Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition until a dough forms. The mixture should be stiff but still pliable.
2. Shape the Balls:
Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, roll the peanut butter mixture into 1-inch balls.
Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper.
Refrigerate the peanut butter balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
3. Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and shortening or coconut oil (if using). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate in a double boiler over simmering water.
4. Dip the Peanut Butter Balls:
Using a toothpick or a dipping fork, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, covering it completely. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off.
Place the dipped balls back onto the parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
5. Garnish and Set:
If desired, sprinkle the tops of the dipped peanut butter balls with crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs while the chocolate is still wet.
Refrigerate the peanut butter balls for about 1 hour, or until the chocolate is set.
6. Serve:
Once the chocolate is set, transfer the peanut butter balls to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips:
For a variation, you can use crunchy peanut butter or add rice cereal for extra texture.
If you prefer a darker chocolate flavor, you can use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet or milk chocolate.
For an added touch, you can drizzle the peanut butter balls with melted white chocolate.
Enjoy your delicious homemade chocolate-covered peanut butter balls!
