Soft, sweet, and creamy, these Peanut Butter Balls are perfect as bite-sized treats for the holidays or any day you need a little pick-me-up. These no bake treats are made with just a handful of ingredients that are shaped into small balls and coated with a layer of rich chocolate that adds a luscious finish and takes them over the top.
Peanut Butter truffles have a light and creamy texture that comes from creaming butter, Peanut Butter, and powdered sugar together. Add some graham crackers to this mixture, and you get a delightful crumbly texture that tastes like peanut butter cups. The truffles are then rolled into small balls and coated in melted chocolate, which not only adds another layer of sweetness but also creates a decadent shell that gives them a nice crunch with every bite. The best part? No need for an oven to make any part of this recipe — just some mixing, rolling, and melting to whip up these tasty treats.
Why You'll Love these Peanut Butter Balls
- Quick and easy. Prepped in just 30 minutes, these no-bake treats are the perfect solution for last-minute cravings. All you have to do is mix the ingredients together, form bite-sized balls, dip in melted chocolate, and chill in the fridge until ready to enjoy.
- A classic flavor combo. Peanut butter with chocolate is such a good combination that never gets old, and these truffles deliver every time. The peanut butter adds a nutty, salty flavor while the chocolate brings in a sweet and rich finish, making an irresistible mix that won’t make it far in the kitchen. They taste like Reese's peanut butter cups, but better!
- Great for any occasion. The least time-consuming and most convenient way to treat your guests, these peanut butter truffles are great for parties, holidays, or just because. And they're so easy to customize by adding different mix-ins such as chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, and sprinkles.
- Perfect for gifting. As indulgent as they look, these small treats are some of the most impressive homemade goodies you can make. Package these peanut butter balls in small, pretty boxes and tie with a ribbon for a unique and thoughtful gift.
Ingredient Notes
To make these delicious Peanut Butter Balls, you will need the following ingredients (full measurements in recipe card below):
- butter - the base that adds a rich, creamy texture and flavor. Use unsalted for better control.
- peanut butter - use creamy peanut butter for a better texture. Natural peanut butter tend to be too runny, which might not give the truffles enough structure.
- graham crackers - add an extra layer of texture that makes these truffles like peanut butter cups.
- confectioners’ sugar - gives the truffles added sweetness while keeping the mixture smooth.
- vanilla extract - for that nice vanilla flavor and aroma.
- chocolate - use pure baking chocolate bars or chips for dipping. You can choose either milk chocolate for a creamy taste or dark for a bittersweet flavor. In fact, any kind of chocolate works including semi-sweet chocolate or white chocolate.
- coconut oil - makes it easier to dip the peanut butter balls into the melted chocolate, leaving a shiny chocolate coating on them. You can also use other kinds of vegetable oil.
You will also need measuring cups and spoons, large mixing bowl, hand mixer or stand mixer, baking pan, and saucepan or microwave.
How to Make the Best Peanut Butter Balls
- Cream butter. In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the butter until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add peanut butter. Add the peanut butter and beat to incorporate for about 1 minute.
- Add remaining ingredients. Add in graham crackers, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract and beat on low until combined, about 1 minute. The dough will be crumbly.
- Shape into balls. Take 1 tablespoon of dough and shape it into a ball. If you are finding the dough too dry and crumbly to do this, then beat in 1-2 tablespoons of water on low speed until combined. It should now be easier to work with but should still be soft and crumbly.
- Chill. Transfer the balls to large half sheet baking pan lined with parchment paper. Allow them to set and harden in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
- Melt chocolate. Once set, you are ready to melt the chocolate. Melt the chocolate either on the stove or in the microwave:
- On the stove: Bring 2 inches of water to a low simmer in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Then turn the heat to low and place a large heatproof bowl of chocolate chips with vegetable oil on the mouth of the pot. Make sure that there is a gap of a few inches between the bottom of the bowl and the water (You can also place a bowl on a steamer attachment on top of your pot). Stir the chocolate constantly as it melts. Stir until the chocolate is completely smooth and melted. This should take a few minutes.
- In the microwave: The second way to melt chocolate (and an easier way) is in the microwave. Place the chocolate and vegetable oil into a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second intervals. Remove the bowl at each interval and stir well. Repeat until the chocolate has completely melted. Stir until completely smooth.
- Coat with chocolate. Use a fork to carefully dip each chilled egg into melted chocolate. Tap the edge of the bowl to remove any excess chocolate and place the coated eggs back onto the lined baking sheet. You can also use a spoon to help coat the eggs with chocolate.
- Set. Transfer the coated eggs back to the fridge to slightly set for 5 minutes. Then use any excess melted chocolate and drizzle over the balls in a diagonal motion to add texture. Place back into the fridge to set completely, about 30 minutes.
Recipe Variations
- Use crunchy peanut butter. If you like a bit of crunch in your treats, use crunchy peanut butter instead of the smooth version. You can also use a combination for a balanced texture.
- Add some mix-ins. Get creative and mix some crushed pretzels, chopped nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate chips into your dough.
- Roll in shredded coconut. Give these truffles a tropical twist by rolling them in shredded coconut after dipping in chocolate. So good!
How to Serve
Serve these delicious Peanut Butter Balls as a special treat after your next holiday party or any dinner party, along with other desserts such as:
- Chocolate Covered Oreos
- Gingerbread Cake
- Monster Cookies
- Classic New York Cheesecake
- Chocolate Whoopie Pies
- Oreo Brownies
For more recipe inspiration, see our 50 Easy Baking Recipes.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Use softened butter. Softened butter will create a smooth mixture of peanut butter and powdered sugar, making it easier to shape into balls. If you use melted butter, the truffles may not hold their structure as well.
- Add water. If your mixture is too dry to form into balls, add a little bit of water and beat on low speed until it becomes soft enough to work with.
- Use a fork. To avoid getting chocolate all over your hands, use a fork to dip the balls in melted chocolate, and then tap the fork on the side of the bowl to let any excess chocolate drip off.
Storing and Freezing Instructions
How to Store
Place the leftover peanut butter truffles in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
How to Freeze
Place leftover peanut butter balls on a lined baking sheet and keep in the freezer for about an hour until hard. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Allow the truffles to thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
More Peanut Butter Recipes
- Peanut Butter Cup Cookies
- Soft and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies
- Peanut Butter Blossoms
- Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies
- Chewy Peanut Butter Granola Bars
- Chocolate Chunk Peanut Butter Cookies
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