3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls

These simple peanut butter balls need just three basic ingredients and take 20 minutes to prepare. After a quick chill in the fridge, they're ready to enjoy, with optional chocolate coating for extra indulgence.

Featured in Sweet Treats and Baked Goods.

Fatiha
Updated on Sun, 05 Jan 2025 01:31:19 GMT
A bowl filled with several round, beige energy balls sits on a textured surface. Pin it
A bowl filled with several round, beige energy balls sits on a textured surface. | zestplate.com

These no-bake 3-ingredient Peanut Butter Balls are a quick and easy treat bursting with peanut butter flavor. Made with pantry staples, they come together in just minutes and are perfect for snacking, sharing, or indulging a sweet tooth. Minimal effort, maximum deliciousness!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a lifesaver when you're short on time or ingredients. With just three pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of creamy, melt-in-your-mouth peanut butter balls. They're no-bake, super versatile, and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for a quick snack anytime. Bonus: they taste just like a peanut butter cookie!

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Balls

  • Creamy Peanut Butter: 1 cup, use regular peanut butter for best results.
  • Powdered Sugar: 1 cup, adds sweetness and helps bind.
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: 1 cup, provides structure and texture.
  • Optional Toppings:
    • Melted chocolate for dipping
    • Crushed peanuts for garnish
    • Sea salt for sprinkling

How to Make Peanut Butter Balls

Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, and graham cracker crumbs until well mixed.
Form the Balls
Roll mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until firm.
Optional Chocolate Coating
Dip chilled balls in melted chocolate and return to refrigerator until set.
A plate of round, beige cookie dough balls dusted with powdered sugar, with one ball partially bitten to reveal a creamy filling inside. Pin it
A plate of round, beige cookie dough balls dusted with powdered sugar, with one ball partially bitten to reveal a creamy filling inside. | zestplate.com

Storage and Serving Tips

Store peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Optional: Coat the balls in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long do these peanut butter balls last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these peanut butter balls will last for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
→ Why does the butter need to be softened?
Softened butter blends more easily with the peanut butter, creating a smoother mixture without lumps. This helps achieve the perfect texture for rolling into balls.
→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
While the recipe calls for creamy peanut butter, you can use crunchy if you prefer. Just note that the texture will be different and they might be slightly harder to roll into smooth balls.
→ Do I have to add the vanilla?
No, the vanilla extract is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor. The peanut butter balls will still be delicious without it.
→ Why do they need to chill?
Chilling helps the balls firm up and hold their shape. This makes them easier to handle and gives them a better texture when eating.

Conclusion

These simple peanut butter balls are a quick and easy treat that requires minimal ingredients and preparation time. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert, they can be customized with optional chocolate coating and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls

Quick and easy peanut butter balls made with just peanut butter, butter, and powdered sugar. Optional vanilla and chocolate coating.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
40 Minutes
By: Fatiha

Category: Desserts

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 28 Servings (26-28 balls)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 1 cup creamy peanut butter.
02 ½ cup butter softened (salted or unsalted).
03 2 ¼ cups powdered sugar.
04 ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional).
05 Melted chocolate for dipping or drizzling (optional).

Instructions

Step 01

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.

Step 02

In a large mixing bowl, use a handheld mixer to cream the peanut butter and butter together until well combined. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract (if using) and beat until fully combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 03

Form the batter into tablespoon-sized balls, then place on the baking sheet. Chill for at least 20 minutes before devouring.

Notes

  1. Can be made with salted or unsalted butter.
  2. Optional vanilla extract and chocolate coating for extra flavor.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking sheet.
  • Parchment paper.
  • Handheld mixer.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Peanuts.
  • Dairy.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 128
  • Total Fat: 9 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 12 g
  • Protein: 2 g