CHOCOLATE COVERED PEANUT BUTTER BALLS RECIPE

Today, I’m excited to share a delightfully simple and incredibly delicious treat with you – our Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Balls Recipe! These little bites are a dreamy combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate, reminiscent of mini Reese’s peanut butter cups. They’re so good, they practically melt in your mouth!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chocolate covered peanut butter balls are not just easy to make, but they taste fantastic too. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a sweet snack or a delightful addition to a holiday cookie platter. With their creamy peanut butter center and a luscious chocolate coating, they are bound to become a family favorite.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon
• Baking sheet
• Waxed paper
• Double boiler or saucepan with a heatproof bowl
• Fork
• Refrigerator

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 12 oz bag of chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons shortening

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with waxed paper and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, butter, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. By the third cup of powdered sugar, the mixture will become quite stiff. Use your hands to finish incorporating the sugar.
5. Roll the mixture into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Melt the chocolate chips and shortening together using a double boiler or a bowl over simmering water, stirring until smooth.
7. Dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate using a fork, then transfer back to the waxed paper.
8. Refrigerate the chocolate-coated balls for 15-30 minutes, or until the chocolate has set.

Tips for Success

For the best results, make sure your peanut butter and butter are at room temperature. This will help them blend together more easily. Additionally, adding shortening to the chocolate helps achieve a smoother coating that’s easier to work with.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a fun twist, try sprinkling a bit of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it hardens for a sweet and salty combination. You can also try using crunchy peanut butter for added texture.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While exact nutritional values will vary based on portion size, these treats are rich in protein thanks to the peanut butter, and provide a satisfying sweet fix with their chocolate coating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but be aware that the texture might be slightly different, as natural peanut butter tends to be oilier.

How should I store these peanut butter balls?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Can I freeze these treats?
Absolutely! They can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and, more importantly, eating these Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Balls! They’re a simple yet decadent treat that’s sure to impress. I’d love to hear how yours turn out, so please feel free to share your experiences and any fun variations you try!