Peanut Butter Balls

Every holiday season, our kitchen fills with the warm, nostalgic aroma of Peanut Butter Balls. This delightful tradition has been part of our family for 24 years, shared between generations. I first made them with my mother-in-law, and now my little girl joins in the fun. There’s something truly special about the simple joy of crafting these little treats together. They’re not just a recipe; they’re a memory in the making.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Peanut Butter Balls are a melt-in-your-mouth treat that perfectly balances creamy peanut butter with a rich chocolate coating. They’re incredibly easy to make, yet their taste is so impressive that they make the perfect homemade gift or party treat. Plus, the recipe yields a generous amount, so there’s plenty to share!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Double boiler
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Wax paper
• Toothpicks

Ingredients

• 1 1/3 cups peanut butter
• 1 1/3 cups graham crackers, crushed
• 2 sticks margarine or butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 box powdered sugar (1 pound box)
• 1/3 block paraffin (to help the chocolate set)
• 12 oz bag semi-sweet chocolate chips

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, melted margarine, and vanilla extract.
2. Add in the crushed graham crackers and powdered sugar. Mix by hand until the mixture is stiff.
3. Shape the mixture into bite-sized balls and place them on a tray lined with wax paper.
4. Using a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips and paraffin together until smooth.
5. Dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate using a toothpick, then place them back on the wax paper to dry.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the peanut butter mixture is firm enough to hold its shape. If it’s too soft, add a bit more powdered sugar.
• If you’re having trouble dipping the balls, try refrigerating them briefly to firm up before coating them in chocolate.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a fun twist, try adding a can of shredded coconut to the peanut butter mix. Some may remember this variation from classic cookbooks. You can also substitute Crisco for paraffin if desired.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While exact values can vary, each serving is rich in energy and provides a decent amount of protein from the peanut butter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use natural peanut butter? Yes, but ensure it’s well-stirred, as natural peanut butter can be oilier and may affect the texture.

What can I use instead of paraffin? You can use Crisco, though paraffin helps the chocolate coating to set smoothly.

How should I store these? Store in an airtight container in the fridge to keep the chocolate firm.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making these Peanut Butter Balls as much as we do. They are a cherished tradition in our family, and we’re thrilled to share them with you. Give them a try, and let us know how they turn out. We’d love to hear your stories and any creative twists you add to the recipe!