These easy no-bake peanut butter balls are a delicious and quick treat. They’re perfect for a snack, dessert, or even a homemade gift.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick)
- Optional coatings:
- Chocolate chips (melted)
- Shredded coconut
- Sprinkles
- Cocoa powder
- Powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth and evenly combined.
- Add Oats: Stir in the rolled oats until they are fully incorporated into the peanut butter mixture.
- Chill (Optional but Recommended): For easier handling, cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. This will firm up the mixture, making it easier to roll into balls.
- Form the Balls: Once chilled (or immediately if you skipped the chill step), use a spoon or small cookie scoop to portion out the mixture. Roll each portion into a 1-inch ball using your hands.
- Coat (Optional): If desired, roll the peanut butter balls in your chosen coating.
- For melted chocolate, melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave, then dip or drizzle the balls.
- For coatings like coconut, cocoa powder, powdered sugar or sprinkles, place the coating in a shallow bowl and roll the balls until evenly coated.
- Set: Place the coated or uncoated peanut butter balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If coated in chocolate, place the tray into the refrigerator to set the chocolate.
- Serve or Store: Once set, serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.