Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies Recipe
Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies are the kind of treat that just makes everyone swoon with delight. Imagine biting into a perfectly creamy, sweet-salty peanut butter center, all wrapped in a thick, decadent coating of chocolate that melts in your mouth. With no baking required, these bite-sized homemade candies are as simple as they are scrumptious, making them the ultimate crowd-pleaser for parties, holidays, or just an afternoon indulgence. Whether you’re new to candy-making or a seasoned sweet-tooth, you’re about to fall in love with this irresistible combination.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of pantry staples to whip up Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies, but each plays a starring role in taste and texture. From smooth, nutty peanut butter to rich chocolate chips, every ingredient brings its own magic to these bite-sized confections.
- Creamy peanut butter: Gives the centers their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture and nutty flavor; use a good-quality, shelf-stable peanut butter for best results.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and helps bind the candy mixture for a soft, creamy bite.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and brings depth of flavor to the peanut butter filling.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the filling, making it easy to roll into perfect little balls without being too sticky.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Offer that ideal balance of sweetness and cocoa flavor for the candy coating.
- Coconut oil or shortening (optional): Makes the melted chocolate extra smooth and glossy, which helps give your candies a beautiful finish and an easy dipping experience.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies
Step 1: Mix the Peanut Butter Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Beat everything together until the mixture looks silky, smooth, and fully blended. There’s something pretty satisfying about this first step—the aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water.
Step 2: Add the Powdered Sugar
Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, a little at a time. You’ll notice the mixture turning from glossy and soft to a firm, doughy texture. This step is where magic happens! The “dough” should pull away from the sides of the bowl and become easy to roll.
Step 3: Shape Into Balls
Take small scoops of the dough (about one tablespoon each) and roll them between your palms to form even 1-inch balls. Line them up on a parchment-lined baking sheet with enough space so they don’t stick together. Once you’ve shaped all your peanut butter balls, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes. This quick chill makes dipping a breeze and helps keep their shape.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
While the peanut butter centers are chilling, add your semi-sweet chocolate chips and the optional coconut oil or shortening to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring well each time, until the chocolate is fully melted and lusciously smooth. Don’t rush—gentle melting is key to a glossy, even finish!
Step 5: Dip and Finish
Using a fork or a candy dipping tool, plunge each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, gently turning to coat all sides. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing each one back onto the parchment-lined sheet. Once all the candies are dipped and looking gorgeous, pop them back in the fridge for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set.
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies
Garnishes
Dress up your Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies with a light dusting of flaky sea salt, a sprinkle of crushed peanuts, or a drizzle of white chocolate for an extra snazzy look. Not only do these simple garnishes add flavor and crunch, but they also make your candies look distinctly homemade and special—a hallmark of a thoughtful treat.
Side Dishes
For a dessert platter, pair these candies with a bowl of fresh berries, a crisp fruit salad, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The sweet, creamy chocolate-peanut butter combo is richer when balanced with something light or slightly tart, making every bite a little celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies in mini cupcake liners or on a cake stand for instant elegance at parties. Around the holidays, tuck them into festive gift boxes or mason jars lined with tissue paper for a heartfelt, handmade present. For a playful touch, skewer them on toothpicks and create a “candy bouquet” that’s sure to wow guests (and sweethearts!).
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll keep fresh and delicious for up to two weeks. The fridge helps the chocolate stay firm and keeps the peanut butter centers creamy while avoiding melting or stickiness—perfect for snacking anytime!
Freezing
If you want to keep your Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies even longer, just freeze them! Arrange the candies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay tasty for up to three months—simply thaw in the fridge when you’re ready for a treat.
Reheating
No reheating is needed, but if your candies have been frozen and are too firm for your liking, just let them sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before enjoying. This brings back their creamy, dreamy texture without melting the chocolate.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter adds fun texture and a bit of extra nuttiness to your Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies. If you love a little crunch, give it a whirl.
What’s the best way to melt the chocolate?
The microwave method is super convenient: heat in 30-second intervals and stir in between. If you prefer, you can also use a double boiler on the stovetop for more temperature control and ultra-smooth results.
Can I make these candies vegan?
Definitely—just use plant-based butter, dairy-free chocolate chips, and a vegan-friendly peanut butter. Double-check your powdered sugar to ensure it’s vegan as well, and you’ll have a vegan-friendly batch of Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies.
How do I get a perfectly smooth chocolate coating?
Adding a bit of coconut oil or shortening when melting your chocolate helps create a glossy, even coating. Also, make sure your peanut butter balls are thoroughly chilled before dipping—they’ll hold their shape and the chocolate will set more quickly.
Can kids help make these candies?
Absolutely! Kids love rolling the peanut butter balls and dipping them in chocolate. Just be sure to handle the hot, melted chocolate yourself if they’re younger, but otherwise, this is a fantastic recipe for little hands.
Final Thoughts
If homemade candy sounds fussy, Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies will change your mind for good. They’re quick, fun, and wildly delicious—every batch brings smiles, whether you’re sharing with friends, family, or just treating yourself. Pull out your mixing bowl and see just how irresistible these easy sweets can be!
Print
Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 30 candies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delectable Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies that are rich, creamy, and irresistibly sweet. A perfect blend of peanut butter and chocolate in every bite!
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Chocolate Coating:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Peanut Butter Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mix until dough-like.
- Shape and Chill: Roll mixture into 1-inch balls, place on parchment-lined sheet. Chill for 30 minutes until firm.
- Melt Chocolate: In microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals until smooth.
- Dip and Coat: Dip peanut butter balls in chocolate, let excess drip off. Place on sheet.
- Chill and Serve: Chill until chocolate sets, about 15–20 minutes.
Notes
- Store candies in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
- Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture if desired.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (melting chocolate)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 candy
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
