Peanut Butter Balls are a timeless, bite-sized treat that masterfully blends creamy peanut butter, a whisper of sweetness, and a rich chocolate shell. Sometimes called Buckeyes, these no-bake confections are ideal for holidays, gifting, parties, and whenever you crave something simple yet indulgent.
Their delightfully smooth centers, deep chocolatey coating, and hint of salt make each bite a perfect balance of comfort and decadence. Easy to make with pantry staples and a hit with both kids and adults, Peanut Butter Balls never go out of style.
Why You’ll Love It
Each ball offers melt-in-your-mouth creaminess with a gentle peanut crunch and a satisfying snap of chocolate. They’re fast to prepare, require zero oven time, and can be tailored for different tastes—add in crispy rice, coconut, or swap chocolate types. *
Perfect for make-ahead snacking or elegant dessert platters, they store well in the fridge or freezer and are easy to pack up for gifts. You’ll love that they only take a handful of ingredients, and the results are guaranteed crowd-pleasers every time.
Key Ingredients
Creamy peanut butter forms the core, lending rich texture and nutty depth. Powdered sugar is essential to create a thick, smooth, sweet fudge; it also makes the balls easy to roll and dip. Butter provides extra creaminess and stability.
For the enrobing shell, semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips melt into a luscious dip, with a touch of coconut oil for a glossy, easy-to-bite finish. Salt enhances all the flavors, and optional vanilla rounds out the filling with gentle fragrance.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 1/2 – 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening
- Optional for garnish: sea salt flakes, melted white chocolate, crushed peanuts
Preparation
In a large bowl, beat peanut butter and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add salt, vanilla if using, and gradually mix in powdered sugar—start with 2 1/2 cups and add more as needed until the dough is soft but holds its shape when rolled. The mixture should not stick to your hands.
Scoop out teaspoonfuls and roll into 1-inch balls, placing them on a parchment-lined tray. Once all balls are shaped, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or freeze for 15 minutes). Chilling keeps them firm and makes dipping easier.
Meanwhile, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil together in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth and glossy.
Using a fork or dipping tool, dunk each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off before replacing on the tray. For classic Buckeyes, leave a small circle of peanut butter exposed at the top; for fully-coated balls, submerge completely.
Optional: while chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with sea salt, extra nuts, or drizzle with melted white chocolate for a decorative finish.
Chill dipped balls in the fridge until chocolate sets—about 30 minutes. Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.
Technique & Assembly
Getting the filling texture right is key: add powdered sugar slowly, mixing after each addition, until the peanut butter mixture pulls away from the bowl and rolls easily without sagging or sticking. Use a small cookie scoop or melon baller for uniform pieces.
Chill before dipping to prevent mess and keep the shape. Melt chocolate gently—overheated chocolate can seize or become grainy. Use coconut oil for a smooth, snappy finish; it also prevents chocolate from cracking.
Dip balls one at a time; hold by a toothpick or fork for less mess. Let excess chocolate drip off for neat rounds. Set on parchment or silicone mats for easy removal after chilling.
If decorating, add toppings right after dipping so they adhere well. For sharp stripes, drizzle contrasting chocolate with a fork or piping bag.
Tips & Tricks
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother mix.
- Don’t rush chilling the balls before dipping—soft centers will fall apart.
- If chocolate thickens during coating, rewarm gently in 10-second microwave bursts.
- Don’t overcrowd baking sheets when chilling; space allows chocolate to set beautifully.
- Use gloves or dust hands lightly with powdered sugar to keep rolling neat.
- Store balls in single layers with parchment in between to prevent sticking.
- Peanut Butter Balls can be made weeks ahead—freeze in airtight containers and thaw at room temp for serving.
For gifting, layer in tissue-lined boxes, cellophane bags, or decorative tins. Add custom tags for holiday or celebration flair.
Substitutions and Variations
Try crunchy peanut butter for more texture, or natural peanut butter for a less sweet, earthier bite (note: you may need more sugar if using natural).
Swap in almond, sunflower, or cashew butter for a nutty twist; all work well for allergy-friendly versions. For a sweeter filling, add a dash of maple syrup or honey (just reduce other sugars slightly).
Mix in mini chocolate chips, chopped toffee, or toasted coconut for filling surprise. Roll balls in chopped peanuts, sprinkles, or cocoa powder before chocolate dipping for an outer crunch.
Use milk or white chocolate, or layer dark and white chocolate for dramatic stripes. Gluten-free powdered sugar makes these suitable for sensitive diets.
For a “cookie dough” vibe, stir in mini chips or crushed pretzels before rolling into balls. Add espresso powder and top with crushed coffee beans for an adult-friendly coffeehouse version.
Dietary tweaks: dairy-free butter and vegan chocolate keep these plant-based.
Try adding a few tablespoons of protein powder for a post-workout snack, adjusting sugar as needed for texture.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut Butter Balls steal the show on cookie trays alongside brownies, fudge, and sugar cookies for holidays. For parties, serve on beautiful platters stacked in small pyramids, interspersed with chocolate bark or truffles.
Tuck into lunchboxes or serve as after-school treats—kids adore their size and simple flavors. For dessert boards, pair with sliced fruit, pretzels, and strawberries for a luscious sweet-and-salty spread.
Offer as edible gifts—wrapped and tied in festive ribbon, they deliver homemade love. For special occasions, plate in mini cupcake liners for perfect portioning and neat presentation.
Store balls in the fridge for a cool, creamy snack anytime. For hot weather parties, serve slightly thawed from frozen for ice-cream-like bite.
Chop leftover balls and scatter on ice cream, oatmeal, or yogurt for a surprise candy boost. They’re also delicious crumbled into parfaits or as cake pop centers.
For elegant events, finish with edible gold leaf or dust with sparkling sugar for a party effect.
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter Balls are the embodiment of simple indulgence—easy, nostalgic, and endlessly customizable. Whether you know them as Buckeyes, truffles, or candy balls, every batch delivers rich peanut flavor, smooth filling, and the magic of home baking. Perfect for gifting, snacking, or sweet celebration, these no-bake treats are always in style and always bring smiles.
