Description
These No Bake Peanut Butter Balls are a delicious and easy-to-make treat combining creamy peanut butter, buttery graham cracker crumbs, and a smooth chocolate coating. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, these bite-sized delights require no baking and can be prepared and chilled within 40 minutes. Ideal for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet, peanutty indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Peanut Butter Mixture
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups crushed graham cracker crumbs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Coating
- 12 oz semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother coating)
Instructions
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, crushed graham cracker crumbs, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until a thick, uniform dough forms.
- Shape the Peanut Butter Balls: Scoop out small portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls using your hands. Lay the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy handling.
- Chill the Balls: Place the baking sheet with the peanut butter balls in the refrigerator or freezer for 30 to 60 minutes, allowing them to firm up and hold their shape better during dipping.
- Melt the Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and optional coconut oil or shortening. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until the mixture is completely smooth and melted.
- Dip the Peanut Butter Balls: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Let excess chocolate drip off before placing it back on the parchment-lined sheet.
- Set the Chocolate: Refrigerate the coated peanut butter balls for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm and set.
- Storage: Keep the finished peanut butter balls in an airtight container refrigerated until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Add a pinch of salt or use salted butter if your peanut butter is unsalted, to enhance flavor.
- For added texture and decoration, sprinkle crushed peanuts, sea salt, or colorful sprinkles on top of the chocolate coating before it sets.
- Ensure peanut butter balls are fully chilled for easier dipping and to prevent melting of the chocolate coating.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to one week for maximum freshness.
