Easy Peanut Butter Treats (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 cup creamy peanut butter
02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
03 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
04 - 3 cups powdered sugar
05 - 2 cups chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet)
06 - 2 tbsp vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother melting)

# Instructions:

01 - In a mixing bowl, add the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
02 - Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing until a dough forms. It should be well combined and hold its shape.
03 - Roll the mixture into small balls (about 1-inch in diameter) and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
04 - Pop the baking sheet in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up the balls.
05 - While the balls are freezing, melt the chocolate chips and vegetable shortening (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
06 - Using a fork or toothpick, dip each frozen ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Return them to the parchment-lined sheet.
07 - Let the chocolate-covered balls sit at room temperature or refrigerate until the chocolate is firm. Enjoy!

# Notes:

01 - Pair your No-bake Peanut Butter Balls with a glass of cold milk or warm coffee for the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. They also complement fresh fruit like apples or bananas, making for a lovely dessert experience. For a more festive flair, consider serving them alongside brownies or ice cream for an indulgent treat.
02 - Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re looking for alternatives, feel free to swap out creamy peanut butter for crunchy, or use almond butter for a different twist. Timing Adjustments: Don’t skip the freezing step! This helps the chocolate coat better and ensures the balls hold their shape. Common Mistakes: Be careful not to overheat the chocolate; melting in shorter intervals prevents scorching.
03 - Store your No-bake Peanut Butter Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about a week, although I doubt they’ll last that long! If you’d like to enjoy them later, they can also be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to avoid sticking. To reheat, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying those chewy, creamy bites.