Few desserts capture the nostalgia of homemade baking quite like old fashioned peanut butter balls. These bite-sized confections blend the smooth, salty richness of peanut butter with the satisfying sweetness of chocolate, creating a treat beloved across generations. Whether you grew up snacking on these at holiday gatherings or are searching for an easy, no-bake dessert, this recipe is for you.
Below, you’ll find every detail you need to craft perfect peanut butter balls at home, along with helpful tips and creative variations to elevate your batch.
Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Balls
Peanut butter balls are indulgent, portable, and unfussy—qualities that make them an enduring favorite. Their classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate is tough to beat, offering a sweet-and-salty punch with each bite. You don’t need any special equipment or advanced skills. If you have a mixing bowl and a microwave, you’re already halfway there.
Peanut butter balls also shine in their versatility. They can be dressed up for the holidays with colorful sprinkles, or kept simple for everyday snacking. Since they store well, they work for parties, after-school treats, or edible gifts.
Ingredients for Traditional Peanut Butter Balls
The ingredient list is refreshingly short, with pantry staples you likely have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Role in Recipe |
|---|---|
| Creamy peanut butter | Forms the rich, smooth base |
| Salted butter (softened) | Adds creaminess and supports texture |
| Powdered sugar | Sweetens and stabilizes the dough |
| Crushed graham crackers | Provides structure and slight crunch |
| Semisweet chocolate chips | Melts into a luscious coating for each ball |
| Shortening or coconut oil | Helps chocolate coat smoothly and adds shine |
Note: Chunky peanut butter works if you prefer extra crunch. Avoid natural peanut butters that separate; they yield dough that’s too soft.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mixing the Filling
-
Combine Butter and Peanut Butter:
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and peanut butter together until smooth. Use a hand mixer for efficient blending, or a sturdy spoon if mixing by hand. -
Add Powdered Sugar:
Gradually mix in powdered sugar. The mixture should become thick and dough-like. -
Incorporate Graham Cracker Crumbs:
Stir in the crushed graham crackers. Your dough should be firm enough to roll into balls that hold their shape. If it’s too soft, add more crumbs a tablespoon at a time.
Shaping the Balls
-
Roll the Dough:
Scoop small portions (about a tablespoon each) and roll between your palms into rounds. The diameter should be about 1 inch. -
Chill Before Dipping:
Place the balls on a lined baking sheet. Refrigerate or freeze for 20–30 minutes. Chilling ensures they’re firm enough to withstand dipping.
Preparing the Chocolate Coating
Melting Methods
You can melt chocolate with either the microwave or a double boiler.
-
Microwave Method:
Put chocolate chips and shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring often until smooth. -
Double Boiler Method:
Set a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Add chocolate and shortening, stirring until melted and glossy.
Dipping the Balls
-
Dip Each Ball:
Use a fork or dipping tool to submerge each peanut butter ball in the melted chocolate. Tap fork gently on the edge of the bowl to remove excess. -
Set and Cool:
Return dipped balls to a parchment-lined tray. If using toppings (see below), add them before the chocolate sets. -
Harden:
Chill until the chocolate shell hardens, usually about 15–20 minutes in the refrigerator.
Troubleshooting and Technique Tips
-
Dough Too Soft?
Add extra crushed graham crackers, a spoonful at a time, until workable. -
Chocolate Setting Fast?
Work in batches and reheat chocolate briefly if it thickens. -
Mess-Free Dipping:
Chill dough thoroughly. Use a fork or skewer to lower balls into chocolate—this avoids sticky fingers and ensures an even coat. -
Perfectly Glossy Finish:
Stir in a bit of shortening or coconut oil when melting chocolate for a silky, professional look. -
Natural Peanut Butter Issues:
Natural peanut butters lack stabilizers, so the dough becomes oily and loose. Stick with mainstream brands for best results.
Creative Variations
Peanut butter balls aren’t one-note. Try mixing things up:
- Mix-Ins:
Fold in mini chocolate chips, Rice Krispies, or chopped pretzels for texture. - Coating Choices:
Dip in white or milk chocolate instead of semisweet. Swirl two types for a marbled look. - Toppings:
Sprinkle with sea salt, chopped nuts, toasted coconut, colored sugar, or festive sprinkles. - Buckeye Candy:
For classic Ohio buckeyes, leave a small circle of peanut butter showing on top by not dipping the ball fully.
Holiday Shapes:
Shape dough into eggs for Easter, hearts for Valentine’s Day, or trees for Christmas.
Serving and Storing Peanut Butter Balls
Storage
- Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Layer with parchment to prevent sticking. - Freezer:
Place balls in a single layer on a tray. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Keeps up to three months. Thaw at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Arrange on a platter with other bite-sized cookies.
- Pack in gift boxes for the holidays.
- Serve with coffee or milk for an easy dessert tray.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these nut-free?
For a peanut-free version, substitute sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter. Texture may be slightly softer; add extra graham cracker crumbs if needed.
Why use graham crackers?
Crushed graham crackers stabilize the dough, balance the peanut butter’s richness, and add a subtle flavor that complements both peanut butter and chocolate.
Can I make them vegan?
Yes. Use plant-based butter, dairy-free chocolate chips, and ensure your graham crackers are vegan-friendly.
Can kids help with this recipe?
Absolutely. Children can help roll the dough and add toppings. Since no baking is required, it’s an ideal family project.
Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Balls Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1¼ cups finely crushed graham crackers
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons shortening (or coconut oil)
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, blend peanut butter and butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar; mix until combined.
- Stir in graham cracker crumbs to form a stiff dough.
- Shape mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Arrange balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet; chill for 20–30 minutes.
- Melt chocolate chips and shortening together until smooth.
- Dip chilled balls into chocolate, letting excess drip off.
- Top with sprinkles, nuts, or salt, if using.
- Refrigerate until set. Store, covered, in fridge up to two weeks.
Old fashioned peanut butter balls offer comfort and delight in every bite. Their simplicity, adaptability, and crowd-pleasing flavor have kept them a staple in kitchens year after year. Whether you’re preparing these for a festive gathering or sneaking one as an afternoon treat, these classic candies are sure to deliver.
Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Balls
The company was founded in 2010. It operates in both Europe and Asia. Its headquarters are in Berlin, Germany. The organization employs more than 2,000 people. Revenue exceeded $500 million in 2023.
Ingredients
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups peanut butter
- 1 1/3 cups crushed graham crackers
- 1 cup butter
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon shortening
Instructions
- Beat together the peanut butter, butter, powdered sugar, and crushed graham crackers until combined. Shape into 1-inch balls. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Melt the chocolate chips and shortening with a double boiler on the stove or the microwave.
- Using a fork or a toothpick, dip the balls, one by one, into the melted chocolate until completely coated. Place the balls on sheets of parchment or waxed paper and refrigerate for 10 minutes to dry.