Peanut Butter Balls are tasty little treats made with creamy peanut butter, oatmeal, and a hint of sweetness. They’re simple to whip up and perfect for snack time!
These balls are so fun to make, and they disappear quickly around here. I like to add a sprinkle of chocolate chips for an extra yummy touch. Who can resist peanut butter and chocolate? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Creamy Peanut Butter: This is the star of the show! Natural peanut butter works great, but you might want it a bit creamier. If you’re allergic to peanuts, try almond or sunflower butter as tasty substitutes.
Powdered Sugar: It adds sweetness and helps bind the mixture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use coconut sugar, but the texture will be slightly different. Just add a little more peanut butter if needed!
Unsalted Butter: Keeps the mix creamy and smooth. You can switch it out for coconut oil if you’re looking for a dairy-free version. Just remember to soften it slightly.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: A classic for coating these balls! Dark chocolate chips are a good substitute if you prefer less sweetness. You could use milk chocolate or even white chocolate, whichever appeals to you!
How Do You Properly Coat Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate?
Coating peanut butter balls in chocolate can be tricky if you’re new to it. Here are some simple tips to ensure that your chocolate coating is smooth and even:
- First, make sure your peanut butter balls are firm. Freezing them helps the chocolate coat better.
- Melt the chocolate in short bursts to avoid burning. Stir well between each interval until it’s silky smooth.
- Use a fork or toothpick to help dip the balls into the melted chocolate. This keeps your hands clean and gives a nice even coat.
- Tap gently on the side of the bowl after lifting the ball out to let excess chocolate drip off before placing it on the baking sheet.
- For a decorative touch, sprinkle crushed peanuts on top while the chocolate is still wet!
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly coated peanut butter balls ready to impress your friends and family!
Peanut Butter Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon shortening or coconut oil (optional, for smooth melting)
- Crushed peanuts, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus 30 minutes for freezing and 1 hour for setting in the refrigerator. In a little over an hour and a half, you’ll have delicious peanut butter balls ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Peanut Butter Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together thoroughly until it’s smooth and creamy. This step is super important for a delicious base!
2. Shape the Balls:
Once your mixture is ready, use your hands to roll small portions into 1-inch balls. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps in easy removal after they’re coated.
3. Chill the Peanut Butter Balls:
Pop the baking sheet in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This helps the peanut butter balls firm up, making them easier to coat with chocolate later.
4. Melt the Chocolate:
While the peanut butter balls are chilling, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. If you’re using shortening or coconut oil, add that as well for a smoother consistency. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between each, until the chocolate is completely smooth.
5. Coat in Chocolate:
Take the peanut butter balls out of the freezer. Using a fork or toothpick, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, making sure it’s fully coated. Tap off any excess chocolate before placing it back on the parchment paper.
6. Add Optional Garnish:
If you’d like to add some flair, sprinkle crushed peanuts on top of the chocolate-coated balls while the chocolate is still wet. This adds a nice crunch and presentation!
7. Set in the Fridge:
Once all the balls are coated, refrigerate them for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is fully set. This will give them the perfect texture!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
After the chocolate has set, your peanut butter balls are ready to enjoy! Serve them chilled as a sweet treat any time of the day!
These delightful peanut butter balls are sure to be a hit, featuring a creamy center surrounded by rich chocolate and a bit of crunch on top. Enjoy your delicious creations!
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to stir it well to combine the oil and the nut paste. Natural peanut butter may result in a slightly different texture, but it will still taste delicious.
How Do I Store Leftover Peanut Butter Balls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to one week, although they’re usually eaten much faster than that!
Can I Use White Chocolate Instead of Semi-Sweet Chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with white chocolate or even dark chocolate for different flavor profiles. Just remember that melting times might vary, so keep an eye on it!
What Should I Do If the Chocolate Isn’t Melting Smoothly?
If your chocolate is clumping or not melting well, try adding a little more shortening or coconut oil. These fats can help create a smoother consistency. Also, ensure you’re using a microwave-safe bowl and avoid overheating the chocolate.
