Reese’s Peanut Butter Balls
If you’re anything like me, the combo of peanut butter and chocolate holds a special place in your heart (and your dessert cravings). These Reese’s Peanut Butter Balls are the no-bake treat of your dreams—creamy, chocolatey, and packed with nostalgic goodness. Whether you’re whipping them up for the holidays, gifting them to friends, or sneaking a late-night bite straight from the fridge (guilty!), this recipe never disappoints.
Why You’ll Love Reese’s Peanut Butter Balls
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for the holidays, parties, or just a cozy night in when that sweet tooth hits.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples you probably already have on hand.
Quick and Easy: No oven required! Just mix, roll, dip, and chill. Boom—dessert done.
Customizable: You can add crushed pretzels, rice cereal, or even mini marshmallows for fun texture twists.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Reese’s Peanut Butter Balls
Here’s the magic of this treat—it takes just a few ingredients, but delivers major wow-factor. Let’s break it down:
Creamy Peanut Butter: The heart and soul of this recipe. Go for a classic, creamy variety for that dreamy texture.
Butter: Adds richness and helps everything bind together.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens things up and gives the mixture that perfect rollable consistency.
Vanilla Extract: Just a splash brings out all the warm, nutty flavor.
Chocolate Chips: Melted and ready to coat—this is where the “Reese’s” vibe really kicks in.
Coconut Oil or Shortening: Helps thin out the melted chocolate for a smooth, glossy finish.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Prep Your Mixing Area: Get your mixing bowls, spatulas, and a lined baking sheet ready. It makes the process smoother and way more fun when everything’s within reach.
Combine Peanut Butter Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined. You’re looking for a thick, scoopable consistency here.
Roll Into Balls: Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form the mixture into bite-sized balls. Roll them between your hands to smooth them out, then place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Chill the Balls: Pop the tray in the freezer for about 20–30 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes dipping a breeze.
Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with a bit of coconut oil or shortening. Stir until silky and smooth.
Dip and Coat: Using a fork or dipping tool, gently lower each ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely. Let any excess chocolate drip off before placing them back on the baking sheet.
Set the Chocolate: Return the tray to the fridge or freezer until the chocolate is fully set.
Serve and Enjoy: Once they’re firm and glossy, it’s go time! Serve chilled or at room temp for the ultimate indulgence.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 24 balls
Calories per serving: 110
(Note: Nutrition values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Balls
These little bites of joy are perfect as a party tray centerpiece, sweet gift boxes, or tucked into your holiday cookie spread. Want to get fancy? Drizzle with white chocolate, top with crushed peanuts, or sprinkle with sea salt for a gourmet touch.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- For easier rolling, lightly coat your hands with powdered sugar or a bit of butter.
- Don’t skip the chilling step—it really helps the peanut butter balls hold their shape.
- Want a crunchier texture? Stir in crushed graham crackers or crispy rice cereal.
- If you prefer milk chocolate or dark chocolate, feel free to swap out the coating to suit your taste.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
It’s not recommended—natural peanut butter tends to be too oily and makes the mixture too soft.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! They store beautifully in the fridge for up to two weeks or in the freezer for three months.
3. What’s the best way to melt the chocolate?
Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, or use a double boiler for more control.
4. How do I keep the chocolate from getting too thick?
Add a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening to thin it out for smooth dipping.
5. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.
6. Do I have to freeze the balls before dipping?
It’s highly recommended—it helps them hold their shape and makes dipping much easier.
7. Can I use almond butter or another nut butter?
Sure! Just make sure it’s not too runny. Adjust powdered sugar if needed.
8. How should I store them?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. Layer with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
9. Can kids help make these?
Totally! It’s a great no-bake recipe for little hands to help with rolling and dipping.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, and trust me—you’ll want to. These disappear fast!
Conclusion
Reese’s Peanut Butter Balls are the kind of sweet treat that makes you feel like a kid again—messy fingers, big smiles, and that perfect peanut butter-chocolate combo that never goes out of style. Keep a batch on hand for those moments when only a little bite of joy will do. Go ahead, make these—you won’t regret it.
PrintReese’s Peanut Butter Balls
A decadent no-bake treat that combines creamy peanut butter with rich chocolate, inspired by the famous candy. Perfect as a quick dessert or party treat.
- Prep Time: 15minutes
- Cook Time: 0minutes
- Total Time: 45minutes
- Yield: 20balls
- Category: Dessert/Candy
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
– 1cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2cup unsalted butter
– 2cups powdered sugar
– 1tsp vanilla extract
– 12oz milk chocolate chips
– 2tbsp heavy cream
Instructions
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine peanut butter and unsalted butter. Microwave for 20-30 seconds until softened.
2. Stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1inch in diameter.
4. Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 30minutes.
5. Meanwhile, melt the milk chocolate chips with heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 15seconds until smooth.
6. Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate until fully coated. Return them to the tray.
7. Refrigerate the coated balls for an additional 15minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
Notes
– For an extra touch, sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on the chocolate coating.
– Store in the refrigerator for best texture.
– Adjust the consistency with more powdered sugar if the mixture is too soft.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1ball
- Calories: 150kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
