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👋 Introduction: Your New Favorite 5-Minute Treat
Craving a sweet treat that takes zero effort but tastes like it came from a fancy bakery? Enter: Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites. These little guys are the snack time MVPs — no oven needed, no stress involved, and seriously addictive.
I first made these during a holiday rush when I needed something fast for a cookie swap. Spoiler alert: they were gone before I could even say “holiday spirit.” They remind me of my grandma’s candy jars — only way easier to make and way less likely to burn in the microwave 😉
Whether you’re hosting a party, prepping snacks for the week, or just want something sweet without turning on the oven, this is your go-to recipe.
Let’s roll up our sleeves and get into why you’re going to love these bites — and how to make them perfectly every single time.
💖 Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites
Here’s the deal — life’s busy enough. The last thing you need is another complicated dessert recipe. That’s where these bites come in clutch:
- ✅ No-bake = minimal effort (and zero chance of burning anything)
- ✅ Enjoy the ideal mix of creamy peanut butter and decadent chocolate
- ✅ Totally customizable (we’ll get into swaps in a bit)
- ✅ Great for gifting, holidays, or just plain old snacking
They’re like Reese’s Cups’ cooler, homemade cousin — except you control what goes inside. Mic drop. 🎤
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Alright, let’s talk ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need — and don’t worry, everything’s easy to find and totally pantry-friendly.
Peanut Butter Base:
- You’ll need 1 cup of creamy peanut butter (Jif or Skippy are my favorites).
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt (optional, but recommended)
Chocolate Coating:
- Use 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate bar for extra shine)
- 1 tsp vegetable shortening (like Crisco) – optional, but makes the chocolate smoother
Optional Mix-Ins/Top-Offs:
- Sea salt flakes
- Sprinkles
- Crushed peanuts or almonds
- Mini marshmallows
- Rice Krispies (for texture!)
💡 Pro Tip: Use a high-quality chocolate bar instead of chips if you want that melt-in-your-mouth feel. It makes a world of difference!

🧑🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Now for the fun part — making them! This is literally so simple, even your dog could probably help (assuming your dog doesn’t eat the spoon).
🔨 Prep Work
Start by covering your baking sheet with a sheet of parchment paper—this will make cleanup a breeze. Grab a mixing bowl, a fork or dipping tool, and maybe a spatula.
Set everything out so you don’t have to stop mid-roll to find a spoon. We’ve all been there.
🥣 Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine:
- Peanut butter
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Mix until smooth and fully combined. Yep, that’s it.If the mixture feels too dry, stir in a small splash of milk or water. If it’s too sticky, toss in a bit more powdered sugar.
Once it’s good to go, pop the dough in the fridge for 15–30 minutes to firm up a bit. It really makes rolling much smoother and easier.
🎳 Shape the Balls
Take about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball — roughly 1 inch in size. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; imperfection is charming, right?
Place each ball on your prepared tray. If the dough starts to get soft again, just stick the whole tray back in the fridge for a few minutes.
🍫 Dip in Chocolate
Now comes the magical part.
Melt your chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate) using either:
- For melting, use the microwave: heat for 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between.
- Double boiler : Gentle heat, constant stirring.
Add a bit of shortening for a glossy finish that hardens evenly.
Gently coat each ball in chocolate, then lift it with a fork or toothpick, allowing the excess to cascade off in glossy ribbons. Place them back on the tray.
Mixing and rolling the peanut butter dough — the first step to snack-time heaven!

🧊 Set and Decorate
While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with sea salt, sprinkles, crushed nuts — whatever floats your boat.
Place the tray in the fridge for 20–30 minutes until firm. Then… voilà! You’ve got yourself some serious snack magic.
🔄 Recipe Variations & Substitutions
Want to tweak things up? Here are some easy ways to customize without messing with the base recipe:
- Nut-Free Option: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter (SunButter is awesome).
- Low-Carb/Keto: Use erythritol instead of powdered sugar and keto-friendly chocolate chips.
- Vegan-Friendly: Choose vegan chocolate (Lindt 70% is vegan!) and use coconut oil instead of butter-based shortening.
- Texture Hack: Fold in a few tablespoons of Rice Krispies or shredded coconut for a surprise crunch.
Want to impress your friends? Call them “truffles.” Works every time 😉.
📦 Storage & Freezing Tips
So, you made a big batch and now you’ve got leftovers? Lucky you.
- For maximum freshness, tuck them into an airtight container and store at room temperature—they’ll keep their delicious texture for nearly a week.
- Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for 1–2 weeks (they actually taste better chilled!).
- Freezer: Yes! If you want to keep them for longer, they can be frozen in a tightly sealed container for up to three months—just remember to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Bonus hack: If you freeze them, they’re the perfect midnight snack straight from the freezer. Cold, chewy, and dreamy.
❓ FAQs About Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites
Still got questions? I’ve got answers.
Q: What’s the best peanut butter to use?
A: Creamy Jif or Skippy works best. Natural peanut butter can be runny, so only use it if you adjust the ratios.
Q: Can I skip the chocolate coating?
A: Totally! Roll them in cocoa powder or shredded coconut for a lighter version.
Q: Are these kid-friendly?
A: Absolutely. Kids love helping roll the balls — and sneaking a few tastes along the way 😄.
🎁 Serving Suggestions
These little delights adapt to any occasion:
- Holiday gift boxes: Wrap them in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a sweet DIY present.
- Coffee break companion: Pair with a mug of hot cocoa or latte for the ultimate cozy combo.
- Cookie platter addition: Add to your holiday spread for extra variety.
- Bakery look: Drizzle extra melted chocolate over the top for that fancy finish.
Pro move: Label them “Homemade Truffles” and watch people act impressed.

🎉 Final Thoughts
There you have it — your new go-to recipe for Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites! Whether you’re whipping these up for a party, a quick snack fix, or holiday gifting, they’re sure to be a hit.
Quick Recap:
- Super easy, no-bake recipe
- Only a handful of ingredients
- Totally customizable
- Stores like a champ
Ready to make magic happen? Grab those ingredients and get rolling — you won’t regret it! 🚀
Did you give this recipe a whirl? Share your thoughts in the comments or show off your creation by tagging me. I’d love to see your creations!
Print
5-Minute No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites
- Total Time: 25 mins (includes chilling)
- Yield: 24 bites 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The easiest homemade candy you’ll ever make – creamy peanut butter centers dipped in rich chocolate, ready in minutes with no baking required. Perfect for gifting, parties, or midnight snacks!
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Filling:
-
1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural style)
-
1 cup powdered sugar
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
Pinch of salt
Chocolate Coating:
-
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
-
1 tsp vegetable shortening (optional, for shine)
Optional Toppings:
-
Sea salt flakes
-
Sprinkles
-
Crushed nuts
Instructions
-
Make the dough: Mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla and salt until smooth.
-
Chill: Refrigerate dough 15 minutes for easier handling.
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Shape: Roll into 1-inch balls (about 1 tbsp each).
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Melt chocolate: Microwave in 30-second intervals or use double boiler.
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Dip: Using a fork, coat each ball in chocolate, letting excess drip off.
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Decorate: Add toppings while wet.
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Set: Chill 20 minutes until firm.
Notes
Storage:
-
Room temp: 5 days in airtight container
-
Fridge: 2 weeks
-
Freezer: 3 months (layer with parchment)
Variations:
-
Nut-free: Use sunflower seed butter
-
Keto: Swap powdered sugar for erythritol
-
Vegan: Use dairy-free chocolate
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American