Name: No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 cups powdered sugar; 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (optional, for coating); In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.; Gradually add powdered sugar, stirring well after each addition, until a thick dough forms.; Roll mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.; (Optional) Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals (or use a double boiler) until smooth.; Dip each peanut butter ball in melted chocolate and return to the baking sheet.; Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, until firm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe for its ease and versatility. There’s no baking, no complicated steps, and they’re ready to chill in just 20 minutes. The peanut butter and powdered sugar create a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth center, while the optional chocolate coating adds an indulgent finish. They store beautifully in the fridge, making them perfect for make-ahead snacking or wrapping up as edible gifts during the holidays.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups powdered sugar
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (optional, for coating)

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, I combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract. I stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Gradually, I add the powdered sugar, mixing after each addition until a thick, smooth dough forms.
I scoop and roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
(Optional) For chocolate-coated peanut butter balls, I melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round, until smooth.
I dip each ball into the melted chocolate, making sure it’s fully coated, and return it to the parchment-lined sheet.
Once all the balls are coated (or left plain), I chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes until they’re firm and set.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 24 balls.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories per ball: 120 kcal

Variations

I sometimes use crunchy peanut butter for added texture, or swirl in a bit of honey or maple syrup for a twist in sweetness. For a different flavor profile, I substitute almond or cashew butter. I’ve also tried dipping them in white or dark chocolate, and even adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for a sweet-and-salty combo that really pops.

Storage/Reheating

I store these peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for pulling out a few whenever I need a quick treat. I don’t reheat them, but if frozen, I let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but I make sure it’s well stirred and not too runny, or the mixture may be too soft. If needed, I add a little extra powdered sugar to adjust the texture.

Do I have to dip them in chocolate?

Not at all. I often enjoy them plain—they’re just as delicious and a bit less sweet.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes. I use dairy-free butter and dairy-free chocolate chips for an entirely dairy-free version.

How do I make the coating extra smooth?

I make sure to melt the chocolate slowly and stir well. Adding a teaspoon of coconut oil to the melted chocolate helps it coat more smoothly and gives it a nice shine.

Are these safe to leave out at room temperature?

They’re fine at room temperature for a few hours, but I prefer to keep them chilled so they stay firm and fresh.

Conclusion

These No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls are one of my favorite quick treats—simple to make, easy to customize, and always satisfying. Whether I’m making a batch for a party tray, holiday gift box, or just to keep in the fridge for snacking, they never last long in my house. With or without chocolate, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.