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How to Make Peanut Butter Balls
Step 1: Mix the Peanut Butter Filling
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. If you’re adding rice krispies or crushed graham crackers, mix them in at this point for a little crunch.
Using a spatula or your hands, mix everything together until fully combined and smooth. The mixture should be thick enough to form into balls. If it feels too sticky, you can add a bit more powdered sugar until you get the right consistency.
Step 2: Shape the Balls
Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands. Place the rolled balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray. Continue until you’ve rolled all of the mixture into balls.
Step 3: Chill the Peanut Butter Balls
Once all the balls are shaped, place the tray in the fridge for about 30 minutes to an hour, or until the peanut butter balls are firm enough to dip in chocolate. This step helps the peanut butter balls keep their shape while dipping and ensures they don’t melt when coated in chocolate.
Step 4: Coat in Chocolate
While the peanut butter balls are chilling, melt the chocolate chips and vegetable oil (or coconut oil) together. You can do this in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
Once the peanut butter balls are chilled and firm, dip each one into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. You can use a fork to help dip and lift the balls, allowing any excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back on the parchment paper.
Step 5: Chill Again
After dipping, return the peanut butter balls to the fridge to set the chocolate coating for about 20 minutes, or until firm.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chocolate has hardened, your peanut butter balls are ready to enjoy! You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate them for longer shelf life.
Variations and Tips
- Add Toppings: After dipping the balls in chocolate, you can sprinkle them with crushed nuts (such as peanuts or almonds) or drizzle them with extra melted chocolate for a decorative touch.
- Make It Vegan: Use dairy-free peanut butter, vegan butter, and dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly version of these peanut butter balls.
- Flavor Add-Ins: Feel free to experiment with other flavors such as a dash of cinnamon, a pinch of sea salt, or even a bit of coconut for an extra twist.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Peanut butter balls are versatile and perfect for almost any occasion. They’re ideal for:
- Holiday Treats: They make fantastic homemade gifts during the holidays, especially when packaged in cute tins or boxes.
- Party Snacks: Whether it’s a family gathering or a potluck, peanut butter balls are sure to disappear quickly.
- Sweet Cravings: Whenever you need a sweet, satisfying snack, these little bites are easy to make and perfect for curbing your sugar cravings.
Final Thoughts
Peanut butter balls are a delightful, no-bake treat that’s sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the combination of peanut butter and chocolate. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create these little indulgences that taste as good as they look. Whether for a special occasion or as an everyday snack, these peanut butter balls are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth every time. Enjoy!
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