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Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls: A Creamy, Chocolate-Covered Homemade Treat

There is something irresistible about the combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate. Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls bring those two classic flavors together in a simple no-bake dessert that is perfect for holidays, parties, cookie trays, or whenever you want a sweet treat without turning on the oven.

The center is soft, creamy, and slightly sweet, while the chocolate coating creates a smooth shell that gives every bite a satisfying snap. Even better, these little treats require only a handful of everyday ingredients and can be prepared ahead of time.

Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls

These treats are easy enough for beginners but delicious enough to become a favorite family recipe.

No oven required: Everything comes together without baking.
Simple ingredients: Most of what you need may already be in your pantry.
Make-ahead friendly: They keep well in the refrigerator or freezer.
Perfect for sharing: Their small size makes them ideal for dessert platters and gatherings.
Easy to customize: You can decorate the chocolate coating with sprinkles, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of melted peanut butter.

Ingredients

For the Peanut Butter Center

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups finely crushed graham cracker crumbs

For the Chocolate Coating

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chocolate melting wafers
1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening, optional

Optional Decorations

White chocolate for drizzling
Chopped peanuts
Holiday sprinkles
Mini chocolate chips
A small pinch of flaky sea salt

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture

Place the softened butter and creamy peanut butter in a large mixing bowl.

Using a hand mixer, beat them together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed so the butter and peanut butter are evenly combined.

Add the vanilla extract and mix again briefly.

Step 2: Add the Powdered Sugar

Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing on low speed.

Adding it slowly helps prevent a cloud of powdered sugar from covering your kitchen and makes it easier to incorporate the ingredients evenly.

Once the powdered sugar is mostly incorporated, increase the mixer speed and beat until you have a thick, smooth mixture.

Step 3: Add the Graham Cracker Crumbs

Add the finely crushed graham cracker crumbs and mix until everything is thoroughly combined.

The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape when pressed together. It should feel soft and slightly crumbly but not wet or runny.

If the mixture seems too soft, add a little more graham cracker crumbs. If it feels unusually dry, add a small spoonful of peanut butter and mix again.