There’s something utterly delightful about No Bake Peanut Butter Snowballs. Picture a kitchen filled with the warm, nostalgic aroma of creamy peanut butter mingling with the sweet scent of powdered sugar—it’s like a big, cozy hug for your taste buds. These snowballs are soft and chewy on the inside, contrasted by the delicate layer of powdered sugar coating them, which adds a powdery sweetness that dances on your tongue. I stumbled upon this recipe on a rainy afternoon, and it instantly became a cherished favorite to share during cozy get-togethers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare: No baking means you can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for last-minute treats.
- Kid-friendly: The combination of peanut butter and sugar is always a hit with kids and adults alike!
- Customizable: You can add fun mix-ins or adjust the sweetness to your taste.
- Perfect for the holidays: These little snowballs make a festive addition to any dessert platter.
Ingredients Needed For No Bake Peanut Butter Snowballs
- 4 cups powdered sugar (divided): This adds the perfect sweetness and is crucial for that characteristic snowy appearance.
- 1 cup butter, softened (2 sticks): Use unsalted butter for better control over the flavor. Let it sit out until it softens for easy mixing.
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter: Opt for the creamy variety for a smooth texture that blends seamlessly with the other ingredients.
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: These add a delightful crunch and flavor that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.
How to Make No Bake Peanut Butter Snowballs
- In a large bowl, combine 3-1/2 cups of powdered sugar with the softened butter. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add in the peanut butter and graham cracker crumbs, carefully mixing until everything is well combined.
- Using a small cookie scoop or measuring spoon, roll the peanut butter dough into 1-inch balls. Place each ball on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Once you’ve rolled all the dough, freeze the balls for about 30 minutes to help them firm up.
- Place the remaining 1/2 cup of powdered sugar into a shallow bowl. Roll each peanut butter ball in the powdered sugar one by one, ensuring they are coated evenly.
- Place the coated balls back onto the tray.
- Store the peanut butter snowballs in the fridge in an airtight container until ready to serve. You can place a layer of wax paper between layers to keep them from sticking together.
How to Serve No Bake Peanut Butter Snowballs
Serve these delightful snowballs chilled for a refreshing treat. They shine on their own but can also be paired with a glass of milk, coffee, or a warm cup of cocoa for an indulgent experience. Arrange them on a festive platter for holiday gatherings, or bag them up as sweet gifts for friends and family.
How to Store No Bake Peanut Butter Snowballs
Keep your snowballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will maintain their texture and flavor for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, feel free to freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to separate layers with parchment paper when storing!
Tips to Make No Bake Peanut Butter Snowballs
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a little less sweetness, start with 3 cups of powdered sugar in the mixture and taste before rolling.
- Consider using crunchy peanut butter for added texture and nuts!
- If you’re pressed for time, skip the freezing step and roll immediately into powdered sugar, though chilling helps them hold their shape better.
Variations and Substitutions
- Chocolate Snowballs: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the finished snowballs for a delightful chocolate twist.
- Nutty Addition: Mix in some mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the peanut butter mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Allergy-Friendly Option: For those allergic to peanut butter, try almond or sunflower seed butter as excellent alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter for making snowballs?
Yes! Just remember that natural peanut butter tends to be a bit runnier, so you may need to adjust the amount of graham cracker crumbs slightly to achieve the right consistency.
How long do these snowballs last?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, they can last up to a week. If you freeze them, they can maintain their quality for about three months.
Can I make these snowballs vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a vegan version and ensure the powdered sugar you use is bone-char free. You can also find plant-based graham crackers to use in this recipe.
Can I roll the snowballs in something other than powdered sugar?
Definitely! Try rolling them in crushed nuts, cocoa powder, or shredded coconut for a fun twist.
How can I make the snowballs more festive?
To dress them up for the holidays, consider adding sprinkles, or drizzle with melted chocolate. A sprinkle of colored sugar can also add to the festive appearance!
These snowballs are a joyful treat that captures the essence of coziness and indulgence in every bite. Enjoy making (and sharing) them this season!
No Bake Peanut Butter Snowballs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups powdered sugar, divided Adds sweetness and characteristic appearance.
- 1 cup butter, softened (2 sticks) Use unsalted butter for better flavor control.
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter Opt for creamy for a smooth texture.
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs Adds crunch and flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine 3-1/2 cups of powdered sugar with the softened butter. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add in the peanut butter and graham cracker crumbs, carefully mixing until everything is well combined.
- Using a small cookie scoop or measuring spoon, roll the peanut butter dough into 1-inch balls. Place each ball on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Once you’ve rolled all the dough, freeze the balls for about 30 minutes to help them firm up.
- Place the remaining 1/2 cup of powdered sugar into a shallow bowl. Roll each peanut butter ball in the powdered sugar one by one, ensuring they are coated evenly.
- Place the coated balls back onto the tray.
Storage and Serving
- Store the peanut butter snowballs in the fridge in an airtight container until ready to serve.
- Serve these delightful snowballs chilled, optionally paired with milk, coffee, or warm cocoa.
