Christmas Peanut Butter Balls Recipe: A Festive and Delicious Treat

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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!
7. 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.
8. 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.