Looking for a dessert that's ridiculously easy to make and tastes absolutely amazing? These peanut butter chocolate balls are your answer! This no-bake treat combines creamy peanut butter filling with a rich chocolate coating, creating bite-sized snacks that everyone loves. Whether you're preparing for a holiday gathering or want to make homemade gifts, peanut butter chocolate balls deliver every single time.
The best part about peanut butter chocolate balls? You don't need fancy equipment or complicated techniques. Just mix, roll, dip, and chill; that's it! These chocolate covered peanut butter balls come together in under 30 minutes, and they're a freezer-friendly snack that lasts for weeks.
Background & Why This Recipe Stands Out
Peanut butter chocolate balls are a timeless holiday favorite, often found beside fudge and truffles on festive dessert platters. These sweet bites are a homemade twist on peanut butter cups, made with simple ingredients like peanut butter, powdered sugar, butter, and chocolate. The magic of peanut butter chocolate balls lies in their versatility ; add crushed pretzels, Rice Krispies, or chopped nuts for extra crunch.
With a creamy center and glossy chocolate shell, they strike the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Enjoy peanut butter chocolate balls with coffee, cocoa, or as part of a dessert board ; they’re a treat that’s simple, nostalgic, and irresistibly delicious.
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Ingredients
For the Peanut Butter Filling:
- Creamy peanut butter
- Powdered sugar
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Vanilla extract
- Salt
For the Chocolate Coating:
- Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- Coconut oil or shortening
Optional Add-Ins:
- Rice Krispies cereal
- Crushed pretzels
- Finely chopped peanuts
Substitutions:
- Certified gluten-free add-ins for a gluten-free version
- Natural peanut butter (adjust sweetness as needed)
- Vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan option
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture
- 1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix with a sturdy spoon or electric mixer on medium speed until completely smooth and well combined.
- 2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. The mixture will start out loose but will become thick and slightly crumbly; this is exactly what you want.
- 3. Once all the powdered sugar is incorporated, use your hands to knead the mixture for about 30 seconds. It should come together into a soft, playdough-like consistency that holds its shape when rolled. If it's too sticky, add 2-3 tablespoons more powdered sugar; if too dry, add a teaspoon of milk.
- 4. If using any crunchy add-ins like Rice Krispies or crushed pretzels, fold them in now until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 2: Roll into Balls
- 1. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent sticking.
- 2. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture and roll it between your palms to form a smooth ball, roughly 1 inch in diameter. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.
- 3. Repeat with the remaining mixture until you've formed all the balls. You should get approximately 40-45 peanut butter chocolate balls depending on size.
- 4. Place the baking sheets in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or in the freezer for 15 minutes. This chilling step is crucial; it firms up the balls so they're easier to dip in chocolate without falling apart.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
- 1. Add the chocolate chips and coconut oil (or shortening) to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. This usually takes 2-3 minutes total.
- 2. Alternatively, use a double boiler method: place a heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water (don't let the bowl touch the water), add the chocolate and coconut oil, and stir constantly until melted.
- 3. Let the melted chocolate cool for 2-3 minutes before dipping. If it's too hot, it will melt the peanut butter filling.
Step 4: Dip and Coat
- 1. Remove the chilled peanut butter balls from the refrigerator. Working with one ball at a time, drop it into the melted chocolate.
- 2. Using a fork or dipping tool, roll the ball around to coat it completely in chocolate. Lift it with the fork, letting excess chocolate drip back into the bowl.
- 3. Gently slide the chocolate covered peanut butter ball back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle with sea salt, crushed peanuts, or decorative sprinkles immediately before the chocolate sets.
- 4. Repeat with all the peanut butter balls. If the chocolate begins to thicken, reheat it briefly in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
- 5. Once all balls are coated, refrigerate them for 20-30 minutes until the chocolate shell is completely set and firm to the touch.
Expert Cooking Tips
Getting perfect chocolate peanut butter balls every time comes down to a few key techniques.
Temperature Control Always work with chilled peanut butter balls; warm filling will fall apart during dipping. If your kitchen is warm, work in batches and keep half the balls in the fridge. The melted chocolate should be warm but not hot; around 90-95°F is ideal.
