Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Balls

Step-by-step instructions

In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Expect the mixture to thicken significantly by the third cup—this is when you should roll up your sleeves and mix it by hand!
Pinch off small amounts of the dough and roll them into balls about the size of a tablespoon. Place these on a baking sheet lined with wax paper.
To melt the chocolate, combine the chocolate chips and shortening in a double boiler or a bowl placed over simmering water. Stir until smooth and fully melted.
Carefully dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off before lifting it out with a fork. Return the coated ball to the wax paper.
Refrigerate the baking sheet for 15-30 minutes, or until the chocolate has completely hardened.

Best ways to enjoy it

These Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Balls are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience even further. Consider serving them on a decorative platter for eye-catching appeal at parties. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee for a cozy treat. For an elegant twist, you could drizzle some melted chocolate or white chocolate over the top for a beautiful finish. Feel free to experiment with toppings like crushed nuts, sprinkles, or sea salt for added flair!

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Balls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay good for about a week. If you’ve made a large batch and want to save some for later, you can freeze them! Just place them on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the refrigerator to maintain the best texture.

Helpful cooking tips

To ensure your Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Balls turn out perfect every time, remember these few things: First, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. Secondly, don’t be afraid to get your hands a little dirty; kneading the dough by hand can be more effective for mixing. Lastly, for a smooth chocolate coating, make sure you only use high-quality chocolate chips, and avoid overheating the chocolate.

Creative twists

Feel like mixing things up? Here are a few ideas for variations on this classic recipe: Try adding a pinch of sea salt to the chocolate coating for a salty-sweet kick, or incorporate different flavor extracts like almond or coconut to the peanut butter mix. You could even swap out the peanut butter for almond butter or sunbutter for a nut-free option. Consider rolling the balls in crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or cookie crumbs before the chocolate sets for a fun texture contrast.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but be aware that it may make the mixture slightly thinner. You might need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar accordingly to achieve the desired consistency.

How long does it take to make Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Balls?

The preparation time for this recipe is around 30-40 minutes, including the time needed for the chocolate to harden in the fridge.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! These treats can be prepared up to a week in advance. Just store them properly in the refrigerator or freezer, and they’ll still taste delicious when you’re ready to serve them.