Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls Recipe

Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls are a delicious and easy-to-make treat, perfect for any occasion. These bite-sized confections combine the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, creating a sweet and salty delight that’s sure to satisfy any craving. Here’s a step-by-step recipe to help you create these irresistible treats at home.

Ingredients:

• For the peanut butter filling:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  For the chocolate coating:
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons shortening or coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)

Instructions:

Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and softened butter. Mix until smooth and well combined.
• Add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar to the mixture. Stir until fully incorporated. The mixture should be thick but workable.
• Using your hands, roll the peanut butter mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Once all the balls are formed, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to chill and firm up the balls.

Melt the Chocolate:

• In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and shortening or coconut oil (if using). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
• Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate in a double boiler over simmering water, stirring until smooth.

Coat the Peanut Butter Balls:

• Remove the chilled peanut butter balls from the refrigerator.
• Using a fork or a toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the coated ball back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
• If desired, you can drizzle additional melted chocolate over the top of the coated balls for a decorative finish.

Chill the Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls:

• Once all the balls are coated in chocolate, place the baking sheet back in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.

Serve and Store:

• After the chocolate has hardened, the Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls are ready to be enjoyed!
• Store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Tips and Variations:

• Peanut Butter Crunch: For added texture, stir in some crushed pretzels or rice cereal into the peanut butter mixture before rolling into balls.
• Dark Chocolate: If you prefer a richer flavor, use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate.
• Decorations: For a festive touch, sprinkle the tops of the coated balls with colored sprinkles, crushed nuts, or sea salt before the chocolate sets.
• Almond Butter Substitute: You can substitute almond butter or another nut butter if you prefer a different flavor.

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls are perfect for holiday gifts, parties, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home. With their creamy peanut butter center and rich chocolate coating, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter. Enjoy!