Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Balls
Last weekend, after a whirlwind of sports and school projects, chocolate covered peanut butter balls became our sweet savior. These little bites of joy are what I turn to when the family needs a treat that’s both quick and guaranteed to disappear fast. They blend the creamy richness of peanut butter with the silky smoothness of chocolate, creating a dessert that feels special without the hassle. Alex and Sarah gave it two thumbs up, each licking chocolate off their fingers while Donald simply nodded in satisfaction — a rare unanimous family approval!
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If you're into easy-to-make desserts that delight everyone, check out our gluten-free lemon crinkle cookies.
Why you’ll love this recipe
Imagine biting into a candy that’s both rich and easy to make. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or when guests pop by unexpectedly. With minimal ingredients and no oven required, it’s the perfect mix of quick prep and delicious results. Plus, the kids can help roll and dip, turning it into a delightful family activity.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups peanut butter, creamy (regular, not natural)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon shortening
Step-by-step instructions
In a stand mixer with the whisk attachment, mix together the butter, vanilla, salt, and peanut butter until combined. On medium speed, add 1 cup of powdered sugar at a time, waiting until it's combined before adding the next cup. Scrape around the bottom and sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed in. Using your hands, roll 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
Add the chocolate chips and shortening to a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring each time, until chocolate chips are melted and smooth (about 2 minutes). Use a fork to dip each peanut butter ball into the chocolate, letting excess chocolate drip off, and gently scraping the bottom of the fork against the bowl. Place back onto the sheet pan.
Allow the chocolate balls to set in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
Recipe tips & variations
If you’re out of semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips work wonderfully too. Also, a pinch of sea salt on top before the chocolate sets can add a delightful contrast to the sweetness. Experiment with chunky peanut butter for a different texture or add a splash of bourbon to the chocolate for a mature twist.
Storage & reheating
Store these chocolate covered peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This keeps them firm yet deliciously creamy when you bite in. If you’ve got a big batch and want to spread out the joy, they freeze beautifully. Just defrost overnight in the fridge before serving.
FAQs
How do you make chocolate covered peanut butter balls at home?
Simply mix your peanut butter, butter, and powdered sugar, then roll into balls. Chill, dip in melted chocolate, and enjoy!
Can you freeze chocolate covered peanut butter balls for later?
Yes, freezing works great! Make sure to layer them with wax paper in a container to prevent sticking.
Why should you chill peanut butter balls before dipping them in chocolate?
Chilling helps the balls firm up, making the chocolate coating process easier and less messy.
What type of peanut butter works best for chocolate covered peanut butter balls?
Regular creamy peanut butter is best. Avoid natural variations as they tend to be too oily and affect the texture.
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These chocolate covered peanut butter balls are bound to become a family staple. Happy cooking!
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Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Balls
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 24 balls 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Learn how to make easy and delicious chocolate covered peanut butter balls that are a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups peanut butter, creamy (regular, not natural)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon shortening
Instructions
- In a stand mixer with the whisk attachment, mix together the butter, vanilla, salt, and peanut butter until combined.
- On medium speed, add 1 cup of powdered sugar at a time, waiting until it's combined before adding the next cup. Scrape around the bottom and sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed in.
- Using your hands, roll 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
- Add the chocolate chips and shortening to a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring each time, until chocolate chips are melted and smooth (about 2 minutes).
- Use a fork to dip each peanut butter ball into the chocolate, letting excess chocolate drip off, and gently scraping the bottom of the fork against the bowl. Place back onto the sheet pan.
- Allow the chocolate balls to set in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
Notes
- If you’re out of semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips work wonderfully too.
- A pinch of sea salt on top before the chocolate sets can add a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
- Experiment with chunky peanut butter for a different texture or add a splash of bourbon to the chocolate for a mature twist.
- Store these chocolate covered peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
