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Holiday baking is a cherished tradition, but sometimes, you need a dessert that’s quick, easy, and still impressive. Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowballs are the ultimate no-bake treat, combining creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate chips, and a snowy powdered sugar coating. These delightful bites are perfect for holiday parties, gifting, or a cozy snack at home.
This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also versatile enough to customize for different tastes and dietary needs. Let’s explore how to make this crowd-pleasing dessert and why it deserves a place on your holiday table.
Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowballs
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowballs offer a blend of convenience, flavor, and charm. These treats are ideal for busy schedules, requiring no baking and only a few basic ingredients. They’re easy enough for beginners to make and fun for kids to help with, making them a wonderful family activity.
The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet chocolate chips is a classic that never disappoints. Rolling them in powdered sugar gives them a festive, snowy appearance that’s perfect for the holiday season. Plus, these snowballs can be adapted to suit various preferences, such as adding coconut, nuts, or spices for a personalized twist.
Ingredients For Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowballs Recipe
This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create a dessert that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
Acts as the base for the recipe, providing a rich, nutty flavor and smooth texture. - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Adds a creamy richness that binds the ingredients together. If using salted butter, omit the optional salt. - 1 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
Sweetens the mixture and creates the snowy exterior that gives these snowballs their name. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note. - 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
Adds bursts of chocolatey sweetness. Mini chips distribute more evenly throughout the mixture. - 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
Balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut butter’s flavor. - 1 cup crushed graham crackers (or digestive biscuits)
Provides texture and structure to the snowballs, making them easier to shape.
How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowballs
Prepare the Base Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and peanut butter. Use a spatula or a handheld mixer to blend them into a smooth, creamy mixture. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then mix thoroughly until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Add Texture with Mix-Ins
Fold in the crushed graham crackers and mini chocolate chips. The crackers add a pleasant crunch and help absorb some of the moisture, while the chocolate chips provide delightful pockets of sweetness. Ensure the mixture is well-blended, so every bite has a consistent flavor.
If the dough feels too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes. This step firms up the mixture and makes it easier to shape.
Shape the Snowballs
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the dough and roll it between your palms to form a smooth ball. The size can be adjusted depending on your preference, but bite-sized balls work best. Place each snowball on a tray lined with parchment paper.
Coat with Powdered Sugar
Fill a shallow bowl with powdered sugar and roll each snowball until it is completely coated. For an extra snowy appearance, you can roll them a second time. This step enhances both the look and taste of the snowballs, adding a final touch of sweetness.
Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the snowballs for at least 30 minutes to allow them to set. Once chilled, they’re ready to serve. These treats are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making them a convenient dessert option for any occasion.
Tips for Success
Chill the Dough
If the dough is too sticky to work with, don’t skip the refrigeration step. Chilling the mixture not only makes shaping easier but also helps the flavors meld together for a more cohesive taste.
Double-Coat for Extra Sweetness
For those who love a sweeter treat, consider rolling the snowballs in powdered sugar twice. The second coating adheres better after the first has absorbed some of the moisture from the dough.
Customize to Your Taste
This recipe is highly adaptable. Add shredded coconut for a tropical twist, chopped nuts for a crunchy texture, or a pinch of cinnamon for a holiday spice.
Nutritional Information
Each snowball is a small but indulgent treat. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one snowball:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 6g
These values may vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. While they are a treat, the peanut butter adds some protein and makes them more satisfying than traditional candies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chunky Peanut Butter?
Yes! Chunky peanut butter works well if you enjoy a bit of crunch in every bite. It adds an extra layer of texture to the snowballs.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, and use dairy-free chocolate chips. Ensure the graham crackers are also vegan-friendly.
Can These Be Made Gluten-Free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free graham crackers or substitute them with crushed gluten-free cereal. Double-check all other ingredients to ensure they meet gluten-free standards.
How Long Do These Snowballs Last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these snowballs can last up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them and thaw before serving.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Snowballs are a delightful no-bake dessert that combines rich, creamy, and sweet flavors with a festive touch. Perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or simply treating yourself, these snowballs are easy to make and hard to resist.
Give this recipe a try, and let the snowy magic of these sweet treats brighten your day. Don’t forget to share your creations and any unique twists you add to this versatile recipe!
