Step 1 — Prepare the Peanut Butter Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and peanut butter. Use a hand mixer to beat until creamy and smooth. Add the vanilla extract and blend again.
Slowly incorporate the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed at first to avoid a cloud of sugar. Once the mixture begins to thicken, switch to medium-high speed. The texture should be thick, soft, and able to hold its shape.
Add the crushed graham crackers or crisped rice cereal. This step not only provides structure—preventing the peanut butter balls from becoming too soft—but also gives the inside a delightful light crisp. You can adjust this ingredient depending on your preferred texture.
Taste and add a pinch of salt if you want to balance the sweetness.
Step 2 — Shape the Peanut Butter Balls
Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the peanut butter mixture (or smaller if you want bite-size truffles). Roll each portion between your palms to form smooth, compact balls. The warmth of your hands helps slightly soften the mixture, making it easier to shape.
Place each ball onto the lined baking sheet.
Once all the peanut butter balls are rolled, transfer the tray to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or the freezer for 15 minutes. This chilling step is essential: cold peanut butter balls are much easier to dip in chocolate and will maintain a round shape.
Step 3 — Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and vegetable oil.
Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round, until fully melted and silky smooth. Avoid overheating, as chocolate can seize if too hot.
If desired, use a double boiler for extra control.
Step 4 — Dip the Peanut Butter Balls
Remove the chilled peanut butter balls from the fridge.
Using a fork or skewer, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, rolling gently to coat all sides. Allow excess chocolate to drip off before returning each dipped ball to the parchment sheet.
If the chocolate thickens during dipping, microwave for another 10–15 seconds to loosen it again.
Step 5 — Add Decorations
For a polished, festive finish, drizzle melted peanut butter chips or colored candy melts over the top of the chocolate-coated balls. A piping bag or sandwich bag with the corner snipped off works perfectly.
You can also sprinkle crushed peanuts, sprinkles, or sea salt flakes on top before the chocolate sets.
Step 6 — Chill to Set
Place the entire tray in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes or until the chocolate coating firms up completely.
Once set, transfer to an airtight container.
Storage + Freezing
Refrigerator:
Peanut butter balls stay fresh for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.
Freezer:
Freeze for up to 3 months. Allow to thaw 5–10 minutes before enjoying.
Room Temperature:
Safe for a few hours during parties or holiday gatherings.
Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Balls
-
Use processed peanut butter (Jif, Skippy, etc.) — natural peanut butter tends to separate and creates a crumbly filling.
-
Chill before dipping — This prevents them from dropping off the fork or melting into the chocolate.
-
Add oil to the chocolate — ensures a glossy, smooth shell that does not crack.
-
Mix textures — graham crumbs give a fudge-like filling; crisped rice cereal gives more crunch.
-
Try dipping only halfway for a decorative half-coat look.
Flavor Variations
White Chocolate Drizzle
Use melted white chocolate for a snowy, festive touch.
Crunchy Peanut Butter Version
Substitute half the creamy peanut butter with crunchy.
Dark Chocolate Sea Salt
Dip in dark chocolate and sprinkle flaky salt on top.
Holiday Version
Use red and green candy melts for drizzles and holiday sprinkles.
Nut-Free Option
Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
Conclusion
Peanut butter balls are more than just a recipe—they’re a celebration of tradition, simplicity, and irresistible flavor. They’re the perfect make-ahead treat, the ultimate edible gift, and a dessert that requires almost no baking experience yet produces gourmet-looking results. Whether you drizzle, decorate, sprinkle, or enjoy them plain, these classic holiday gems bring joy to every gathering.
