Description
These 4-ingredient peanut butter balls are a simple, no-bake treat combining creamy peanut butter, butter, powdered sugar, and rich semi-sweet chocolate. Perfectly sweet, bite-sized, and easy to make, these peanut butter balls are a delightful dessert or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Peanut Butter Mixture
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 Tbsp salted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Chocolate Coating
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 Tbsp vegetable shortening or coconut oil (optional, for smoother melting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and softened salted butter until smooth. Gradually stir in the powdered sugar until the mixture is fully combined and forms a firm dough. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 15 minutes to let it firm up for easier shaping.
- Shape the Balls: Using your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper. Cover and refrigerate the balls for at least 20 minutes to help them hold their shape during dipping.
- Melt the Chocolate: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler according to the package instructions. Optional: Add vegetable shortening or coconut oil to the chocolate for a smoother, shinier coating.
- Dip the Peanut Butter Balls: Using a fork, dip each peanut butter ball individually into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Place the chocolate-coated balls back onto the wax paper on the baking sheet.
- Chill to Set: Cover the baking sheet and refrigerate the coated peanut butter balls until the chocolate is firm and set, typically about 20-30 minutes. Once set, they are ready to serve or store for later enjoyment.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the salted butter with coconut oil and ensure the chocolate chips are dairy-free.
- If the mixture is too sticky to handle, chilling it longer will make it easier to form balls.
- The vegetable shortening or coconut oil in the chocolate is optional but helps create a glossy and smooth chocolate coating.
- Store peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts or sea salt on the chocolate coating before it sets.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball (approx. 20g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
