Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Balls are a nostalgic, no-bake dessert perfect for any occasion, especially during the holidays! Made with creamy peanut butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and a luscious chocolate coating, these bite-sized treats are a delightful combination of sweet, salty, and rich flavors. They’re simple to make, fun to decorate, and always a hit with both kids and adults.
Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Balls
These Peanut Butter Balls are a true classic, balancing the creamy richness of peanut butter with the crunch of graham crackers and the sweetness of powdered sugar. Dipped in a glossy chocolate coating, they’re indulgent, easy to make, and perfect for gifting, snacking, or serving at parties.
Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Balls
- No-Bake Simplicity: Easy to whip up without turning on the oven.
- Rich and Indulgent: Perfectly sweet and salty, with a creamy center and a chocolate shell.
- Versatile: Can be made ahead and stored, making them great for holidays and gatherings.
Ingredients Notes for Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Balls
- 1½ cups creamy peanut butter: The base for the filling, providing a smooth, rich texture. Crunchy peanut butter can also be used for added texture.
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs: Adds a delightful crunch and helps bind the mixture.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and creates the perfect consistency.
- 10 ounces chocolate melting wafers: Ensures a smooth, even coating for the balls. Additional chocolate may be needed depending on your coating thickness.
- Optional Garnish: Sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs, sea salt, or festive sprinkles for added flair.
Kitchen Tools Needed for Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Balls
- Mixing bowl
- Medium cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate
- Wax paper or parchment paper
- Fork or dipping tool (for coating in chocolate)
How to Make Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Balls
Step 1: Mix the Peanut Butter Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together the creamy peanut butter, graham cracker crumbs, and powdered sugar until fully combined. The mixture should hold its shape when pressed.
Step 2: Shape into Balls
Use a medium cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons) to portion out the mixture. Roll each portion between your palms to form smooth, evenly sized balls.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
Melt the chocolate wafers in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring between each one until fully melted and smooth.
Step 4: Dip in Chocolate
Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Lift the ball out, letting excess chocolate drip off, and place it on wax paper to set. While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs, sea salt, or sprinkles, if desired.
Step 5: Let Set and Serve
Allow the chocolate coating to set completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Once set, serve and enjoy these delightful treats!
How to Store Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Balls
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks for a firmer texture.
- Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Ball Variations
- Crunchy Peanut Butter Balls: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- Dark Chocolate Coating: Substitute dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.
- Nutty Topping: Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top for extra crunch.
- Festive Flair: Decorate with colored sprinkles for holidays or special occasions.
What to Serve with Peanut Butter Balls
- Coffee or Hot Chocolate: Perfectly balances the richness of the peanut butter and chocolate.
- Milk: A classic pairing that complements the sweet and salty flavors.
- Dessert Platter: Add them to a cookie or candy tray alongside fudge, truffles, or cookies.
Top Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Balls
- Chill the Mixture: If the peanut butter mixture is too sticky to roll, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes.
- Thin the Chocolate: If the melted chocolate is too thick, add 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening to thin it out for easier dipping.
- Work Quickly: To prevent the chocolate from hardening, only melt enough to coat a small batch at a time.
- Smooth Finish: Use a toothpick to pop any air bubbles in the chocolate coating before it sets.
Helpful Notes
- If you don’t have graham crackers, you can substitute with crushed pretzels or digestive biscuits.
- Make sure to fully coat the balls in chocolate to keep them fresh longer.
- These are perfect for gifting—package them in decorative tins or boxes lined with wax paper.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ree Drummond: “A pinch of sea salt on top adds the perfect balance to the sweet chocolate.
- Martha Stewart: “Keep the balls uniform by using a cookie scoop for portioning.
- Sally McKenney: “Decorate while the chocolate is still wet so toppings stick properly.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but the texture may be softer. You may need to adjust the powdered sugar or chill the mixture longer.
2. Can I freeze these for later?
Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container.
3. What’s the best way to coat them in chocolate?
Using a fork or dipping tool ensures even coverage. Tap gently on the side of the bowl to remove excess chocolate.
4. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark or semisweet?
Yes! Milk chocolate works great for a sweeter flavor.
5. How do I prevent the balls from sticking to the wax paper?
Ensure the chocolate coating is fully set before lifting them off the wax paper.
Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Balls are a no-fail, nostalgic treat that’s perfect for any dessert table. Their creamy, sweet, and salty flavor makes them impossible to resist!
Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Balls No Bake
Ingredients
- – 1½ cups creamy peanut butter
- – 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- – 1 cup powdered sugar
- – 10 ounces chocolate melting wafers
Instructions
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the peanut butter, graham cracker crumbs, and powdered sugar until fully combined.
- Form the Balls: Use a medium cookie scoop, about 1.5 tablespoons, to measure out even amounts of the peanut butter mixture. Roll the mixture between your palms to form balls.
- Melt the Chocolate: Melt the chocolate in the microwave on 30-second intervals, stirring between each one until fully melted.
- Dip and Decorate: Dip the peanut butter balls in chocolate and place them on wax paper to set. Sprinkle the tops with extra graham cracker crumbs or sprinkles, if desired.
- Set and Store: Allow the chocolate to set completely. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, in the fridge for up to 3 weeks, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Notes
- Crunchy peanut butter can be used for added texture.
- Additional chocolate may be needed for coating, depending on the brand and thickness.
- These treats make a great holiday gift!