3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls

Featured in: Simple Sweet Treats

These no-bake peanut butter balls combine creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar into a smooth dough, chilled to firm, then dipped in melted chocolate. The result is a rich, bite-sized delight with a hint of sweetness and a silky chocolate coating. Perfect chilled or at room temperature, they make a fuss-free indulgence with minimal prep time and few ingredients.

Updated on Mon, 08 Dec 2025 21:06:02 GMT
Close-up of luscious 3-ingredient Peanut Butter Balls, coated in dark chocolate, a perfect bite. Save
Close-up of luscious 3-ingredient Peanut Butter Balls, coated in dark chocolate, a perfect bite. | honeyflint.com

These 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls are a delightful no-bake dessert that combines creamy peanut butter, sweet powdered sugar, and rich semi-sweet chocolate into bite-sized treats. Perfect for any occasion, they require minimal effort yet deliver maximum flavor and a nostalgic taste reminiscent of homemade candy classics.

Close-up of luscious 3-ingredient Peanut Butter Balls, coated in dark chocolate, a perfect bite. Save
Close-up of luscious 3-ingredient Peanut Butter Balls, coated in dark chocolate, a perfect bite. | honeyflint.com

This recipe’s simplicity makes it ideal for both beginners and seasoned cooks craving a nostalgic sweet. The peanut butter center is smooth and satisfying, while the chocolate coating offers a perfect contrast in texture and flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (240 g) creamy peanut butter
  • 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar
  • 2 cups (340 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Mix peanut butter and powdered sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth and a stiff dough forms.
2. Roll into balls
Scoop out 1-tablespoon portions and roll into balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Chill the balls
Chill the balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Melt the chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
5. Dip the peanut butter balls
Using a toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball about 3/4 of the way into the melted chocolate, leaving a small circle of peanut butter exposed on top to resemble a buckeye nut.
6. Refrigerate to set
Return the dipped balls to the baking sheet and refrigerate until chocolate is set, about 15 minutes.
7. Serve
Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For best results, use creamy peanut butter rather than natural varieties to prevent separation in the mixture. Mixing thoroughly until a smooth dough forms ensures easier rolling. Chilling the balls before dipping helps the chocolate adhere evenly, creating that classic buckeye look.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of salt or a splash of vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture. Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips, but keep allergen considerations in mind. These peanut butter balls can be stored chilled or frozen for longer enjoyment.

Serviervorschläge

These peanut butter balls are perfect for dessert tables, holiday gift boxes, or simple snacking. Serve them chilled for a firm bite or at room temperature for a softer texture. They pair wonderfully with coffee or cold milk.

These easy-to-make Peanut Butter Balls feature a smooth, peanut butter center, ready to eat. Save
These easy-to-make Peanut Butter Balls feature a smooth, peanut butter center, ready to eat. | honeyflint.com

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, these Peanut Butter Balls bring a nostalgic charm back to your kitchen. Their effortless assembly and classic taste make them an all-time favorite treat to enjoy any time of the year.

Recipe FAQs

What type of peanut butter works best?

Creamy peanut butter is preferred for a smooth texture; natural varieties may cause separation.

How do I melt the chocolate without burning it?

Microwave the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until completely smooth.

Can these be stored for later?

Yes, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze up to two months.

Is chilling necessary before dipping in chocolate?

Chilling firms the dough for easy handling and helps the coating set better.

Can I add flavor variations?

Adding a pinch of salt or a splash of vanilla extract can enhance the flavor profile nicely.

3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls

Creamy peanut butter blended with powdered sugar and coated in chocolate for a delicious sweet bite.

Prep duration
20 minutes
0
Total duration
20 minutes
Recipe by Julia Fenmore

Recipe group Simple Sweet Treats

Skill level Easy

Cuisine type American

Makes 24 Portions

Diet info Meatless, No gluten

What you'll need

Peanut Butter Mixture

01 1 cup creamy peanut butter
02 2 cups powdered sugar

Chocolate Coating

01 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Preparation steps

Step 01

Prepare peanut butter dough: Combine creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl. Stir until a smooth, stiff dough forms.

Step 02

Form balls: Scoop 1 tablespoon portions of the dough and roll into balls. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 03

Chill the balls: Refrigerate the peanut butter balls for at least 30 minutes to firm.

Step 04

Melt chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring until completely smooth.

Step 05

Dip balls in chocolate: Using a toothpick, dip each ball about three-quarters into the melted chocolate, leaving a small circle uncovered on top to mimic a buckeye nut.

Step 06

Set the coating: Place the dipped balls back on the parchment-lined sheet and refrigerate until the chocolate is set, approximately 15 minutes.

Step 07

Serve: Enjoy the peanut butter balls chilled or at room temperature.

Tools needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Toothpicks

Allergy details

Review each item for allergens and check with your doctor if unsure.
  • Contains peanuts and soy. May contain milk depending on chocolate chips used. Verify allergen information on packaging.

Nutrition details (each serving)

Information here is just a guide—talk to your doctor for personal advice.
  • Calorie count: 140
  • Fat content: 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 17 grams
  • Proteins: 2 grams