Name: Reese’s Peanut Butter Balls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Peanut Butter: 1 ½ cups (creamy or crunchy); Powdered Sugar: 1 ½ cups; Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons (softened); Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon; Graham Cracker Crumbs: 2 cups; Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: 2 cups; Vegetable Oil: 1 tablespoon; ½ cup mini chocolate chips; Pinch of salt; White chocolate drizzle

Reese’s Peanut Butter Balls are the ultimate no-bake treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. This easy-to-make dessert combines creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and a rich chocolate coating, creating bite-sized delights that are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a family party, or a simple indulgent snack, these peanut butter balls always hit the spot. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this irresistible treat at home.

Ingredients

To make Reese’s Peanut Butter Balls, gather the following ingredients:

Peanut Butter: 1 ½ cups (creamy or chunky, depending on preference)
Powdered Sugar: 1 ½ cups (also known as confectioners’ sugar)
Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons (softened)
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
Graham Cracker Crumbs: 2 cups (or substitute with crushed digestive biscuits)
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: 2 cups (or milk chocolate chips, if preferred)
Vegetable Oil: 1 tablespoon (for thinning the chocolate coating)

Optional Add-ins:

½ cup mini chocolate chips (for added texture)
A pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)
A drizzle of white chocolate for decoration

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract.
Use a spatula or your hands to mix until the ingredients form a smooth, dough-like consistency.
If the mixture feels sticky, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until manageable.

Step 2: Add Graham Cracker Crumbs

Gradually incorporate the graham cracker crumbs into the peanut butter mixture.
Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly distributed, and the dough becomes firmer.
This step ensures a balanced texture and helps the balls hold their shape.

Step 3: Shape into Balls

Scoop out about one tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball.
Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Repeat until all the mixture is used, forming approximately 24–30 balls.

Step 4: Freeze the Balls

Place the tray of peanut butter balls in the freezer for 30–60 minutes.
This step ensures the balls are firm and easier to dip into melted chocolate.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until fully melted.
Stir in the vegetable oil to create a smooth, pourable consistency.
Alternatively, use a double boiler to melt the chocolate without overheating it.

Step 6: Dip the Balls in Chocolate

Remove the peanut butter balls from the freezer.
Using a fork or toothpick, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated.
Gently tap the fork against the bowl to remove excess chocolate, then place the ball back on the lined tray.

Step 7: Let the Chocolate Set

Once all the balls are coated, refrigerate the tray for 30 minutes to an hour until the chocolate is completely set.

Variations

White Chocolate Coating: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter twist.
Salted Peanut Butter Balls: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate for a salty-sweet flavor.
Crunchy Texture: Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture.
Drizzle Decoration: Once the chocolate sets, drizzle white or dark chocolate over the top for a professional look.
Nut-Free Option: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.

Cooking Notes

Storage: Store Reese’s Peanut Butter Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.
Chocolate Melting Tip: To avoid burning, stir frequently and melt chocolate slowly. Adding vegetable oil ensures a smooth coating.
Chilling Time: Freezing the balls before dipping is essential for maintaining their shape and ensuring the chocolate sets properly.

Serving Suggestions

Gift Boxes: Arrange the balls in decorative boxes or tins as homemade gifts.
Dessert Tables: Add these peanut butter balls to a dessert platter alongside cookies and brownies.
Snack Time: Perfect as a quick and satisfying snack during the day.
Holiday Treat: Serve them during holidays like Christmas, Easter, or Halloween for a festive touch.

Tips

Consistency: If the dough is too sticky, add more powdered sugar or graham cracker crumbs.
Use a Toothpick: For easier dipping, insert a toothpick into the ball before coating it with chocolate.
Make Ahead: Prepare in advance and store in the freezer for convenience.
Smooth Chocolate: For a glossy finish, ensure the chocolate is melted smoothly and evenly.
Room Temperature: Allow the peanut butter mixture to rest at room temperature for a few minutes if it’s too cold to mix.

Prep Time

Preparation: 15 minutes
Chilling: 30–60 minutes
Dipping: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Ball)

Calories: 150 kcal
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 30mg
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 9g

FAQs

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds a delightful texture to the peanut butter balls.

2. What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?
Crushed digestive biscuits, oats, or even Rice Krispies work as substitutes.

3. How long do Reese’s Peanut Butter Balls last?
They can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for three months.

4. Can I use dark chocolate?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate adds a rich and slightly bitter contrast to the sweet peanut butter filling.

5. Why is my chocolate coating clumpy?
If the chocolate isn’t smooth, add a tablespoon of vegetable oil to thin it out. Ensure you melt it slowly to prevent burning.

Conclusion

Reese’s Peanut Butter Balls are a classic no-bake dessert that’s both easy and delightful to make. With their perfect blend of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate, they’re a hit at parties, family gatherings, and even as gifts. The recipe’s versatility allows for countless variations, making it easy to customize these treats to your liking. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward, fun, and guaranteed to impress. Whip up a batch today and enjoy these decadent, bite-sized indulgences!