Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls
Yield: About 36–40 balls
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups crispy rice cereal (optional, for crunch)
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother coating)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, beat together:
- Peanut butter
- Softened butter
- Vanilla
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until fully combined.
- Fold in the crispy rice cereal if using.
Step 2: Shape
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture.
- Roll into smooth balls.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Chill
- Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes or freeze for 15–20 minutes.
Step 4: Melt Chocolate
- Microwave chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring each time.
- Stir in coconut oil if using.
Step 5: Coat
- Dip each chilled ball into melted chocolate using a fork or dipping tool.
- Let excess chocolate drip off.
- Place back on parchment paper.
Step 6: Set
- Refrigerate 20–30 minutes until the chocolate hardens.
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Ball)
Based on 40 servings.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 115 |
| Total Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 5 mg |
| Sodium | 40 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 11 g |
| Sugar | 9 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Protein | 2–3 g |
Nutrition will vary depending on ingredients and serving size.
Nut Information
Contains:
- Peanuts
- Milk (butter and milk chocolate)
- Soy (many chocolate chips contain soy lecithin)
May Contain (depending on brands):
- Tree nuts
- Wheat
- Sesame
To Make Nut-Free
Replace peanut butter with:
- Sunflower seed butter
- Cookie butter (contains wheat)
- Tahini (sesame; not suitable for those with sesame allergy)
Use allergy-friendly chocolate if needed.
Storage
Refrigerator
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips
- Chill the filling well before dipping to help the balls hold their shape.
- Use a cookie scoop for even-sized portions.
- Avoid overheating the chocolate; stir frequently while melting.
- Sprinkle with sea salt, chopped peanuts, or festive sprinkles before the coating sets for extra flavor and decoration.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes. It gives the filling additional texture.
Q: Can I use dark chocolate?
Absolutely. Dark, milk, or white chocolate all work well.
Q: Why are my balls too soft?
The mixture may need more powdered sugar or additional chilling time.
Q: Can I make them without butter?
Yes. You can substitute with a plant-based butter, though the texture may be slightly different.
Q: Can I freeze them?
Yes. Freeze in a sealed container with parchment paper between layers for up to 3 months.
Q: Are these gluten-free?
They can be if all ingredients, including the crispy rice cereal and chocolate chips, are certified gluten-free.
Q: Are they suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, provided the chocolate does not contain animal-derived additives.
Q: Can I add other mix-ins?
Yes. Popular additions include mini chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, shredded coconut, or finely crushed pretzels.
