### Tips for Success
– **Chill the Peanut Butter Mixture**: Once you’ve mixed the peanut butter and powdered sugar, refrigerate the mixture for 15-30 minutes before rolling. This helps the balls hold their shape and makes them easier to roll.
– **Use High-Quality Peanut Butter**: The flavor of the peanut butter is central to this treat, so choose a natural, high-quality peanut butter without added sugars or hydrogenated oils for the best taste.
– **Roll Evenly**: For consistent-sized balls, use a tablespoon or a cookie scoop to measure the mixture before rolling them into uniform spheres.
– **Melt Chocolate Carefully**: When melting chocolate, do so in short bursts in the microwave (15-20 seconds at a time) or over a double boiler. Stir well between intervals to avoid overheating.
– **Storage**: These peanut butter balls store well in an airtight container for up to a week in the fridge, or can be frozen for longer shelf life. Make sure they’re in a single layer to avoid sticking together.
### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture**: In a medium bowl, mix together the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If you want added texture, stir in rolled oats. Mix until smooth and well combined. If the mixture feels too soft, refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to firm it up.
2. **Form the Balls**: Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion the peanut butter mixture into bite-sized amounts. Roll each portion into a ball with your hands and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate. You should get about 20-25 balls depending on the size.
3. **Chill the Peanut Butter Balls**: Place the tray of rolled peanut butter balls into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
4. **Prepare the Chocolate Coating**: In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (or vegetable oil) together, stirring until smooth and shiny.
5. **Coat the Balls**: Dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Use a fork to lift the ball out of the chocolate, tapping off excess before placing it back onto the parchment paper. If desired, roll the balls in crushed nuts, coconut, or additional toppings while the chocolate is still soft.
6. **Let the Chocolate Set**: Refrigerate the coated peanut butter balls for an additional 30 minutes or until the chocolate has hardened.
7. **Serve and Enjoy**: Once set, enjoy your homemade no-bake peanut butter balls! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
