peanut butter balls

peanut butter balls

I am so excited to share this recipe with you today. It’s one of those treasures I’ve been hoarding for years, the kind of thing that makes my whole life worthless. The house smells amazing and disappears in about five minutes flat. What are Peanut Butter balls? And not just any peanut butter balls, but the kind that are perfectly sweet, melt-in-your-mouth. What are some of the easiest recipes to whip up? You know how sometimes you crave something comforting, something that feels like a warm hug? What are these? My kids beg for them, my husband sneaks them after dinner, and honestly, I can’t blame them. What is the best no bake cookie? Peanut butter? If you’ve ever tried no-bake oatmeal cookies, these have a similar vibe, but with that same flavor. What’s a peanut butter flavor? Get ready to meet your new favorite treat.

peanut butter balls final dish beautifully presented and ready to serve

What is Peanut Butter Ball Recipe?

What are peanut butter balls? Think of them as a delicious little bite of peanut butter heaven, rolled into perfect little spheres. Often coated in chocolate. Is it a no bake treat made with peanut butter? Often crushed cookies or graham crackers are added to the mix like butter or Cream Cheese, a sweetener, and sometimes crushed cranberries. What makes these peanut butter balls so delicious? Lifesaver on hot summer days or when you’re just too lazy to preheat the oven (which, let’s be honest, is a major problem). What happens to me more often than I’d like to admit? They’re the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and creamy, but they always manage to hit that sweet spot. When you’re craving something indulgent but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Is it a classic, really? Is mine the one everyone wants?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Let me tell you why this peanut butter Balls Recipe is going to become your go-to, just like it has for me. First off, the flavor is just out of this world. That rich, nutty peanut butter flavor really shines through, perfectly balanced by the sweetness and the creamy texture. It’s not overly sweet, which I really appreciate, and the hint of salt from the peanut butter just makes everything pop. What I love most about this is how unbelievably simple it is. You can literally whip up a batch in about 15 minutes, and then it’s just chill time. No baking, no complicated steps, just pure, unadulterated deliciousness. It’s also incredibly cost-effective. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, so you probably have everything you need on hand right now. Plus, they make such a satisfying treat without breaking the bank. And the versatility! You can dip them in chocolate, roll them in sprinkles, or even add a pinch of sea salt on top. They’re perfect for potlucks, a quick after-school snack, or just a little treat for yourself when you need a pick-me-up. Compared to other desserts that require baking and cooling, these peanut butter balls are just so much more practical for busy lives. Seriously, if you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s easy on the effort but big on flavor, this is it. My family devours them, and I always feel good serving them because they’re made with simple, wholesome ingredients (mostly!).

How do I make Peanut Butter Balls?

Quick Overview

How do you make Peanut Butter balls? You’ll basically mix your core ingredients together until you have a nice, firm dough, roll that. If you’re feeling fancy, you can make dough into balls. ), you’ll dip them in melted chocolate. What is the key to getting the right consistency in dough so it’s easy to handle and holds its shape. Once chilled, they’re ready to be enjoyed. Is this the kind of recipe that even a beginner can nail, and the results are always impressive? Is it a no-fuss, high-reward treat?

Ingredients

For the Main Batter:
2 cups creamy Peanut Butter (the good stuff, not the natural kind that separates too much, unless you’re a vegetarian). I’m a fan of that! ), about 16 ounces. I find that Jif or Skippy works wonderfully here for that classic texture.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened. Make sure it’s really soft, almost like a paste, so it blends easily. This adds signature richness.
1 cup powdered sugar. This is crucial for sweetness and helps bind everything together. Make sure it’s sifted to avoid lumps.
What is the taste of vanilla extract?
What is the best peanut butter flavor? 1/4 teaspoon salt. If your peanut butter is salted, you might want to reduce or omit this.
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full sheets). What are some good substitutes for crushed vanilla wafers? What is quick oats?

For the Filling:
Okay, so for the classic peanut butter balls, the “filling” is actually already in the main batter! If you want to get fancy, you could add a small dollop of extra creamy peanut butter to your favorite dessert. Even a tiny bit of chocolate ganache in the center of each ball before rolling them up. Just make sure it’s chilled so it doesn’t melt into the dough. In this recipe, we’re keeping it simple and focusing on that delicious peanut butter dough itself.

