Christmas Peanut Butter Balls

Sweet, creamy, and dipped in chocolate — these festive no-bake treats are a must-have for the holidays!

📌 Description

Christmas Peanut Butter Balls (also known as Buckeyes) are rich peanut-butter-based confections coated in smooth chocolate. Made with a handful of ingredients and no oven required, they’re perfect for gift giving, cookie trays, or festive snacking. The creamy peanut center pairs beautifully with the crisp chocolate shell for an irresistible bite!

🛒 Ingredients for Christmas Peanut Butter Balls 

• • 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter

  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 3–4 cups powdered sugar (as needed to form a dough)

• For the coating:

  • 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (or milk/dark based on preference)

  • 2 tbsp shortening or coconut oil (optional – for smoother coating)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Make the filling:

   • Beat peanut butter, butter, and vanilla until smooth.

   • Gradually mix in powdered sugar until stiff dough forms (it should be easy to roll into balls without sticking).

2. Shape:

   • Roll tablespoonfuls of dough into balls.

   • Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.

   • Freeze or chill for 20-30 minutes until firm.

3. Melt chocolate:

   • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and shortening in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

4. Dip:

   • Use a toothpick to dip each peanut ball into chocolate, fully coating or leaving a small “peanut butter eye” on top.

   • Return to parchment and chill until chocolate hardens.

5. Serve or store:

   • Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

📎 Notes

• If mixture is too sticky to roll, add more powdered sugar or chill briefly.

• You can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.

• White chocolate or colored candy melts make fun festive variations!

💡 Tips

• Chill thoroughly before dipping to avoid crumbs in the chocolate.

• Stick toothpicks into multiple balls first, then dip for faster coating.

• Decorate with sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or drizzle with contrasting chocolate before it sets.

🍽️ Servings

Makes approximately 36 balls.

🔬 Approximate Nutritional Info (per ball):

✅ Benefits

• No-bake & freezer-friendly

• Ideal for holiday gifting and dessert platters

• Customizable topping and coating options

• Kid-friendly & fun to make

❓ Q/A

Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?
A: It’s best to use processed creamy peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy). Natural versions tend to separate and may make the filling oily or too soft.

Q: How far in advance can I make them?
A: You can make them up to 2 weeks ahead and keep chilled. For longer storage, freeze up to 3 months — just thaw in the fridge before serving.

Q: My chocolate coating looks dull — what happened?
A: Chocolate that’s overheated or cooled too slowly may lose shine. Stir in shortening, dip chilled balls quickly, and refrigerate immediately for a glossy finish.