No Bake Peanut Butter Balls Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (or crunchy, if preferred)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or quick oats for a different texture)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or coconut oil, for a different flavor)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture

1. Mix the Peanut Butter and Butter:
   • In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter and softened butter. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to blend them together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Powdered Sugar and Graham Cracker Crumbs:
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar and graham cracker crumbs (or oats) to the peanut butter mixture. Stir until everything is fully incorporated, and the mixture has a dough-like consistency. If it feels too sticky, add a bit more graham cracker crumbs or oats.
3. Add Vanilla and Salt:
   • Stir in the vanilla extract and salt (if using), mixing well.

Step 2: Form the Peanut Butter Balls

1. Shape the Balls:
   • Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the peanut butter mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. If the mixture is too sticky, you can refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to handle.
2. Chill the Peanut Butter Balls:
   • Place the tray of peanut butter balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.

Step 3: Coat the Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate

1. Melt the Chocolate:
   • In a heatproof bowl, combine the chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate in a double boiler.
2. Dip the Balls in Chocolate:
   • Once the peanut butter balls have chilled, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, covering them completely or leaving a small portion uncovered for a nice contrast. Use a fork to lift the balls out of the chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.
3. Place on a Tray:
   • Return the chocolate-covered peanut butter balls to the parchment-lined tray and let the chocolate set.

Step 4: Let the Chocolate Harden

1. Chill Again:
   • Place the tray back in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes or until the chocolate coating is fully set and hardened.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Once the chocolate is firm, your No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls are ready to enjoy! Serve them chilled, and store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks.

Tips:

• For Extra Flavor: You can add a pinch of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey to the peanut butter mixture for extra flavor.
• Chocolate Variations: Try using dark chocolate or white chocolate for different variations. You can also sprinkle the balls with sea salt after dipping for a sweet-salty treat.
• Make Them Festive: For holiday treats, roll the peanut butter balls in colorful sprinkles or crushed nuts before the chocolate hardens.

Enjoy these No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls—they’re a perfect blend of creamy peanut butter, sweet chocolate, and a crunchy bite!