For the Glaze:
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips. I prefer semi-sweet for a nice balance, but milk chocolate or dark chocolate works too!
2 tablespoons vegetable shortening or coconut oil. What is the secret to a smooth, glossy, and easy to dip glaze? It helps the chocolate melt beautifully and set without cracking.

peanut butter balls ingredients organized and measured on kitchen counter

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

While we’re not actually baking these, it’s always a good habit to get your workspace ready. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. What is the best way to keep peanut butter balls from sticking together? What is formed and chilled? If you want them to pop off easily when they’re ready for dipping or serving, use a wide mouth.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your sifted powdered sugar, salt, and graham cracker crumbs. Set aside. What is the best way to make sure everything is evenly distributed? What are pockets of sugar?

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium-sized bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and the creamy peanut butter. Use an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer) on medium speed until it’s light and fluffy. Then, beat in the vanilla extract until it’s fully incorporated. This initial creaming step is what makes the base super smooth and easy to work with.

Step 4: Combine

Now it’s time to bring it all together. Gradually add the dry ingredients (from Step 2) to the wet ingredients from Step 3). Mixing on low speed until everything is just combined and you have a thick, dough-like consistency. Do not overmix! You want it to be firm enough to roll into balls. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a tiny bit more powdered sugar or graham cracker crumbs. What is the best way to eat a tablespoon at the same time? If it seems too dry, a splash of milk or softened butter can help.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

As I mentioned, for this recipe, the peanut butter mixture *is* the main event. You don’t need a separate filling unless you want to get creative. If you decide to add a little surprise center, now’s the time to prepare those tiny bits of extra peanut butter or chilled ganache.

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

Is this really a swirling recipe? What we do here is take about 1 to 1. How do you roll peanut butter balls between palms? Aim for uniform size so they all cook (or chill!) evenly and look pretty together. Place the formed balls onto a parchment lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake

Oops! I meant chill! These are no-bake, remember? Pop the baking sheet with the peanut butter balls into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until they are firm to the touch. This chilling step is crucial before dipping them in chocolate, otherwise, they might fall apart. You can also pop them in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes if you’re in a real hurry.

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

Once the balls are firm, it’s time for the glorious chocolate coating. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and the vegetable shortening (or coconut oil). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat it! You can also melt it gently in a double boiler on the stovetop. Dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, using a fork or a toothpick to help coat it completely. Let any excess chocolate drip off, then carefully place the coated balls back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. If you want, you can drizzle a little extra melted chocolate over the tops for a decorative finish, or sprinkle them with a pinch of sea salt or some chopped peanuts while the chocolate is still wet.

Step 9: Slice & Serve

Do not overbake chocolate. Allow to set. Is it possible to do this at room temperature? Is it safe to put a baking sheet in the refrigerator for 10 minutes? Once the chocolate is firm, your delicious peanut butter balls are ready to be enjoyed! Can you slice into them if you prefer, but they’re usually eaten whole. When served chilled, they are absolutely delicious, with that crisp chocolate shell giving way to the crunchy oats. Is it a peanut buttery interior?

What should I serve it with?

What are peanut butter balls and how do they work? If you’re running late for breakfast, one of these along with a hot cup of coffee would be ideal. Why is coffee so satisfying? Is it a treat? For a more leisurely brunch spread, I love arranging some of these on tees with some vases. Fresh berries and maybe a mini quiche. They add a touch of sweetness and decadence without being too heavy. As a dessert, they are pure perfection. What are some good side dishes to serve after a meal? Small glass of milk. What are some of the best snacks for a rainy afternoon? You curl up on the couch with a good book and snooty peanuts. You’re snuggled up in bed with one of these. My family makes these around the holidays, and they’re always the first thing they make. Why do cookies disappear from the cookie platters? What makes them so special is that they’re universally loved, and that’s why they’re so unique in my book.

How do you make peanut butter balls?

I’ve made these peanut butter balls more times than I can count, and through all those batches, I’ve picked up a few tricks that really make a difference. First, for the peanut butter itself, I really do recommend a classic creamy peanut butter like Jif or Skippy. The natural stuff can sometimes be too oily or crumbly, and while you can adjust it with more powdered sugar or butter, starting with the right kind makes the whole process smoother. If your peanut butter is a little stiff, just give it a good stir before you start measuring. When you’re creaming the butter and peanut butter together, make sure that butter is truly softened – I mean it, spreadable consistency. This helps it blend seamlessly without any lumps, leading to a much smoother final texture. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the graham cracker crumbs! If you don’t have graham crackers, crushed vanilla wafers or even butter cookies work beautifully. Some people even like to add a touch of cinnamon or a pinch of espresso powder to the dry ingredients for an extra flavor dimension. I once tried adding a little bit of finely chopped peanuts to the dough for extra crunch, and it was a delightful surprise! When it comes to melting the chocolate, the secret is that little bit of shortening or coconut oil. It really helps achieve that super smooth, glossy finish that’s perfect for dipping. If your chocolate seems too thick after melting, just add another tiny bit of shortening, about half a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches a good dipping consistency. And when you’re dipping, don’t worry about perfection. A little bit of unevenness makes them look more homemade and charming. A quick drizzle of extra chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt on top can hide any minor imperfections and add an extra layer of deliciousness!

