substitute them with gluten-free rice cereal.
Conclusion
Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls are the perfect treat for anyone who loves the classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate. Easy to make with no baking required, they’re an ideal sweet snack for any occasion. With their creamy peanut butter center and rich chocolate coating, these little bites are sure to disappear quickly. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, a party, or just as a special treat for yourself, they’re a surefire way to satisfy your cravings!
PrintChocolate Peanut Butter Balls
Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls are an irresistible treat that combines creamy peanut butter with a smooth chocolate coating. These no-bake bites are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and are easy to make, making them a great option for holidays, parties, or any time you want a delicious snack!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 24-30 balls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or shortening)
Instructions
Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs, stirring until fully incorporated. The mixture should be thick and dough-like.
- Stir in the vanilla extract to add extra flavor.
- Form the Balls:
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the peanut butter mixture into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once all the balls are formed, refrigerate them for about 30 minutes to help them firm up. - Prepare the Chocolate Coating:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with vegetable oil (or shortening) in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely smooth and melted. - Dip the Balls in Chocolate:
Using a fork or toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Tap the fork gently on the edge of the bowl to remove any excess chocolate, then return the chocolate-coated peanut butter ball to the parchment-lined baking sheet. - Set the Chocolate:
Once all the peanut butter balls are coated, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set and firm. - Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chocolate is set, your chocolate peanut butter balls are ready to serve! Enjoy immediately or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Refrigerating the peanut butter balls before dipping helps them hold their shape better and makes the dipping process easier.
- These are best enjoyed after they’ve been refrigerated, as the chocolate coating will remain firm and the peanut butter filling stays creamy.
- Feel free to add your own flavor twists, like a pinch of cinnamon or sea salt, to the peanut butter filling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
