No Bake Peanut Butter Balls – Easy Chocolate-Dipped Treats
There’s something truly magical about peanut butter and chocolate — a timeless duo that makes any day sweeter. No Bake Peanut Butter Balls are the ultimate easy dessert: rich, creamy, and deliciously nostalgic. They’re everything you want in a quick treat — buttery peanut flavor, a touch of sweetness, and a crisp chocolate shell that gives the most satisfying bite.
This recipe brings back memories of holidays in the kitchen, with parchment-lined trays full of glossy chocolate-coated peanut butter balls cooling on the counter. The best part? There’s no oven required. Just mix, roll, dip, and chill — and before you know it, you’ll have a batch of irresistibly smooth, sweet, and salty perfection.
Whether you’re preparing for a cookie exchange, a family gathering, or just craving a bite of something sweet, these little peanut butter bites will always be a hit.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural-style)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1½ cups crushed graham cracker crumbs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon shortening or coconut oil (for smooth chocolate coating)
- Crushed peanuts or flaky salt for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the peanut butter mixture.
In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy. - Add dry ingredients.
Stir in powdered sugar and crushed graham cracker crumbs. Mix until a soft but rollable dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a bit more graham crumbs; if too dry, add a spoonful of peanut butter. - Shape into balls.
Scoop about a tablespoon of dough at a time and roll into smooth balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. - Chill the balls.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up before dipping. - Melt the chocolate.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with shortening or coconut oil in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth and glossy. - Dip the peanut butter balls.
Using a fork or dipping tool, coat each chilled ball in melted chocolate. Let the excess drip off before placing it back on the parchment paper. - Optional garnish.
Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle with crushed peanuts or flaky salt for extra texture and a touch of gourmet flair. - Chill again.
Place the tray in the fridge until the chocolate is fully set, about 20–30 minutes. - Serve and enjoy.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve — though fair warning, they disappear fast!
Tips & Tricks
- Perfect texture: Use regular creamy peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy), not natural, to ensure a smooth and firm result.
- Make it festive: Decorate with white chocolate drizzle or colorful sprinkles for holidays and parties.
- Mess-free dipping: Chill balls thoroughly before dipping so they don’t fall apart in warm chocolate.
- Peanut-free version: Substitute sunflower seed butter or almond butter for allergies.
No Bake Peanut Butter Balls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine peanut butter, butter, and vanilla extract until creamy.
- Add powdered sugar and graham crumbs; mix until dough forms.
- Roll dough into balls and place on parchment-lined tray.
- Chill for 30 minutes.
- Melt chocolate with shortening until smooth.
- Dip chilled balls into chocolate, garnish, and refrigerate until set.
Notes
Variations
- Crunchy Twist: Stir in crushed pretzels or Rice Krispies for added crunch.
- Dark Chocolate Version: Swap semisweet for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Double Chocolate: Mix in mini chocolate chips into the peanut butter base before rolling.
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein powder to the peanut butter mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these No Bake Peanut Butter Balls as bite-sized desserts after dinner, pack them in a holiday tin for gifting, or keep them chilled for a grab-and-go sweet snack. They’re especially wonderful alongside coffee or hot cocoa.
You can also serve them at dessert tables, potlucks, or weddings — their small size and elegant look make them both easy and impressive.
Storage Information
Store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Simply thaw in the fridge before serving.
FAQ
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! They actually get better as they chill. You can make them days in advance for parties or holidays.
Can I skip the chocolate coating?
Definitely — roll them in powdered sugar, cocoa powder, or crushed peanuts instead for a different look.
Why add shortening or coconut oil to the chocolate?
It helps create a smooth, glossy finish and prevents the chocolate from cracking when you bite in.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Natural peanut butter separates more easily and can make the mixture too oily. Stick to a stabilized peanut butter for best results.
History / Fun Facts
No Bake Peanut Butter Balls — also called “Buckeyes” when partially dipped — originated in the American Midwest, where peanut butter and chocolate desserts became staples of family gatherings. The name “Buckeye” comes from their resemblance to the nut of the Ohio buckeye tree.
Over time, variations have spread across the U.S., from crunchy, nut-filled versions to festive coated ones during Christmas. They’ve become a nostalgic, no-fuss dessert that combines simplicity with irresistible flavor.
