Peanut butter balls are the ultimate no-bake dessert: creamy, rich, and coated in a smooth chocolate shell. Also known as peanut butter truffles, these bite-sized treats combine the nostalgic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate into a festive, freezer-friendly indulgence. Perfect for cookie trays, gifting, or late-night cravings, this classic holiday recipe only needs a few pantry staples. Plus, it’s easy enough for kids to help make—and hard for anyone to resist!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍫 No baking required – A simple chill and dip process
- 🥜 Classic flavor combo – Peanut butter + chocolate never fails
- 🎁 Perfect for holidays – Great for gifts, parties, or cookie exchanges
- 🧊 Freezer-friendly – Store ahead for easy treats anytime
- 👩🍳 Beginner-friendly – No candy thermometer or special tools
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter (not natural or oily)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- 3–4 cups powdered sugar
- 12 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate (bars or chips)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother coating)
- Sprinkles or sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat together peanut butter, butter, vanilla, and salt until creamy.
- Add sugar: Gradually mix in powdered sugar until the dough is thick and not sticky. You may not need the full 4 cups.
- Shape balls: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll into smooth balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill: Freeze the peanut butter balls for 30 minutes, or refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Melt chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate and coconut oil (if using) in 20-second intervals until smooth. Stir between each interval.
- Dip & set: Use a fork or dipping tool to coat each peanut butter ball in melted chocolate. Tap off excess and place back on parchment.
- Decorate: Add sprinkles, sea salt, or crushed peanuts before chocolate hardens.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate for 20 minutes until chocolate is firm. Store in an airtight container.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 30–36 truffles
- Estimated Cost: $6–$8
Nutrition Facts (Per Ball)
- Calories: 130
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 12g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 2g
Nutrition varies by chocolate and sugar used
Tips & Variations
- 🥥 Use coconut oil in the chocolate to create a thinner, shinier coating
- 🍬 Roll in crushed graham crackers instead of dipping for a quick alternative
- 🥄 Pipe or drizzle chocolate instead of fully coating
- 🥜 Try crunchy peanut butter for added texture
- 🍫 Use white chocolate or dark chocolate for variety
- 🧊 Freeze for up to 2 months in a sealed container
Peanut Butter Balls (Truffles)
Equipment
- – Mixing bowls
- – Hand mixer or stand mixer
- – Cookie scoop or spoon
- – Parchment paper
- – Fork or dipping tool
Ingredients
- – 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
- – ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- – 1 tsp vanilla extract
- – ¼ tsp salt
- – 3–4 cups powdered sugar
- – 12 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate
- – 1 tbsp coconut oil optional
- – Sprinkles or sea salt optional
Instructions
- Beat peanut butter, butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Mix in powdered sugar gradually until thick and rollable.
- Roll into 1-inch balls. Chill for 30 minutes (or refrigerate 1 hour).
- Melt chocolate with coconut oil.
- Dip each ball, tapping off excess chocolate.
- Place on parchment-lined sheet. Garnish if desired.
- Refrigerate until set. Store chilled or frozen.
Notes
– Add more sugar if dough is too sticky
– Store in fridge for 2 weeks or freeze for 2 months
– Garnish with crushed nuts, candy cane, or sea salt
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
No. Natural peanut butter tends to separate and makes the filling oily or crumbly. Stick to creamy, shelf-stable brands.
Why is my filling too sticky to roll?
Add more powdered sugar, ¼ cup at a time, until the dough is firm enough to shape.
How do I dip the balls cleanly?
Use a fork or candy dipping tool. Tap excess chocolate off before placing on parchment.
Can I make these ahead?
Yes! Store in the fridge for 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Do these need to stay refrigerated?
They can be left out at room temperature for several hours, but refrigerating keeps them firmer and fresher.
Conclusion
This peanut butter balls recipe is the definition of a holiday favorite: simple, satisfying, and irresistibly good. Whether you’re making them for a party, gifting to friends, or stashing some in the freezer for “emergencies,” these truffles are always a hit. Dip, chill, and enjoy the chocolate-peanut butter magic in every bite!