If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s delightfully nostalgic and impossible to resist, look no further than Peanut Butter Balls. These no-bake bites are the perfect marriage of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’ll have you sneaking “just one more” from the fridge. Whether you grew up making these for holiday cookie trays or you’re discovering them for the first time, Peanut Butter Balls are a classic for good reason—they come together quickly, require no oven, and disappear even faster than you’d think!

Peanut Butter Balls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of pantry staples to make Peanut Butter Balls, but don’t underestimate their magic—each ingredient plays an important role in creating the signature taste and texture. Here’s what you need and why you need it:

Creamy Peanut Butter: The star of the show, providing the rich, nutty base and creamy texture.
Unsalted Butter, Softened: Adds extra smoothness and a subtle richness that balances the sweetness.
Vanilla Extract: Brings a warm, aromatic note that enhances the peanut butter’s flavor.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the mixture and helps bind everything together into a dough you can roll.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: The classic coating—bittersweet and glossy, they perfectly contrast the peanut butter center.
Coconut Oil or Shortening (Optional): Just a touch makes the melted chocolate coating extra smooth and shiny.

How to Make Peanut Butter Balls

Step 1: Mix the Peanut Butter Filling

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Use a sturdy spoon or hand mixer to blend until the mixture is completely smooth. This is the foundation of your Peanut Butter Balls, so take a moment to enjoy the dreamy aroma!

Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar

Gradually add the powdered sugar to the bowl, mixing well after each addition. The mixture will start out soft but will soon transform into a thick, slightly stiff dough that easily holds its shape. If it feels too sticky to roll, add a bit more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time.

Step 3: Shape into Balls

Scoop out small portions of the dough (about 1 inch each) and roll between your palms to form smooth, round balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step is especially fun for little helpers—just try not to eat too many as you go!

Step 4: Chill Until Firm

Pop the tray into the refrigerator and chill the balls for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures they’re firm enough to dip in chocolate without falling apart. Don’t rush it—chilling is key for picture-perfect Peanut Butter Balls.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until the chocolate is completely melted and glossy. The coconut oil helps the chocolate coat the balls smoothly and gives a beautiful sheen.

Step 6: Dip and Set

Using a fork or toothpick, dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, letting any excess drip off before returning it to the parchment-lined sheet. Once all the balls are coated, pop them back in the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes until the chocolate is set and irresistibly snappy.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Balls

Garnishes

Give your Peanut Butter Balls a special touch with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, a drizzle of melted white chocolate, or a dusting of crushed peanuts. These little extras add visual flair and a pop of flavor that makes each bite feel extra festive.

Side Dishes

Pair these sweet bites with a cold glass of milk, a mug of hot cocoa, or a cup of dark coffee. Their rich, creamy centers and crisp chocolate shell make them a perfect companion to both warm and cool drinks for an afternoon pick-me-up or a holiday dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack Peanut Butter Balls in a pretty jar for an edible gift, arrange them in mini cupcake liners for a party platter, or skewer them on lollipop sticks for a fun treat at kids’ parties. However you present them, they’re guaranteed to disappear quickly!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Peanut Butter Balls fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to two weeks—if they last that long! The cold keeps the chocolate shell crisp and the centers perfectly creamy.

Freezing

Want to make a big batch ahead of time? Peanut Butter Balls freeze beautifully! Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll keep for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating

No reheating needed for these no-bake wonders! If you prefer a softer center, simply let the Peanut Butter Balls sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a wonderful nutty texture to the centers. Just be aware that the mixture may be slightly harder to roll, so chill it a bit longer if needed.

What’s the best way to dip the balls in chocolate?

Using a fork or toothpick makes it easy to dip each ball in chocolate and tap off the excess. You can also use a candy dipping tool if you have one, but a regular fork works like a charm!

How can I make these Peanut Butter Balls dairy-free?

Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips. The taste and texture will still be delicious, making these treats suitable for everyone.

Can I make Peanut Butter Balls ahead of time?

Definitely! These are perfect for making in advance—just store them in the fridge or freezer and they’ll be ready whenever your sweet tooth strikes or guests drop by.

Why did my chocolate coating crack?

Cracking usually happens when the balls are too cold and the chocolate is too hot. Allow the Peanut Butter Balls to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before dipping, and let the chocolate cool slightly after melting for a flawless finish.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a late-night craving, Peanut Butter Balls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and experience just how irresistible homemade treats can be—don’t be surprised if they vanish from the plate in no time!

Peanut Butter Balls Recipe

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4.6 from 7 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 30 peanut butter balls 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicious no-bake peanut butter balls coated in rich semi-sweet chocolate, perfect for an easy and satisfying dessert or holiday treat that requires minimal ingredients and preparation time.

Ingredients

Scale

Peanut Butter Mixture

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar

Chocolate Coating

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother coating)

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Instructions

Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the mixture, mixing thoroughly until a thick and pliable dough forms.
Form Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Chill: Refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes, or until they are firm enough to handle for coating.
Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring after each until smooth and fully melted.
Coat Balls: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Set Chocolate: Refrigerate the coated peanut butter balls for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chocolate coating is completely set and firm.

Notes

Store peanut butter balls in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.
For longer storage, freeze the balls and thaw before serving.
Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for a nutty texture variation.
Decorate with a drizzle of white chocolate for an elegant presentation.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American