Introduction
When I first made Reese’s Peanut Butter Balls, I didn’t expect them to disappear so quickly! My family fell in love with these bite-sized treats, with their creamy peanut butter filling, crunchy Reese’s Pieces, and luscious chocolate coating. Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a sweet indulgence, they’ve become a household favorite that I find myself making over and over again.
Ingredients
- For the Filling:
- 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups crushed Reese’s Pieces
- For the Coating:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or shortening
Instructions
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the dough becomes firm and pliable.
- Incorporate Reese’s Pieces:
- Gently fold in the crushed Reese’s Pieces, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Shape the Balls:
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze the balls for 20-30 minutes, or until firm.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and glossy.
- Dip the Peanut Butter Balls:
- Using a toothpick or fork, dip each frozen ball into the melted chocolate, coating it fully. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing it back onto the parchment paper.
- Decorate (Optional):
- While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle a few crushed Reese’s Pieces on top for added crunch and color.
- Set the Chocolate:
- Chill the coated balls in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate hardens completely.
- Store and Enjoy:
- Transfer the Reese’s Peanut Butter Balls to an airtight container and refrigerate. They stay fresh for up to two weeks.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: 36 pieces
- Calories per serving: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
How to Serve
Reese’s Peanut Butter Balls are versatile and can be served in various ways:
- Arrange them on a decorative platter for parties and gatherings.
- Pack them in festive boxes for gift-giving during holidays.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing summer treat.
- Pair them with coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy dessert option.
- Use them as edible toppers for ice cream or cupcakes.
Additional Tips
- For a smoother dipping process, ensure the peanut butter balls are well-chilled before coating in chocolate.
- Use a fork or skewer for dipping to avoid fingerprints on the chocolate coating.
- If the dough becomes too sticky, chill it for 10-15 minutes to make rolling easier.
- To achieve a shiny chocolate coating, temper the chocolate instead of just melting it.
- Store in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Crunchy Peanut Butter: Substitute creamy peanut butter with crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- Dark Chocolate Coating: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: After coating the balls in chocolate, drizzle melted white chocolate for a decorative finish.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter.
- Extra Sweet: Add mini marshmallows or toffee bits to the filling for an extra indulgent treat.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these peanut butter balls at holiday parties, birthdays, or potlucks.
- Include them in dessert platters with other homemade confections like fudge or truffles.
- Use them as a thoughtful addition to holiday gift baskets.
- Pair them with wine or dessert cocktails for a sophisticated adult treat.
- Pack them in kids’ lunchboxes for a sweet surprise.
Freezing and Storage
- Refrigeration: Store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Thawing: To enjoy frozen peanut butter balls, thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
FAQ Section
- Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but ensure it’s well-mixed to avoid oily or runny dough. - What’s the best way to crush Reese’s Pieces?
Place them in a sealed plastic bag and crush them gently with a rolling pin. - Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate provides a sweeter coating. - Why is my dough too sticky to roll?
Chill the dough for 10-15 minutes to make it easier to handle. - Can I make these without coconut oil or shortening?
Yes, but the chocolate might not be as smooth or shiny. Butter can be a substitute. - How long can these be left at room temperature?
These treats are best served chilled, but they can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours. - What if I don’t have a microwave for melting chocolate?
Use a double boiler to melt the chocolate gently on the stovetop. - Can I add other mix-ins to the filling?
Yes, chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or shredded coconut work well. - How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when it sets?
Ensure the balls are not too cold when dipping, as extreme temperature differences can cause cracking. - Can I make these ahead of time?
Definitely! These treats can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer.
Conclusion
Reese’s Peanut Butter Balls are a simple yet decadent dessert that satisfies every sweet tooth. With their creamy filling, crunchy Reese’s Pieces, and velvety chocolate coating, these treats are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, holiday celebration, or just to satisfy a late-night craving, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Give them a try, and watch them become a staple in your dessert repertoire!