Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites Recipe – Easy No-Bake Treat in 5-Minute


👋 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!

Fresh ingredients for chocolate peanut butter bites including peanut butter, powdered sugar, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and optional toppings like sea salt and sprinkles
All the simple, pantry-friendly ingredients you’ll need to make these easy chocolate peanut butter bites

🧑‍🍳 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!

Step-by-step preparation of chocolate peanut butter bites with hands rolling dough balls on parchment paper

🧊 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.


Finished chocolate peanut butter bites beautifully plated with sea salt and sprinkles on a white tray
Your chocolate peanut butter bites — ready to eat, gift, or impress with

🎉 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
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Finished chocolate peanut butter bites beautifully plated with sea salt and sprinkles on a white tray

5-Minute No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Helen Lois
  • 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

Scale

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

  1. Make the dough: Mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla and salt until smooth.

  2. Chill: Refrigerate dough 15 minutes for easier handling.

  3. Shape: Roll into 1-inch balls (about 1 tbsp each).

  4. Melt chocolate: Microwave in 30-second intervals or use double boiler.

  5. Dip: Using a fork, coat each ball in chocolate, letting excess drip off.

  6. Decorate: Add toppings while wet.

  7. 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

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star