Christmas Peanut Butter Balls Recipe: A Festive Holiday Treat
The holiday season is a time for indulgence, and what better way to celebrate than with a batch of rich, creamy, and chocolatey Christmas Peanut Butter Balls? This classic holiday treat combines the beloved duo of chocolate and peanut butter, with an added festive twist to make them perfect for your Christmas gatherings. Here’s how you can create these delightful treats, sure to bring holiday cheer to everyone who takes a bite.
Ingredients
For the Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips or dark chocolate (about 1.5 cups)
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil (or vegetable oil) for a smooth finish
For Decoration (optional):
- Festive holiday sprinkles
- Crushed peppermint candy
- Sea salt flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and softened butter. Beat them together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar gradually, about 1/2 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt for added depth.
- Once the mixture has a dough-like consistency, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to roll.
- Shape the Peanut Butter Balls:
- After the mixture has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator.
- Roll the peanut butter mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, using your hands. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Once all the balls are formed, place them in the freezer for 15–20 minutes to firm up. This step will help them hold their shape when dipped in chocolate.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil.
- Microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring each time, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chocolate to seize.
- Dip the Peanut Butter Balls:
- Remove the peanut butter balls from the freezer.
- Using a fork or toothpick, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, letting any excess chocolate drip back into the bowl.
- Place each dipped ball back onto the parchment paper and add your chosen decorations while the chocolate is still wet. You can use festive sprinkles, crushed peppermint, or a pinch of sea salt.
- Chill and Set:
- Once all the balls are coated and decorated, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate is completely set.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- When the chocolate has hardened, your Christmas Peanut Butter Balls are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Tips for Perfect Christmas Peanut Butter Balls
- Opt for High-Quality Chocolate: The chocolate coating is crucial to the overall flavor, so consider using a good-quality chocolate that balances the sweetness of the filling.
- Use a Cold Surface for Rolling: Chilling the peanut butter mixture before rolling makes it much easier to handle. You can also keep a small tray in the freezer to rest the balls on while working with the chocolate.
- Get Creative with Decorations: Christmas is all about fun and creativity! Try adding white chocolate drizzle, edible glitter, or a touch of gold leaf for a luxe holiday look.
- Make Ahead for Convenience: These treats store well, so you can make them a few days before your holiday event to save time. Just remember to keep them refrigerated.
A Christmas Treat for All Ages
Christmas Peanut Butter Balls are a nostalgic treat that bring joy to the holiday season. The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate is hard to resist, while the festive decorations add a touch of holiday magic to every bite. This recipe is not only easy to make but also fun for the whole family, allowing you to create memorable moments together in the kitchen.
So, this holiday season, bring out the mixing bowls, gather your loved ones, and indulge in a batch of Christmas Peanut Butter Balls – a treat as delightful to make as it is to eat!
