Few treats strike the perfect balance between indulgence, simplicity, and pure nostalgia quite like Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls. Imagine biting through a snappy chocolate shell into a soft, creamy, peanutty center—the kind of bite that draws happy “mmm” noises from even the most sophisticated palates. Whether you’re pulling together a quick holiday platter or just treating yourself to something sweet and satisfying, this beloved no-bake recipe is about to become your go-to for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love most about these Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls is just how approachable the ingredients are. Each one offers its own magic, lending flavor, texture, or beautiful finish to every bite. Here’s exactly what you’ll need (and a few tips to help them truly shine):
- Creamy peanut butter: Go for the classic; its smooth texture creates the irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth centers.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and helps the dough come together perfectly—make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Powdered sugar: Not just for sweetness—it binds everything together and creates that fudge-like texture we crave.
- Vanilla extract: A little brings warmth and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: These provide the glossy, snappy coating; choose a quality brand for best flavor.
- Coconut oil or shortening (optional): Just a touch smooths and silkens the melted chocolate for super easy dipping and a glossy shine.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls
Step 1: Mix the Peanut Butter Base
Start by combining your creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar in a large bowl. Use a sturdy spoon or hand mixer to blend everything together. At first, the mixture may seem crumbly, but as you keep stirring, it comes together into a thick, smooth dough that holds its shape. This is the heart of your Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls—it should be pliable but not sticky. If you want a little crunch, now’s the time to add crushed graham crackers or rice cereal.
Step 2: Shape into Balls
Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough per ball—aim for 1-inch rounds. Roll each one between your palms until smooth and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This part feels wonderfully hands-on and brings out the kid in anyone! Give them a bit of space so they don’t stick together as they chill.
Step 3: Chill Until Firm
Pop your tray into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial! Chilling makes the balls firm enough to dip without falling apart, ensuring a neat, even chocolate coating later. If you’re in a hurry, the freezer can shave a bit off the chill time, but don’t skip it altogether.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using for extra smoothness). Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each interval, until melted and glossy. Stir well to make sure every chip is melted—silky chocolate is the secret to that picture-perfect finish.
Step 5: Dip and Coat
Working one at a time, use a fork, toothpick, or candy dipping tool to lower each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, turning to coat. Let any excess drip back into the bowl, then transfer the coated ball back to the parchment. Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls look classically elegant when fully coated, but you can also leave a small “peek” of peanut butter at the top for a buckeye-style effect—so cute!
Step 6: Chill Until Set
Once all balls are coated, return the baking sheet to the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes. The chocolate will set into that satisfying shell, locking in the creamy goodness inside. Now your batch of Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls is ready for snacking, gifting, or sneaking from the fridge late at night!
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of flaky sea salt, a drizzle of white chocolate, or a dash of festive sprinkles takes Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls from “yum” to jaw-dropping. You can also roll them in crushed peanuts or cocoa powder while the chocolate’s still tacky for an eye-catching (and tasty) touch.
Side Dishes
Complete your treat platter with an assortment of fresh berries, crisp apple slices, or even salty pretzels for irresistible contrast. On special occasions, set out a plate of these alongside a hot mug of coffee or homemade hot chocolate—for a holiday dessert table, they pair beautifully with frosted sugar cookies and spiced nuts.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation elevates the experience! Arrange Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls in mini cupcake liners for a party-ready display or tier them on a cake stand for a dazzling centerpiece. For gifting, tuck them into decorative tins or small mason jars lined with tissue. You can even thread a few onto skewers and wrap them in cellophane for a cheerful (and edible!) bouquet.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any uneaten Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week, and the cold keeps their chocolate shell crisp and centers creamy. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment or wax paper, so they don’t stick together.
Freezing
Want to get a head-start on holiday baking or just save some for a rainy day? These freeze beautifully! Place the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Allow them to thaw in the fridge for the best texture before serving.
Reheating
No need to reheat—these blissful bites are meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you want to take the chill off, let them rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for extra creamy centers.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter for Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls?
You can, but creamy, classic peanut butter yields the smoothest texture and binds with the powdered sugar more easily. If using natural, make sure to stir well and be aware the balls may be softer, so a little extra chilling time may help.
What’s the best way to dip the balls without making a mess?
A fork or toothpick gives you control and lets excess chocolate drip off, but a candy dipping tool works great too. Be sure your balls are well-chilled before dipping, and keep a bit of parchment below for easy cleanup.
Can I make Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use your favorite plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips. If your peanut butter is runnier, add a touch more powdered sugar, and use a vegan shortening instead of butter for structure.
Why did my chocolate coating crack or look dull?
This usually happens if the balls are very cold and the chocolate is hot, causing it to set too quickly. Let your dipped balls rest at room temperature for a minute or two after coating, or ensure your melted chocolate isn’t piping hot when you start.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
For sure! Just mix and chill in two batches if your mixing bowl is small. Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls are an ideal make-ahead treat for potlucks, holiday trays, or high-energy snackers in your house.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a treat that dazzles on every occasion yet couldn’t be easier to whip up, these Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls check every box. I hope you try them soon—don’t be surprised if they quickly disappear (and get plenty of repeat requests)! Happy snacking, sharing, and indulging.
Print
Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 24 balls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls for a sweet treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a delightful no-bake dessert.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Mixture:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Coating:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate coating)
Instructions
- Prepare Peanut Butter Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until a thick dough forms.
- Shape into Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
- Coat Peanut Butter Balls: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the coated balls back on the parchment-lined sheet.
- Chill and Serve: Once all are dipped, refrigerate again for 15–20 minutes until the chocolate is set.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, add 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers or rice cereal to the peanut butter mixture.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