Achieving the Perfect Coating
- Use a fork to lift balls out of chocolate, tapping the fork on the bowl's edge to remove excess
- For a thinner coating, add an extra tablespoon of coconut oil
- For thicker coating, dip each ball twice, letting the first layer set for 5 minutes
- Leave a small "foot" at the bottom; this helps them sit flat
Quick Tips
- Room temperature ingredients mix more easily
- Roll balls with slightly damp hands to prevent sticking
- If balls crack when dipping, they're too cold; let them sit out for 5 minutes
- If chocolate is too thick, add more coconut oil, one teaspoon at a time
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
These chocolate peanut butter balls are endlessly customizable to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
Flavor Variations
Try these creative twists to make your chocolate covered peanut butter balls even more exciting:
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls: Add 2-3 scoops of chocolate or vanilla protein powder to the filling and reduce powdered sugar by ½ cup for a protein-packed snack
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Truffles: Roll the coated balls in cocoa powder, crushed graham crackers, or finely chopped nuts for an elegant finish
- Crunchy Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies Chocolate: Fold in 1 cup of Rice Krispies for a satisfying crunch in every bite
- Mint Chocolate Version: Add ½ teaspoon peppermint extract to the filling and use dark chocolate for the coating
- Coffee-Infused: Mix 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder into the peanut butter mixture for a mocha flavor
Dietary Modifications
Adapt this chocolate peanut butter balls recipe to fit various dietary preferences:
- Sugar-Free: Replace powdered sugar with powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener and use sugar-free chocolate chips
- Keto-Friendly: Use natural peanut butter, sugar-free sweetener, and sugar-free dark chocolate; each ball will have approximately 3-4g net carbs
- Nut-Free: Substitute sunflower seed butter or cookie butter for peanut butter to make them allergy-friendly
- Higher Protein: Mix in ¼ cup of unflavored or vanilla protein powder and add a tablespoon of milk to maintain consistency
Coating Alternatives
Switch up the chocolate coating for variety:
- Use white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier taste
- Try a 50/50 mix of milk and dark chocolate for balanced flavor
- Drizzle with contrasting chocolate after the main coating sets for a decorative look
- Skip chocolate entirely and roll in crushed graham crackers, coconut flakes, or cocoa powder
Equipment Recommendations
You don't need specialized equipment to make perfect peanut butter chocolate balls, but these tools make the process smoother:
- Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients; a 4-quart bowl gives you plenty of room to mix without spilling
- Electric mixer (optional): Speeds up the mixing process, though a wooden spoon and some elbow grease work fine
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon: Ensures uniform sizing for professional-looking results
- Baking sheets: Two half-sheet pans are ideal for holding all the balls during chilling and setting
- Parchment paper or wax paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze
- Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler: For melting chocolate smoothly without scorching
- Dipping fork or regular fork: Helps coat the balls evenly and lifts them cleanly from the chocolate
- Airtight containers: For proper storage; these keep your treats fresh for weeks
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Proper storage keeps your chocolate peanut butter balls fresh and delicious for extended periods.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store peanut butter chocolate balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
- Layer them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Let them sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving for optimal texture.
Freezer Storage
These are a perfectly freezer-friendly snack that you can make weeks in advance.
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. They'll keep for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Meal Prep Strategy
Make a double batch during the holidays to have a homemade gift sweet treat ready anytime.
You can also prepare just the peanut butter filling in advance, shape it into balls, and freeze them uncoated for fresh-tasting chocolate covered peanut butter balls whenever you need them.
The Secret to Perfect Peanut Butter Chocolate Balls
Here’s an insider trick that makes peanut butter chocolate balls go from good to irresistible ; chill them twice. After forming the balls, give them the usual 30-minute chill, then once coated in chocolate, pop them in the freezer for 10 minutes before refrigerating. This quick freeze sets the chocolate perfectly, leaving a glossy, crack-free shell with that satisfying snap.
For the final flourish, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt over each one right after dipping. The salt enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a sweet-salty contrast that’s downright addictive. With this touch, your peanut butter chocolate balls look and taste like they came from a fancy chocolatier ; and your guests will think you’re a dessert genius.
FAQ
What are the 5 ingredients in peanut butter balls?
The five essential ingredients in peanut butter chocolate balls are creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and chocolate for coating.
Do chocolate peanut butter balls need to be refrigerated?
Yes ; peanut butter chocolate balls stay firm and fresh when kept in the fridge. They can sit out for 2–3 hours, but store leftovers refrigerated for up to two weeks.
Did they discontinue peanut butter Lindt?
While Lindt has occasionally discontinued seasonal flavors, making homemade peanut butter chocolate balls ensures you always have this delicious treat available.
What are the 4 ingredient breakfast balls?
Breakfast balls typically contain oats, peanut butter, honey, and protein powder. For a breakfast version of chocolate peanut butter balls, reduce the sugar and add rolled oats.
More Irresistible Protein Ball Recipes
If you loved peanut butter chocolate balls, you’ll want to try these other no-bake protein ball recipes that are just as irresistible. Cottage Cheese Protein Balls offer a high-protein, lower-sugar option perfect for post-workout snacks, while Oatmeal Peanut Butter Protein Balls bring a breakfast twist with oats, flaxseed, and honey for lasting energy.
Both recipes use the same easy mix-and-roll method as peanut butter chocolate balls, so you can prep them in minutes. Keep a few batches of peanut butter chocolate balls and their protein-packed cousins in your fridge, and you’ll always have a homemade treat ready to grab and enjoy!
Emily's Sweet Note: These peanut butter chocolate balls are pure magic in every bite; trust me, you'll be making them on repeat! 🍫
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this Peanut Butter Chocolate Balls recipe:
Peanut Butter Chocolate Balls (No-Bake)
Equipment
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Electric mixer (optional)
- 1 Cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Baking sheets
- 1 Parchment paper
- 1 Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler
- 1 Fork or dipping tool
- 1 Airtight container
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Creamy peanut butter Use a quality brand for best texture
- 2.5 cups Powdered sugar Helps bind and sweeten the mixture
- 0.25 cup Unsalted butter, softened Adds richness
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Enhances flavor
- 1 pinch Salt Balances sweetness
- 16 oz Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips For coating
- 2 tablespoons Coconut oil or shortening Creates glossy finish
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup Rice Krispies cereal Optional for crunch
- 0.5 cup Crushed pretzels Optional for salty contrast
- 0.5 cup Chopped peanuts Optional for stronger peanut flavor
Instructions
- Mix peanut butter, butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar gradually and combine.
- Roll mixture into 1-inch balls and chill 30 minutes.
- Melt chocolate and coconut oil until smooth.
- Dip balls into chocolate and place on parchment.
- Sprinkle sea salt or toppings and refrigerate 20 minutes.
- Store in airtight container in fridge or freezer.
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