If you’ve ever found yourself torn between snacking on something rich and chocolatey or reaching for a spoonful of peanut butter, these Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies are about to become your new obsession. Each bite delivers that perfect balance of creamy, nutty goodness enrobed in a glossy chocolate shell, and the best part is: they’re incredibly easy to whip up, requiring no oven time at all! With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll have the ultimate sweet treat that’s perfect for sharing (or keeping to yourself, we won’t judge!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something magic about such a simple list coming together to create pure chocolate-peanut butter bliss. Every ingredient plays a key role in building the flavor, texture, and irresistible allure of these Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies, so let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Creamy Peanut Butter: Go with your favorite creamy style for that classic smooth texture and iconic flavor base.
- Unsalted Butter (softened): Softened butter brings a luscious richness and helps the filling hold together beautifully.
- Salt: Just a touch to balance the sweetness and bring out the best in the peanut butter.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth, enhancing both the peanut butter and chocolate notes.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the filling and transforms it into a thick, moldable dough.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: The perfect chocolate coating—melty, rich, and not too sweet.
- Coconut Oil or Shortening: Melts with the chocolate for a smooth, glossy finish that’s easy to dip.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies
Step 1: Mix the Filling
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Combine your creamy peanut butter, softened butter, salt, and vanilla extract. Use a sturdy spatula or hand mixer to blend everything until it’s completely smooth and uniform. This is when the magic starts—the aroma is heavenly!
Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar, stirring as you go. The mixture will turn from creamy to a thick, pliable dough. If it becomes too stiff to stir with a spoon, use your hands to gently knead the dough until no streaks of sugar remain. You should end up with a soft but moldable ball.
Step 3: Shape the Balls
Pinch off enough dough to roll into a 1-inch ball and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat until you’ve used up all the dough—you should get about 24 balls. Don’t worry if they’re a little wonky; the chocolate will cover a multitude of shaping sins!
Step 4: Chill
Pop the baking sheet into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is key to making sure your balls firm up and don’t fall apart when dipped in the warm chocolate later on. Patience, my friend!
Step 5: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your chocolate chips with a tablespoon of coconut oil or shortening. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until the mixture is silky smooth and glossy. The coconut oil keeps the chocolate thin enough for perfect dipping.
Step 6: Dip and Chill
This is where the Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies really come to life. Using a fork or toothpick, dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, letting any excess drip off. Place them back on the parchment and, if you love extra chocolate, drizzle any leftover coating on top. Return to the fridge to set the chocolate—about 15 minutes does the trick!
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies
Garnishes
To elevate your Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies, try sprinkling a touch of flaky sea salt, chopped roasted peanuts, or a drizzle of white chocolate over the top while the coating is still wet. Each adds a fun twist and makes your candies look extra special on a dessert platter.
Side Dishes
While these little treats can absolutely steal the show on their own, they pair beautifully with a chilled glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even some fresh berries for a pop of brightness. For a party vibe, serve alongside other bite-sized desserts for a stunning sweets tray.
Creative Ways to Present
Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies look adorable nestled in mini cupcake liners or displayed in a fancy candy dish. If you’re gifting them, stack them in layers in a glass jar or a cute tin lined with parchment paper—add a ribbon and you’ve got the sweetest homemade present!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies fresh and perfect, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week—though if your household is anything like mine, they rarely last that long!
Freezing
These candies freeze like a dream. Arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. When you’re ready for a sweet fix, thaw them at room temperature or in the fridge; they’ll taste just as lovely as the day you made them.
Reheating
No reheating is required since these are no-bake treats. If you want to enjoy them a little softer, take them out of the fridge or freezer a few minutes before serving. They’ll reach just the right level of creamy and chocolatey in no time.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter for these candies?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter is a fantastic way to add extra texture and a bit more peanutty crunch to every bite. It works just as well as creamy—just use an equal amount.
How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing or turning grainy?
The key is to melt the chocolate and coconut oil slowly in the microwave, stopping to stir every 30 seconds. Be gentle, as overheating can cause chocolate to seize. If in doubt, you can also use a double boiler.
Do Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies have to be refrigerated?
While they can safely sit out for short periods (like at parties), they stay freshest and hold their shape best when stored in the fridge, especially in warm or humid climates.
What’s the best way to dip the candies in chocolate?
Chill the peanut butter centers thoroughly first. Use a fork or a toothpick to dip and coat each ball, letting the excess chocolate drip off before setting them on the baking sheet. Don’t stress about perfection—the rustic look is charming!
Can I add extra flavors or mix-ins?
Get creative! Stir in a handful of mini chocolate chips or toffee bits into the peanut butter dough, or swap the vanilla for almond extract for a twist. You can also finish the tops with a sprinkle of sea salt or colored sprinkles.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about making your own Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies—they’re simple, nostalgic, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give them a whirl; I have a feeling they’ll become a favorite in your home, too!
Print
Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 24 candies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth cravings. Creamy peanut butter centers coated in rich chocolate make for a decadent treat that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Chocolate Coating:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening
Instructions
- Prepare Peanut Butter Filling: In a large bowl, mix peanut butter, softened butter, salt, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar until a thick dough forms.
- Shape into Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator until firm, about 30 minutes.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second intervals until smooth.
- Coat Peanut Butter Balls: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place back on the baking sheet.
- Set Chocolate: Chill the candies until the chocolate coating is set, approximately 15 minutes. Store in the refrigerator.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, use crunchy peanut butter.
- You can drizzle extra melted chocolate on top for decoration.
- These candies freeze well for extended storage.
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