Chocolate Peanut butter balls
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: About 36 balls
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon shortening (optional, for smoother melting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and softened butter. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix well until fully combined and the mixture forms a dough-like consistency.
- Form the Balls:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the peanut butter mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Once all the balls are formed, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and shortening (if using). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Alternatively, melt the chocolate and shortening in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method).
- Dip the Peanut Butter Balls:
- Remove the peanut butter balls from the refrigerator.
- Using a fork or a toothpick, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the ball back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Repeat with the remaining peanut butter balls.
- Set the Chocolate:
- Once all the peanut butter balls are coated in chocolate, return the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill until the chocolate is set, about 30 minutes.
- Serve:
- Store the chocolate peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Enjoy these delicious and easy-to-make Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls as a sweet treat or gift!
