why make this recipe

This recipe makes small, rich peanut butter candies that taste like Reese’s. You can make them at home with few ingredients. They are fast to make and good for parties, gifts, or snacks. If you like peanut butter desserts, try this Chocolate Peanut Butter Texas Sheet Cake for a larger dessert option.

introduction

Reese’s Copycat Peanut Butter Balls are bite-size treats with a peanut butter center and a chocolate shell. They are sweet, creamy, and easy to make. You do not need special tools. Chill the mixture, form balls, and dip them in melted chocolate.

how to make Reese’s Copycat Peanut Butter Balls

Make the peanut butter filling, shape it, chill, then coat in chocolate. Work in small batches for neat, smooth candies. Be sure the filling is firm before dipping so the balls hold their shape.

Ingredients :

1 cup creamy peanut butter
3/4 cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 oz semisweet chocolate or chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vegetable oil or shortening (optional, for shine)
Pinch of salt (if using unsalted peanut butter)

Directions :

In a bowl, mix peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla, salt, and powdered sugar. Stir until smooth and thick.
Taste and add a little more powdered sugar if the mix is too soft. The mixture must hold shape.
Roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
Chill the balls in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or freeze for 10 minutes until firm.
Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth. Stir in oil or shortening if using.
Use a fork or dipping tool to drop a chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate. Coat fully, lift, and tap the fork to remove excess chocolate.
Place coated balls back on the parchment. If you want, sprinkle a few with sea salt or add a drizzle of extra chocolate.
Chill again until the chocolate sets, about 15–30 minutes. Store them in the fridge or at cool room temperature.

how to serve Reese’s Copycat Peanut Butter Balls

Serve cold or at room temperature. Arrange on a plate or in cupcake liners for a neat look. They make good party snacks, holiday treats, or gifts in a box.

how to store Reese’s Copycat Peanut Butter Balls

Keep them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

tips to make Reese’s Copycat Peanut Butter Balls

Use creamy peanut butter for smooth filling.
Chill the filling well so balls do not fall apart while dipping.
Melt chocolate slowly to avoid burning.
Add a little oil to chocolate for a shinier coating. Consider this tip if you want a richer chocolate finish and try another peanut butter treat like this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cream Pie for variety.
Work on a cool surface and keep hands clean to roll neat balls.

variation (if any)

Use chunky peanut butter for a crunchy center.
Mix a bit of cocoa powder into the filling for a chocolate-peanut center.
Substitute peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a nut-free or different nut flavor.
Dip in white chocolate and add orange or raspberry zest on top for a different taste.

FAQs

Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?
A: Yes, but natural peanut butter has more oil. Add extra powdered sugar or chill the mixture longer to make it firm.

Q: Can I make these vegan?
A: Yes. Use dairy-free butter and dairy-free chocolate. Check labels to be sure.

Q: How do I stop the chocolate from cracking?
A: Melt the chocolate gently and add a small amount of oil or shortening. Do not over-chill; room temperature after setting helps.

Q: Can I make the filling ahead?
A: Yes. Make the filling and keep it chilled in the fridge for a few days, then roll and dip when ready.

Q: Do I need a candy thermometer?
A: No. For these candies, simple melting in the microwave or a double boiler works fine.