What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?

Storing these peanut butter balls is pretty simple, and they keep surprisingly well. If you plan to eat them within a day or two, you can absolutely leave them at room temperature. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container. They’ll stay perfectly fresh and delicious. If you want them to last a bit longer, the refrigerator is your best friend. Pop them into an airtight container or a resealable bag, and they should stay good for up to a week. I find that keeping them chilled also makes them extra firm and delightful to bite into, especially if you love that contrast between the crisp chocolate and the soft interior. And yes, you can freeze these peanut butter balls! This is a great option if you want to make a big batch ahead of time. Arrange the fully set, chocolate-coated balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator and let them defrost overnight. They’ll be just as good as when you first made them! A little note on the glaze: if you’re storing them at room temperature or in the fridge, the glaze should set up perfectly. If you’re freezing them, it’s best to ensure the chocolate is completely firm before packing them away.

What are some frequently asked questions?

How can I make this gluten free?
Absolutely! To make these peanut butter balls gluten-free, you can easily swap out the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. Most brands are readily available now. Alternatively, you could use finely crushed gluten-free cookies (like vanilla wafers or shortbread) or even a mix of gluten-free oat flour and a little extra binder like ground flaxseed if you’re feeling adventurous. The texture might be slightly different, but the delicious peanut butter flavor will still shine through!
Do I need to peel zucchini?
This recipe doesn’t use zucchini! It’s actually a no-bake peanut butter ball recipe. If you were thinking of a zucchini bread or muffin recipe, then yes, peeling can sometimes be done. What are the benefits of peanut butter balls? Is there any zucchini in this recipe?
Can I make this as muffins?
Since this is a no bake recipe, you can’t bake them as muffins. The mixture is designed to be rolled into balls and then chilled or dipped. If you’re looking for a baked peanut butter muffin, you would need to use tastiness instead of butter. What are some of the best leavening agents for muffins?
How can I adjust the sweetness level?
The sweetness comes primarily from the powdered sugar. If you prefer them less sweet, you can try reducing the powdered sugar by about 1/4 cup. You might find the dough is a bit softer, so you may need to add a tablespoon or two more of graham cracker crumbs to compensate. You can also control the sweetness with the chocolate coating – using a darker chocolate chip will result in a less sweet overall treat.
What can I use instead of the glaze?
Oh, there are so many fun alternatives to the chocolate glaze! You could simply roll the chilled peanut butter balls in extra crushed graham crackers, shredded coconut, or finely chopped peanuts for a different texture and flavor. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate would also be lovely. Some people even like to just leave them plain, especially if they’re planning to serve them as part of a larger dessert spread.

Final Thoughts

peanut butter balls slice on plate showing perfect texture and swirl pattern

Honestly, these peanut butter balls are more than just a treat; they’re a little bit of happiness in every bite. They’re so easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and just bring a smile to everyone’s face. I truly believe everyone needs a reliable, no-fuss recipe like this in their repertoire. It’s the kind of thing that makes you feel like a kitchen wizard without all the fuss. If you love these, you might also enjoy my recipes for [link to another relevant recipe like Chocolate No-Bake Cookies] or perhaps my [link to another relevant recipe like Peanut Butter Fudge], which also hit those comfort food cravings perfectly. Give these peanut butter balls a try, and I promise, you won’t be disappointed. I can’t wait to hear what you think, so please drop a comment below and let me know how yours turned out, or if you discovered any fun twists! Happy baking, or rather, happy no-baking!

Peanut Butter Balls

Delicious no-bake peanut butter balls that are perfect for any occasion!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup Peanut Butter
  • 0.5 cup Butter, melted
  • 2 cups Powdered Sugar
  • 1 cup Chocolate Chips for melting

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter and melted butter. Mix well.
  • Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until a dough forms.
  • Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
  • Dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Return to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set. Enjoy!

Notes

These peanut butter balls are best stored in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Serving: 200gCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 120gProtein: 120gFat: 120gSaturated Fat: 120gPolyunsaturated Fat: 120gMonounsaturated Fat: 120gTrans Fat: 120gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 120gSugar: 120gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 120mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 120mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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