Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening or coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate coating)
Instructions:
- Prepare Peanut Butter Mixture:
- In a large bowl, mix together creamy peanut butter, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should be thick and dough-like.
- Shape into Balls:
- Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls. Place the balls on a parchment paper-lined tray or plate.
- Chill:
- Place the peanut butter balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm them up.
- Prepare Chocolate Coating:
- In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips. If using, add vegetable shortening or coconut oil to achieve a smoother consistency.
- Coat Peanut Butter Balls:
- Using a fork or toothpicks, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, coating it evenly. Allow excess chocolate to drip off.
- Place on Parchment Paper:
- Place the coated balls back on the parchment paper-lined tray.
- Chill Again:
- Place the tray in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes or until the chocolate coating is set.
- Serve:
- Once the chocolate is set, the Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls are ready to be enjoyed!
Notes:
- Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate coatings, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate coating for a sweet and salty combination.
- Store the chocolate peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
