4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls Recipe
Introduction
These 4-ingredient peanut butter balls are a simple, no-bake treat perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With a creamy peanut butter center coated in rich chocolate, they make a delightful snack or party treat.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons salted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening or coconut oil (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, stirring until fully incorporated. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for about 15 minutes to firm up.
- Step 2: Shape the chilled dough into 1-inch balls using your hands. Place the balls on a baking sheet, cover, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to help them hold their shape for dipping.
- Step 3: Melt the chocolate chips according to the package instructions. If desired, stir in the vegetable shortening or coconut oil for a smoother, shinier coating.
- Step 4: Using a fork, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off. Transfer the coated balls onto wax paper. Cover and refrigerate until the chocolate is set and ready to serve.
Tips & Variations
- For a nuttier texture, try using crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate depending on your preference.
- Adding a pinch of sea salt on top before the chocolate sets enhances the flavor.
- If you prefer a dairy-free version, use vegan butter and coconut oil for dipping.
Storage
Store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To enjoy, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. They can also be frozen for longer storage; thaw in the refrigerator before eating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these peanut butter balls ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made a few days in advance and kept refrigerated, or frozen for up to a month. Just thaw them in the fridge before serving.
What if I don’t have vegetable shortening or coconut oil for the chocolate coating?
It’s optional to add shortening or coconut oil. The chocolate will still set well without it, but adding a small amount helps create a smoother and shinier finish.
Print4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls Recipe
These 4-ingredient Peanut Butter Balls are a quick and easy no-bake treat combining creamy peanut butter and chocolate for a deliciously sweet and satisfying snack. Perfect for parties or a simple homemade dessert, they require minimal prep and chill time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Mixture
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 Tbsp salted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Chocolate Coating
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 Tbsp vegetable shortening or coconut oil (optional, for smoother melting)
Instructions
- Mix the peanut butter and butter: In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and softened salted butter until smooth and well integrated.
- Add powdered sugar: Gradually stir in the powdered sugar until the mixture is fully combined into a dough-like consistency.
- Chill the dough: Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to firm up the mixture.
- Shape the balls: Using your hands, form the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with wax paper or parchment paper, cover, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to help them hold their shape.
- Melt the chocolate: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips according to package instructions; optionally stir in vegetable shortening or coconut oil to create a smoother, glossier coating.
- Dip the peanut butter balls: Using a fork, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, allowing the excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back onto the wax paper.
- Chill to set: Cover and refrigerate the chocolate-coated balls until the chocolate hardens and they are ready to serve.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smoother texture.
- Softened salted butter helps enhance flavor and consistency.
- Vegetable shortening or coconut oil in the chocolate melts helps achieve a shinier coating.
- Keep the peanut butter balls chilled to hold their shape during dipping.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Keywords: peanut butter balls, no bake peanut butter recipe, chocolate peanut butter treats, easy peanut butter desserts, party snacks
