Description
Easy no-bake peanut butter balls dipped in rich chocolate. A perfect sweet treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 cups powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening (or coconut oil)
- Optional: Sprinkles, chopped nuts, or sea salt for topping
Instructions
- Cream the Butter and Peanut Butter: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes). Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, to the butter and peanut butter mixture. Mix on low speed after each addition until fully incorporated.
- Incorporate Vanilla and Salt: Add the vanilla extract and salt to the mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Check Consistency: The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape. If too soft, add more powdered sugar (1 tbsp at a time). If too dry, add a tiny bit of softened butter or peanut butter.
- Prepare Workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper.
- Roll the Balls: Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture. Roll between your palms to form a smooth ball.
- Place on Baking Sheet: Place the rolled peanut butter ball onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing evenly apart.
- Chill the Balls: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to an hour) to firm up.
- Choose Melting Method: Melt the chocolate using either a double boiler or the microwave.
- Double Boiler Method: Fill a saucepan with about an inch or two of water. Bring the water to a simmer over medium heat. Place a heatproof bowl (glass or stainless steel) on top of the saucepan, making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Add the chocolate chips and vegetable shortening (or coconut oil) to the bowl. Stir occasionally until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. The shortening helps to thin the chocolate and gives it a nice shine.
- Microwave Method: Place the chocolate chips and vegetable shortening (or coconut oil) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Be very careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can burn easily. If you see any signs of burning, stop immediately and stir vigorously.
- Maintain Chocolate Temperature: Keep the melted chocolate warm over the double boiler or in the microwave (on a very low power setting).
- Prepare Dipping Station: Have melted chocolate, chilled peanut butter balls, a clean baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and toppings ready.
- Dip the Peanut Butter Balls: Using a fork or dipping tools, carefully dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s completely coated. Gently tap off excess chocolate.
- Place on Baking Sheet: Place the chocolate-covered peanut butter ball onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Decorate (Optional): While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with desired toppings.
- Repeat: Repeat the dipping and decorating process with the remaining peanut butter balls.
- Chill Again: Place the baking sheet back in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.
- Serving: Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Storing: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Dusting (Optional): If the peanut butter balls become sticky after storing, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is properly softened for a smooth peanut butter mixture.
- Add powdered sugar gradually to prevent a “sugar explosion.”
- Chilling the peanut butter balls before dipping is crucial to prevent melting.
- Be careful not to overheat the chocolate when melting.
- Get creative with your toppings!
- If you don’t have shortening, coconut oil works as a substitute.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes