Peanut Butter Balls (Truffles) Recipe

These Peanut Butter Balls, also known as Peanut Butter Truffles, are a classic treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Creamy peanut butter and confectioners’ sugar are combined to create a melt-in-your-mouth filling, then dipped in rich chocolate for an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. These easy-to-make treats are perfect for holidays, parties, or a simple indulgence.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these Peanut Butter Balls:

• Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature, adds richness and a tender texture to the filling.
• Creamy peanut butter: Use regular creamy peanut butter, not the natural style, for the best texture.
• Confectioners’ sugar: Adds sweetness and helps bind the filling.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut butter flavor.
• Semi-sweet chocolate bars: Coarsely chopped, use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and melting consistency.
• Vegetable oil: Helps thin out the chocolate for dipping.
• Optional: Sprinkles for decorating.

How to Make Peanut Butter Balls (Truffles)

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with a hand mixer or a stand mixer until creamy and smooth. Add the peanut butter and beat until combined. Add the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, and beat on low speed until well combined. The mixture will be slightly soft and crumbly.

Step 2: Shape and Chill

Roll the peanut butter mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Chill the shaped peanut butter balls in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 1 day.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

While the peanut butter balls are chilling, melt the chopped chocolate and vegetable oil together in a double boiler or the microwave. If using the microwave, melt in 20-second increments, stirring after each increment, until completely melted and smooth. Let the melted chocolate cool slightly before dipping.

Step 4: Dip in Chocolate

Remove the chilled peanut butter balls from the refrigerator. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, using a fork or a dipping tool to coat it completely. Tap off any excess chocolate and place the coated balls back on the baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle with sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the coated peanut butter balls for 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has completely set. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

How to Serve

• Party Treats: These Peanut Butter Balls are perfect for parties, holidays, or special occasions.
• Gift Idea: Package them in a decorative tin or box for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Sweet Snack: Enjoy them as a delicious snack anytime.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store coated peanut butter balls in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing

The coated peanut butter balls can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Creamy peanut butter is recommended for a smoother filling. Crunchy peanut butter will result in a crumbly filling that’s more difficult to shape.

Can I use chocolate chips for dipping?

Chocolate chips are not recommended for dipping because they contain stabilizers that prevent them from melting into the correct consistency for coating.

Do I need to temper the chocolate?

Tempering the chocolate is not necessary for this recipe.

Can I add other flavors to the filling?

Yes, you can add other flavors to the filling, such as chopped nuts, sprinkles, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

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