No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls

Ingredients

Instructions

1. 1

   MAKE THE FILLING: In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix with a wooden spoon or electric mixer on low speed for 2-3 minutes until completely smooth and well combined. The mixture should be thick but pliable, like cookie dough. If it's too crumbly, add a teaspoon more peanut butter; if too sticky, add a bit more powdered sugar.

2. 2

   SHAPE THE BALLS: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll between your palms to form a 1-inch ball. If the mixture sticks to your hands, chill it for 10 minutes or lightly dust your hands with powdered sugar. Place balls on the prepared tray, spacing them about 1 inch apart. You should get about 24 balls.

3. 3

   FREEZE UNTIL FIRM: Place the tray in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. The balls need to be very firm so they hold their shape when dipped in warm chocolate. They should feel solid when you press them gently.

4. 4

   MELT THE CHOCOLATE: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely melted and smooth. The mixture should be thin enough to easily coat the balls. If too thick, add a tiny bit more coconut oil.

5. 5

   DIP IN CHOCOLATE: Insert a toothpick into the top of each frozen ball. Dip into the melted chocolate, submerging about 3/4 of the ball and leaving a small circle of peanut butter visible at the top (this is the classic 'Buckeye' look). Let excess chocolate drip off for a few seconds, then place back on the parchment. Remove the toothpick by twisting gently. Use a small dab of chocolate to cover the toothpick hole if desired.

6. 6

   SET AND STORE: Refrigerate the dipped balls for at least 15-20 minutes until the chocolate is completely set and no longer tacky. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months. Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving.