Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening
Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until well combined.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Chill the peanut butter balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and vegetable shortening together until smooth.
6. Using a fork, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate mixture, making sure it is fully coated.
7. Place the chocolate-covered peanut butter balls back on the baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened.
8. Serve and enjoy!
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Temperature:
Refrigerator temperature
Serving size:
Makes approximately 24 peanut butter balls
Nutritional information:
Calories: 200
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 90mg
Total Carbohydrates: 23g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Creamy almond butter can be substituted for the peanut butter.
- Margarine can be substituted for the unsalted butter.
- Milk chocolate chips can be substituted for the semisweet chocolate chips.
Variations:
- Roll the peanut butter balls in chopped nuts or sprinkles before dipping them in chocolate.
- Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the peanut butter mixture for a chocolatey twist.
- Use white chocolate or dark chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the peanut butter mixture is well chilled before dipping it in chocolate to prevent it from falling apart.
- If the chocolate mixture becomes too thick, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil to thin it out.
- Store the chocolate-covered peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Storage instructions:
Store the chocolate-covered peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Reheating instructions:
Not applicable.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the chocolate-covered peanut butter balls on a platter and sprinkle with chopped nuts or cocoa powder.
Garnishes:
Chopped nuts, sprinkles, or cocoa powder.
Pairings:
Milk or hot cocoa.
Suggested side dishes:
Not applicable.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the peanut butter mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to moisten it.
- If the chocolate mixture becomes too thick, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all equipment thoroughly before preparing the recipe. Store the chocolate-covered peanut butter balls in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Food history:
Peanut butter balls have been a popular treat in the United States since the early 20th century. They are often served during the holiday season and are a favorite among children and adults alike.
Flavor profiles:
Sweet, nutty, and chocolatey.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the chocolate-covered peanut butter balls as a dessert or snack.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Nutty, Chocolatey