No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls – A Classic, Easy, Crowd-Favorite Treat!
Looking for an easy no-bake dessert that’s both irresistible and quick to prepare? These No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls check all the boxes! With a rich peanut butter center and a silky chocolate coating, these bite-sized treats are perfect for the holidays, potlucks, or an indulgent snack any time of year.
Best of all, there’s no oven required, and the ingredients are simple pantry staples. Whether you’re making them for a festive platter or just to keep in the fridge for late-night cravings, these little chocolate-dipped bites are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil or shortening (optional – for smooth, glossy chocolate)
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Peanut Butter Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until a thick, dough-like consistency forms. The mixture should hold its shape when rolled but still be soft and pliable.
Step 2: Shape the Balls
Scoop out heaping tablespoons of the peanut butter dough and roll them into balls using your hands. Place the formed balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. You should get around 24–28 balls, depending on size.
Step 3: Chill to Set
Refrigerate the peanut butter balls for at least 30 minutes, or until firm. This helps them keep their shape when dipped in melted chocolate.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, add the chocolate chips and coconut oil or shortening (if using). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth.
Tip: The coconut oil gives the chocolate a glossy finish and helps it coat the balls more evenly.
Step 5: Dip in Chocolate
Using a fork, dipping tool, or toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing the coated ball back on the lined baking sheet.
Step 6: Chill Again
Refrigerate the coated peanut butter balls for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully hardened.
Storage:
- Store your no-bake peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They’ll stay fresh for up to 1 week (or freeze for up to 2 months for longer storage).
- Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
Optional Variations & Decorating Ideas:
- Add crunch: Mix in ½ cup of crushed pretzels, rice Krispies, or graham crackers to the peanut butter mixture for added texture.
- Go festive: Drizzle with white chocolate or sprinkle with crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or sea salt for a holiday touch.
- Use different nut butters: Almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be used for allergy-friendly variations.
Time Breakdown:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 24 balls
- Calories: ~170 kcal per ball
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
No baking required
Perfect make-ahead dessert
Great for holidays, gift boxes, or freezer treats
Customizable with fun toppings
Final Thoughts:
Whether you call them buckeyes, chocolate peanut butter truffles, or simply no-bake peanut butter balls, one thing’s for sure: they disappear fast. They’re rich, smooth, and incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients. Add them to your holiday tray or keep a batch in the fridge for whenever your sweet tooth strikes!