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This three-ingredient peanut butter ball recipe has become my go-to treat when I need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The simplicity of combining just peanut butter, butter, and powdered sugar creates an irresistible sweet that satisfies cravings in minutes.
I first made these peanut butter balls during a holiday baking marathon when I ran out of complex ingredients. They were such a hit that they've now become the most requested treat at family gatherings year-round.
Ingredients
- Creamy peanut butter: 1 cup provides the perfect smooth texture and rich flavor foundation. Opt for a quality brand without added oils for best results.
- Butter: ½ cup softened at room temperature ensures easy mixing and creamy consistency. Either salted or unsalted works beautifully.
- Powdered sugar: 2¼ cups acts as both sweetener and binding agent. Sifting it first prevents lumps.
- Pure vanilla extract: ½ teaspoon optional but adds wonderful depth of flavor that complements the peanut butter perfectly.
- Melted chocolate: optional for dipping or drizzling takes these treats to gourmet level. Dark, milk, or white all work wonderfully.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare your workspace:
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. The parchment also makes it simple to transfer the balls to the refrigerator.
- Mix the base ingredients:
- Use a handheld mixer to thoroughly cream together the peanut butter and softened butter until completely smooth and well incorporated. This creates the rich foundation of your peanut butter balls.
- Add dry ingredients:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract if using while continuing to beat the mixture. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently to ensure everything is evenly incorporated. The mixture will become thicker and slightly harder to mix.
- Form the balls:
- Take approximately one tablespoon of mixture and roll between your palms to create uniform balls. For perfectly sized treats, consider using a small cookie scoop. Place each formed ball on your prepared baking sheet.
- Chill to set:
- Refrigerate the formed balls for at least 20 minutes to firm them up. This chilling step is crucial for maintaining their shape, especially if you plan to dip them in chocolate later.
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The secret to making these truly exceptional is using high-quality peanut butter. I discovered this when I splurged on a fresh-ground variety from our local market during the holidays last year. The difference in flavor was remarkable, and my grandmother asked for the recipe for the first time in her 85 years.
Storage Tips
These peanut butter balls maintain their quality in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy from frozen, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.
Chocolate Coating Guide
If deciding to add the optional chocolate coating, melt chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bars in a microwave at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Once melted, dip each chilled peanut butter ball using two forks to manage the dipping process, then return to the parchment-lined sheet. For a decorative touch, drizzle with contrasting chocolate or sprinkle with chopped nuts before the chocolate sets.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile treats shine in multiple settings. Arrange them on a decorative platter for holiday gatherings, pack them in lunch boxes for a special treat, or create a dessert board with fresh fruit and other small sweets for entertaining. For an elevated dessert experience, serve alongside coffee or hot chocolate after dinner.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I store the PB balls?
Store the PB balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for extended storage.
- → Can I use crunchy peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer added texture in the PB balls. Ensure the butter is well mixed for consistency.
- → How can I coat the balls with chocolate?
Melt chocolate in a microwave or double boiler, then use a fork to dip each ball into the chocolate. Let them set on parchment paper until hardened.
- → Are these PB balls suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, these PB balls are naturally gluten-free, but ensure all ingredients, especially powdered sugar and vanilla, are certified gluten-free.
- → Can I substitute the butter with a dairy-free option?
Absolutely! Use a dairy-free butter substitute to make these PB balls suitable for a dairy-free diet.