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3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls are a fast, no-bake dessert that anyone can make. With just peanut butter, butter, and powdered sugar, you’ll create sweet, creamy treats in under 15 minutes. These soft bites are perfect for snack trays, gifting, or late-night cravings. They are easy, adaptable, and freezer-friendly.
This article walks you through the step-by-step recipe, flavor upgrades, storage options, and serving suggestions. You will also find an easy ingredient swap table and tips for making them in advance. Let’s make this your go-to no-bake dessert.
The Magic Behind These 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls
Why This Recipe Works with Just Three Ingredients
This recipe uses creamy peanut butter and softened butter for a smooth base. Powdered sugar brings structure and sweetness. You don’t need to pre-chill the dough or use a mixer. Everything comes together in one bowl with minimal cleanup.
If you want a richer flavor, you can add vanilla extract. These peanut butter balls are firm enough to hold shape but still soft when you bite into them. For variety on dessert boards, they go well with cranberry white chocolate cookies for a chewy and tangy contrast.
Easy to Customize and Fun to Serve
These peanut butter balls can be shaped, dipped, or rolled in toppings. Try dipping them in dark chocolate, rolling in chopped nuts, or adding a sprinkle of salt. They hold up well at room temperature for a few hours, making them ideal for events or lunchboxes.
To make them festive, pair with holiday treats like Christmas bread. You can also form them into mini pops by inserting small sticks before chilling.
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3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 24 balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls are creamy, sweet, and made in just minutes. Perfect for a quick no-bake dessert, lunchbox snack, or holiday gift tray.
Ingredients
1 cup creamy peanut butter
½ cup butter, softened (salted or unsalted)
2 ¼ cups powdered sugar
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)
Melted chocolate for dipping or drizzling (optional)
Instructions
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, use a handheld mixer to cream the peanut butter and butter until smooth.
3. Add powdered sugar and vanilla (if using). Beat until fully combined, scraping down sides as needed.
4. Roll mixture into tablespoon-sized balls and place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes before serving or dipping in chocolate.
Notes
To freeze, place the balls on a baking sheet for 30 minutes, then store in a container for up to 2 months.
You can roll in crushed nuts, sprinkles, or drizzle with dark chocolate for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 125
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 8mg
Creative Twists on 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls
Flavor Variations to Keep It Interesting
You can create new flavors using ingredients you already have. A few simple changes turn this classic into something special:
- Stir in mini chocolate chips
- Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder
- Use almond or cashew butter
- Add shredded coconut or crushed cereal
- Mix in cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor
To round out a cookie box or dessert tray, serve alongside peach cobbler cookies for a buttery bite with spice notes.
Ingredient Swaps and Texture Tips
Not everyone has the exact ingredients on hand, and that’s fine. This recipe adapts well to swaps. Here’s a guide to make adjustments easily.
| Ingredient | Swap Option | Texture Result |
|---|---|---|
| Peanut Butter | Almond Butter | Softer and nutty |
| Butter | Coconut Oil (solid) | Moist and smooth |
| Powdered Sugar | Add more to firm up | Thicker and drier texture |
If the mixture feels sticky, chill for 10 minutes. If too dry, stir in a splash of milk. These pair nicely with a chilled drink like banana mango smoothie to balance the richness.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips for 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls
How to Store and Keep Them Fresh
Store peanut butter balls in a sealed container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to 7 days. Place wax paper between layers if dipped in chocolate to prevent sticking.
These treats hold their shape at room temperature for a couple of hours. They’re ideal for parties, snack platters, or a quick grab from the fridge. Combine them with peanut butter cookies for a complete peanut butter platter.
Freezing and Gifting Made Easy
To freeze, arrange the balls on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm. Transfer to a bag or container and store for up to 2 months. They thaw quickly at room temperature or in the fridge.
Add them to gift tins with other holiday favorites like crockpot Christmas crack or Italian lemon cookies. For presentation, wrap them in mini parchment cups or clear bags with ribbon.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, as long as it is not overly oily. Stir it well before measuring. You may need extra powdered sugar to hold the shape.
How long do they last in the fridge?
Store in a sealed container for up to one week. If chocolate-coated, add wax paper between layers.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes. Replace butter with plant-based butter or solid coconut oil. The flavor will change slightly, but the result stays creamy.
Do I have to chill before serving?
Yes. Chilling helps the balls firm up and improves the texture. Refrigerate at least 20 minutes before serving or dipping in chocolate.
Final Thoughts and Serving Suggestions
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls are easy to prepare, fun to eat, and full of sweet, nutty flavor. You don’t need an oven, mixer, or advanced skills to get great results. Just mix, roll, chill, and enjoy.
These are great on their own, or as part of a snack board. You can pair them with fruity smoothies, baked cookies, or even salty snacks for contrast. They also fit beautifully into holiday gift boxes or weeknight dessert trays.
That looks delicious 😋