Classic Peanut Butter Balls

🕒 Prep: 30 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 24
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Classic Peanut Butter Balls are a delightful treat that combines the rich, creamy taste of peanut butter with a luscious chocolate coating. Perfect for holidays, parties, or just because, these bite-sized goodies are both easy to make and simply irresistible.

Ingredients for Classic Peanut Butter Balls

Creamy peanut butter is the star of this recipe, providing that essential nutty flavor and smooth texture. Using unsalted butter helps control the saltiness, while adding richness and moisture to the mixture. Powdered sugar sweetens things up and ensures a smooth, binding consistency. A touch of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, and a pinch of salt balances the sweetness. The semisweet chocolate chips melt into a glossy coating, and a bit of shortening ensures a silky, smooth finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • If the mixture is too soft to roll, chill it for a few minutes until it's easier to handle.
  • For a smoother coating, ensure your chocolate and shortening are fully melted and stirred well.
  • Keep a damp cloth nearby to wipe your hands between rolling – it helps keep things tidy.

Serving Suggestions

These peanut butter balls are perfect for any occasion. Arrange them on a decorative platter for parties or package them in a cute tin for a homemade gift. For a fun twist, sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top before the chocolate sets to enhance the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chunky peanut butter?
Yes, but the texture will be a bit different. Chunky peanut butter adds a nice crunch.
What if I don't have shortening?
You can use coconut oil as a substitute, though the chocolate may not be as firm.
How long do these keep?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Classic Peanut Butter Balls Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and tossing in your creamy peanut butter and softened butter. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon to blend these until they're well combined. Next, add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix everything together until you have a smooth, homogeneous dough. It might take a little elbow grease, but the result will be worth it.

Now, using your hands, roll the mixture into small 1-inch balls. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once you've shaped them all, pop the tray into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial as it firms up the balls, making them easier to dip in chocolate later.

While the peanut butter balls are chilling, let's prepare the chocolate coating. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave this in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. The shortening helps the chocolate achieve a nice, even texture.

Once the chocolate is ready and the balls are firm, it's time to dip! Using a fork or a toothpick, carefully dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it's fully coated. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing it back onto the parchment-lined sheet.

After all the balls are coated, slide the baking sheet back into the refrigerator for another 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set. And there you have it – your classic peanut butter balls are ready to enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare with no baking required.
  • Perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
  • Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
  • Ideal for gifting or sharing at gatherings.

Ingredients

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon shortening

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.
2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
3. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.
4. Using a fork or toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow excess chocolate to drip off.
5. Place the coated balls back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until the chocolate is set, about 30 minutes.

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