Delicious Peanut Butter Balls

These irresistible peanut butter balls have been my go-to holiday treat for years. The perfect combination of creamy peanut butter, crispy texture, and rich chocolate coating creates bite-sized morsels of pure delight that disappear faster than I can make them.

I first made these peanut butter balls for my daughter's classroom holiday party, and they were such a hit that they've become our family's official December tradition. Even my husband, who claims not to have a sweet tooth, can't resist sneaking them from the refrigerator.

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: choose a quality brand with minimal additives for the best flavor
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter: at room temperature for easy blending
• 2 cups powdered sugar: sifted to prevent lumps for the smoothest texture
• 1 1/2 cups crispy rice cereal: adds that delightful crunch that sets these apart
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: premium brands melt more smoothly
• 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening: helps create that perfect shiny chocolate coating

How To Make Peanut Butter Balls

Cream the base:

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter and softened butter until completely combined and fluffy. Make sure your butter is truly at room temperature to avoid any lumps. This creates the rich foundation for your peanut butter balls.

Add the sweetness:

Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, about half a cup at a time, beating thoroughly between additions. The mixture will become quite thick. This slow addition prevents sugar clouds and ensures even sweetness throughout.

Mix in the crunch:

Fold in the crispy rice cereal until evenly distributed throughout the peanut butter mixture. Use a folding motion rather than aggressive stirring to keep the cereal pieces intact for that perfect textural contrast.

Shape into balls:

Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion the mixture and roll between your palms to form 1inch balls. Place them on a parchment lined baking sheet with a bit of space between each one. If the mixture becomes sticky, refrigerate it for 15 minutes before continuing.

Prepare the chocolate coating:

In a microwave safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and vegetable shortening. Microwave in 30second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each, until completely melted and silky smooth. This patience prevents scorching and ensures a perfectly glossy coating.

Dip to perfection:

Using a fork or toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate. Gently tap the fork against the bowl to remove excess chocolate, creating a thin, even coating. The thin layer lets the peanut butter flavor shine while providing that satisfying chocolate shell.

Chill until set:

Return the chocolate coated balls to the parchmentlined sheet and refrigerate for about 30 minutes until the chocolate is completely firm. This patience is rewarded with a perfect finish that wont stick to fingers when served.

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The addition of rice cereal was actually a happy accident when I was running low on powdered sugar years ago. I tossed in cereal to bulk up the mixture, and my family declared it the best version ever. Sometimes kitchen mistakes lead to the tastiest discoveries!

Gifting Ideas

These peanut butter balls make excellent homemade gifts during the holiday season. Place them in decorative tins lined with parchment paper, separating layers with additional parchment to prevent sticking. For a festive touch, add a sprinkle of holiday-colored sprinkles or a drizzle of white chocolate while the coating is still wet. I always make a double batch in December specifically for neighbor gifts, and the requests start coming in as early as October!

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Make-Ahead Tips

Peanut butter balls actually improve with a day or two in the refrigerator as the flavors meld beautifully. You can prepare the balls up to three months ahead and freeze them uncoated in airtight containers. When ready to serve, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and proceed with the chocolate coating step. The uncoated balls can also be frozen for up to 3 months, making them perfect for last-minute entertaining or satisfying sudden sweet cravings.

Flavor Variations

While the classic recipe is beloved, these peanut butter balls welcome creative adaptations. Try using crunchy peanut butter for extra texture, or substitute almond or cashew butter for an interesting twist. Adding 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt enhances the flavor profile, while a tablespoon of honey creates subtle floral notes. My personal favorite variation includes a quarter cup of finely chopped toasted pecans folded in with the cereal for a sophisticated nutty dimension.

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Serving Suggestions

These peanut butter balls shine as part of a holiday cookie assortment but are equally welcome alongside after-dinner coffee or as an afternoon treat with milk. For a special dessert presentation, place a few on a plate with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce. They also make delightful toppers for cupcakes or ice cream sundaes when you want to elevate a simple dessert into something memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, natural peanut butter works, but make sure to mix it thoroughly as the oil separation can affect consistency.

→ How do I store peanut butter balls?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.

→ Can I skip the rice cereal?

Yes, but the crispy texture adds a nice crunch. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can omit the rice cereal or use finely crushed cookies as a substitute.

→ What can I use instead of vegetable shortening?

You can substitute coconut oil or butter, but note that the texture and shine of the chocolate coating may vary slightly.

→ Can I use milk or dark chocolate chips instead?

Absolutely! Milk or dark chocolate chips can be used to suit your personal taste. You can also use white chocolate for a different flavor twist.