These chocolate peanut butter balls are a delightful mix of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate, perfect for fall or Christmas desserts. Whether you’re starting a new holiday tradition or just craving a sweet treat, this easy recipe is fun for all ages. Bonus: The kids can help, making it a family affair!
Ingredients
- Peanut Butter – Use creamy or crunchy peanut butter, whichever you prefer.
- Softened Butter – Salted butter gives it the best flavor.
- Powdered Sugar – Adds the perfect sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs – Adds crunch and body (cookie crumbs work too!).
- Milk – To make the mixture smooth.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor.
- Salt – Just a pinch for balance.
- Melting Chocolate – Dark, milk, or white chocolate all work beautifully. Ghirardelli is a favorite.
How to Make Peanut Butter Balls
- Mix the Ingredients: In a stand mixer (or bowl), beat the peanut butter and softened butter on medium speed until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs, milk, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until the batter is smooth and combined.
- Shape the Balls: Roll the mixture into small balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for at least 10 minutes so they firm up for dipping.
- Melt the Chocolate: Microwave the melting chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted. You can also use a double boiler if you prefer.
- Dip the Balls: Dip each peanut butter ball halfway into the melted chocolate. Shake off any excess chocolate and place it on the parchment paper to harden. Once set, dip the other half of the ball and let it cool completely.
- Decorate: After dipping, drizzle some extra chocolate on top for a fun design. Add festive sprinkles if desired!
Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter Balls
- Alternative Chocolates: If you don’t have melting chocolate, you can melt chocolate chips or candy bars for coating.
- Graham Cracker Alternatives: Swap graham crackers for cookie crumbs. Peanut butter cookies will enhance the flavor, or use chocolate cookies for a different twist.
- No Microwave? Use a double boiler or an electric melting pot for your chocolate.
- Nut Butter Options: Don’t love peanut butter? Substitute with almond, cashew, or even cookie butter.
- Easy Dipping: For quicker dipping, use a spiral dipping tool or a fork to coat the balls in one go.
Makes: 20-25 Peanut Butter Balls
These chocolate peanut butter balls are a fun, indulgent dessert perfect for any occasion. Whether for a holiday party, a gift, or a family movie night, this recipe is sure to impress.
