Creamy peanut butter balls, also known as peanut butter truffles, are a delightful treat! Here’s a simple recipe to make these delicious sweets:
Creamy Peanut Butter Balls Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 cups chocolate chips or melting chocolate
- 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate coating)
Instructions:
- Prepare the peanut butter mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and the mixture forms a dough-like consistency. If it’s too soft, add a bit more powdered sugar; if it’s too dry, add a little more peanut butter.
- Shape the peanut butter balls: Line a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper. Take small portions of the peanut butter mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet. You should get around 24-30 balls depending on the size.
- Chill the peanut butter balls: Place the baking sheet with the peanut butter balls in the refrigerator and let them chill for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. Chilling makes them easier to dip in chocolate.
- Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips or melting chocolate until smooth. If using chocolate chips, you can add a tablespoon of vegetable shortening to help create a smoother and more manageable coating.
- Coat the peanut butter balls: Using a fork or toothpicks, dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s completely coated. Gently tap the fork against the bowl’s edge to remove any excess chocolate.
- Place on parchment paper: Return the chocolate-coated peanut butter balls to the parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them sit until the chocolate coating hardens.
- Optional decoration: If desired, you can drizzle additional melted chocolate over the hardened coating or sprinkle some chopped nuts, sprinkles, or sea salt before the chocolate sets completely.
- Chill and serve: Once the chocolate coating has set, place the peanut butter balls back in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes to ensure the chocolate is fully hardened. Serve and enjoy these creamy peanut butter truffles!
These creamy peanut butter balls are a delightful treat for any occasion and are sure to satisfy any peanut butter and chocolate cravings!
