No-bake peanut butter balls

Introduction: No-bake peanut butter balls are a simple and delicious treat that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without turning on the oven. These peanut butter balls are made with just a few ingredients—peanut butter, powdered sugar, butter, and chocolate—and they come together quickly, making them an ideal snack or dessert for busy days or when you want a quick indulgence. The creamy, peanut butter filling is perfectly complemented by a rich, chocolate coating, making every bite irresistible.

These peanut butter balls are also incredibly versatile! You can customize them by adding different mix-ins, like crushed pretzels, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt, for an added twist. Whether you make them for a party, a holiday gathering, or just a treat for yourself, these no-bake peanut butter balls are always a crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients:

• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky, your choice)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed rice cereal for added crunch)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate chips)
• 2 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable oil (to thin the chocolate for dipping)

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Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture

1. Mix peanut butter and butter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and softened butter. Using a hand mixer or a spatula, mix until smooth and creamy.
2. Add powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs: Gradually add the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs to the peanut butter mixture. Mix well until everything is fully combined and a dough-like consistency forms. If you’re adding vanilla extract, mix it in at this point.
3. Form into balls: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into bite-sized balls (about 1-inch in diameter). Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Continue rolling the mixture until it’s all used up.

Step 2: Chill the Peanut Butter Balls

1. Chill the balls: Once the peanut butter balls are formed, place the baking sheet in the fridge or freezer. Chill for at least 30 minutes, or until they are firm and set. This helps them hold their shape when you dip them in chocolate.

Step 3: Coat the Balls in Chocolate

1. Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (or vegetable oil). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted. You can also melt the chocolate using a double boiler if you prefer.
2. Dip the peanut butter balls: Once the peanut butter balls are chilled and firm, use a fork or toothpick to dip each ball into the melted chocolate. Coat each ball thoroughly and allow any excess chocolate to drip off.
3. Return to baking sheet: Place the chocolate-covered peanut butter balls back onto the prepared baking sheet. If you want, you can drizzle extra melted chocolate over the top for an extra decorative touch.

Step 4: Let the Chocolate Set

1. Set the chocolate: Allow the chocolate-covered peanut butter balls to set by either refrigerating them for another 20-30 minutes or leaving them at room temperature for a few hours. The chocolate will harden as it cools, giving the peanut butter balls a nice glossy finish.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve: Once the chocolate is set, your no-bake peanut butter balls are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

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Notes:

• Customization: You can add a variety of mix-ins to the peanut butter filling, such as mini chocolate chips, crushed pretzels, or dried fruit. For a saltier-sweet contrast, you can also sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate coating before it hardens.
• Chocolate alternatives: If you prefer white chocolate or milk chocolate, feel free to swap the semisweet chocolate chips with your preferred variety. You can also experiment with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Vegan version: For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and peanut butter, and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips. You can also use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of powdered sugar for a more natural sweetener.
• Freezing tips: These peanut butter balls freeze well and make for a great make-ahead snack. Just place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers, and they’ll last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Let them thaw for a few minutes at room temperature before eating.

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Total Time:

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Chill time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes (plus additional time for chilling)

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Conclusion: These No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls are an incredibly easy and delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With a creamy peanut butter center and a rich chocolate coating, these bite-sized snacks are irresistible and sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth. Plus, they’re so simple to make, you’ll be whipping up a batch in no time!