Peanut Butter Balls

30 servings Prep: 20 m Cook: 15 m Total: 35 m Beginner
5.0/5 (3)
Peanut Butter Balls
This is a great candy for children to make with peanut butter, chocolate, and confectioners sugar. Delicious and perfect for Christmas and holiday gatherings—these no-bake treats are always a hit at parties.

Ingredients

30 servings
  • 2 sticks butter
  • 2 lbs confectioners sugar
  • 2 (12 oz) bags of semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/4 lb paraffin wax
  • 1 (18 oz) jar peanut butter or Peter Pan Honey Peanut Butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and peanut butter together, stirring until smooth. Stir in the confectioners sugar until well combined. Remove from heat and let cool for 10-15 minutes until the mixture can be handled comfortably. Shape into 1-inch balls and place on a wax paper-lined baking sheet.
  2. In a fondue pot or double boiler, melt the chocolate chips and paraffin wax together over low heat, stirring until smooth. Using a fork or skewer, dip each ball in the chocolate mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then place on wax paper until cooled and firm, about 15-20 minutes. Store in a closed container in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why are my peanut butter balls falling apart when I dip them?

A: Make sure the peanut butter mixture is thoroughly cooled and firm before dipping. You can chill the shaped balls in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to make them easier to handle. Also, work quickly when dipping to prevent the chocolate from cooling on the fork.

Q: Can I skip the paraffin wax?

A: The paraffin wax helps create a shiny, firm chocolate coating that doesn't melt as easily at room temperature. If you prefer to skip it, you can use all chocolate, but the coating may be softer and should be stored in the refrigerator.

Tips and Techniques

If you don’t have a fondue pot or double boiler, you can melt the chocolate and wax in a heat-safe bowl set over a pot of simmering water. Make sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water to prevent scorching.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • paraffin wax: coconut oil or additional chocolate
  • semi-sweet chocolate chips: milk chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips
  • Peter Pan Honey Peanut Butter: any creamy peanut butter

Equipment Needed

  • medium saucepan
  • fondue pot or double boiler
  • wax paper
  • fork or skewer for dipping
  • baking sheet