Description
Ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
– 1 ½ cups crushed Reese’s Pieces
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil or shortening
Directions:
1. In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until a firm dough forms.
3. Stir in the crushed Reese’s Pieces until evenly distributed.
4. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for 20-30 minutes until firm.
5. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (or shortening) in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
6. Using a toothpick or fork, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing it back on the parchment paper.
7. Sprinkle a few crushed Reese’s Pieces on top of each ball for decoration, if desired.
8. Chill in the refrigerator until the chocolate is set, about 30 minutes.
9. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy!
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Chill Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Kcal: 120 kcal per piece | Servings: 36 pieces
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Balls every time.
- Prepare Your Workspace: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Ensure your butter is fully softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Make the Dough Base: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract for 2-3 minutes until completely smooth and creamy, with no lumps.
- Incorporate Sugar: With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the powdered sugar, about one cup at a time. Once combined, increase speed slightly to form a very thick, firm dough that holds together when pressed.
- Add the Candy: Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to fold in the crushed Reese’s Pieces until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Shape and Freeze: Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Freezing for a full 30 minutes is crucial for the balls to hold their shape during dipping.
- Temper the Chocolate: Combine chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring thoroughly after each interval, until the mixture is completely smooth and fluid. Do not overheat.
- Dip and Decorate: Remove a few balls from the freezer at a time. Spear a ball with a toothpick or fork, dip it fully into the chocolate, let the excess drip off, and gently slide it back onto the parchment. Immediately sprinkle with extra candy pieces before the chocolate sets.
- Set and Store: Refrigerate the tray for at least 30 minutes until the chocolate coating is firm. Transfer to an airtight container, with layers separated by parchment paper, and keep refrigerated.
Serving Suggestions
These treats are versatile! Serve them on a dessert platter at parties alongside coffee or milk. For a festive touch, use holiday-colored sprinkles instead of extra candy. They also make wonderful homemade gifts packaged in decorative boxes or cellophane bags.
How-to Summary
Create a creamy peanut butter dough with powdered sugar, mix in crushed Reese’s Pieces, form into balls, and freeze. Dip the firm balls in melted chocolate, decorate, and chill until set for a delicious, no-bake candy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter?
We do not recommend natural or drippy peanut butters, as the oil separation can prevent the dough from setting firmly. Use a standard, stabilized creamy peanut butter.
How long do these last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, they will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The chocolate coating helps preserve them.
Can I freeze the finished balls?
Yes, they freeze excellently for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
What can I use instead of coconut oil?
Shortening works identically. You can also use a high-quality melting chocolate (candy melts) designed for dipping, which may not require any added fat.
My chocolate is too thick for dipping. What do I do?
Gently re-warm the chocolate in the microwave for 10-15 seconds and stir. You can add a tiny bit more coconut oil (1/2 teaspoon at a time) to thin it to a dipping consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Freezing Long Enough: If the balls are too soft, they may fall apart or lose their shape in the warm chocolate. Ensure they are rock-solid from the freezer.
- Overheating the Chocolate: Burnt chocolate will seize and become grainy. Always use short intervals and stir well.
- Warm Kitchen: Work quickly during dipping and keep unused balls in the freezer. A warm room can cause the balls to soften and the chocolate to set slowly.
- Using Chunky Peanut Butter: This can make rolling smooth balls difficult. Stick to creamy peanut butter for the correct texture.
Conclusion
These Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Balls are a simple, no-bake delight that combines beloved flavors into a bite-sized treat. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a professional-looking confection perfect for sharing. Their make-ahead convenience and crowd-pleasing taste make them a guaranteed hit for any occasion.