Christmas Peanut Butter Balls Recipe: A Festive and Delicious Treat

 

The holiday season is here, and that means it’s time for festive treats! One classic favorite is Christmas Peanut Butter Balls—a delicious, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for gifting, sharing, or enjoying with a cozy cup of hot chocolate. These creamy, nutty, chocolate-covered delights bring a festive touch to any holiday dessert table. Let’s dive into what makes these treats so special and how you can make them at home with just a few simple ingredients.

This recipe is easy, requires no baking, and is perfect for making with family. The combination of rich peanut butter and smooth chocolate creates an irresistible treat that’s both creamy and crunchy. You can even get creative with toppings to add a festive touch—think sprinkles, drizzled white chocolate, or crushed candy canes!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

This recipe only needs a few ingredients, making it both affordable and accessible. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup creamy peanut butter – You can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer extra texture.
2 cups powdered sugar – This helps bind the peanut butter and creates a smooth, sweet filling.
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened – For added creaminess and stability in the filling.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a warm, sweet flavor.
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – Melts perfectly for a smooth coating.
1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening – Optional, but helps make the chocolate coating smoother and shinier.
Festive toppings – Optional; use holiday sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or a drizzle of white chocolate for decoration.
INSTRUCTIONS:

Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Use a wooden spoon or electric mixer to blend the ingredients together until you have a smooth, thick dough. If the mixture is too sticky to handle, add a little more powdered sugar until it’s firm enough to roll.
Roll Into Balls
Take about a tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture and roll it between your palms to form a small ball, roughly 1 inch in diameter. Place the peanut butter balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat until all the dough is used. This recipe should yield about 20-25 balls, depending on their size.
Chill the Peanut Butter Balls
Once all the peanut butter balls are formed, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes. Chilling makes them firmer and easier to dip in melted chocolate without breaking apart.
Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil or shortening (if using). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can burn easily.
Dip the Peanut Butter Balls
Remove the peanut butter balls from the refrigerator. Using a fork or a toothpick, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let the excess chocolate drip back into the bowl, then place the coated ball back on the parchment paper.
Add Festive Toppings
While the chocolate coating is still wet, sprinkle holiday sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or drizzle with white chocolate for a decorative touch. Be creative and festive—this is the fun part!
Chill Again
Place the baking sheet with the chocolate-coated peanut butter balls back in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set.
Serve and Enjoy!
Once the chocolate has hardened, your Christmas Peanut Butter Balls are ready to enjoy! Arrange them on a festive plate, or package them up in holiday-themed boxes for gifting.
Storage Tips
Store your Christmas Peanut Butter Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks, though they rarely last that long! You can also freeze them for up to three months—just let them thaw in the fridge before serving.

Recipe Tips and Variations
Use White or Dark Chocolate: For variety, try coating some peanut butter balls in white or dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet.
Add a Pinch of Salt: If you love a salty-sweet combo, add a small pinch of salt to the peanut butter mixture.
Crunchy Peanut Butter Variation: For a little extra texture, try using crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
Make it Vegan: Substitute dairy-free butter, chocolate, and a bit of plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly version.