How to Make No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls

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🛒 Ingredients (Makes ~24 Balls)

1 cup creamy peanut butter (not “natural” or oily—use Jif or Skippy for best texture)

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

2 cups powdered sugar

1½ cups quick-cooking oats (not old-fashioned—too chewy!)

🍫 Optional Coatings

Melted chocolate (for dipping)

Crushed peanuts

Shredded coconut

Cocoa powder

Sprinkles

💡 Note: “Natural” peanut butter (oil-separated) makes balls too soft. Stick with emulsified brands for firm, rollable texture.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cream the Base

In a large bowl, beat peanut butter + butter until smooth and fluffy (~2 mins).

Add vanilla. Mix well.

2. Add Sweetness & Structure

Gradually beat in powdered sugar until fully combined (mixture will be thick).

Stir in quick oats by hand until no dry streaks remain.

3. Chill Briefly (Optional but Helpful)

If too soft to roll, refrigerate 10–15 minutes.

4. Roll into Balls

Scoop 1 tbsp portions (a small cookie scoop works great!).

Roll quickly between palms into smooth balls.

Place on a parchment-lined tray.

5. Chill to Set

Refrigerate at least 30 minutes (or freeze 15 mins) until firm.

6. Optional: Coat or Dip

For chocolate-dipped: Melt 1 cup chocolate chips + 1 tsp oil. Dip balls halfway, return to tray, chill until set.

For dry coatings: Roll chilled balls in cocoa, coconut, or crushed peanuts.

💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Balls

Use room-temp butter: Cold = lumpy; melted = greasy.

Don’t overmix oats: Gentle folds keep texture tender.

Store properly: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge up to 2 weeks or freezer up to 3 months.

Make it fancy: Add mini chocolate chips, flaky salt, or a pinch of cinnamon to the mix.

🎁 Serving & Gifting Ideas

Holiday tray: Roll in red/green sprinkles or crushed peppermint

Lunchbox snack: Pack 2–3 in a small container

Hostess gift: Layer in a mason jar with a ribbon

Post-workout bite: Protein-packed and satisfying!

❤️ Why These Balls Belong in Your Recipe Rotation

No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls aren’t just easy—they’re generous.

They say: “I’ve got you,” whether you’re hosting last-minute guests, packing school snacks, or treating yourself after a long day.

No fancy tools. No stress. Just pure, peanutty joy—shared with love.

💛 Final Thought

Great treats aren’t about complexity.

They’re about showing up with something sweet, simple, and satisfying—even on your busiest days.

So grab that peanut butter.

Roll a batch.

And watch them disappear (you might want to hide a few for yourself!).