Easy Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls Recipe
These easy Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls are a delicious no-bake treat combining creamy peanut butter and sweet powdered sugar, coated in smooth chocolate. Perfect for holiday celebrations or anytime you crave a rich, homemade candy that requires minimal ingredients and preparation time.
- Author: Cara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 25 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Peanut Butter Mixture
- 1½ cups chunky or creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Coating
- 12 oz bag of chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons paraffin wax (for coating)
- Sprinkles (optional)
- White chocolate for drizzling (optional)
- Prepare the peanut butter mixture: In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated and form a dough-like consistency.
- Form the balls: Shape the mixture into approximately 25 equal-sized balls by rolling them between your hands. Place the balls on a plate or tray as you form them.
- Melt the chocolate coating: Using a double boiler setup, bring water to a rolling boil. Add the chocolate chips and paraffin wax to the top bowl and stir gently until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. (Note: If using candy melts, omit the paraffin wax and follow the package instructions.)
- Dip the peanut butter balls: Using a spoon or fork, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate mixture to fully coat it. Then, place the coated balls on a rimmed sheet pan lined with wax or parchment paper to set.
- Add toppings: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle holiday-themed sprinkles over the balls or drizzle with melted white chocolate for extra decoration if desired.
- Harden the coating: Place the chocolate-covered peanut butter balls in the freezer for about 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden completely before serving.
Notes
- Paraffin wax helps the chocolate coating harden with a smooth and shiny finish; if you prefer not to use wax, you can use candy melts instead but omit the wax.
- Store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer to keep them fresh.
- For a softer texture, allow the balls to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.
- If you want a different flavor, try using crunchy peanut butter or add a pinch of salt to the peanut butter mixture.
Keywords: chocolate peanut butter balls, no bake peanut butter balls, easy peanut butter balls, holiday treats, chocolate coated candies