Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs

Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs

There’s something undeniably magical about the holiday season, and for me, that magic often comes in the form of Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs. I still remember the first time I made these delightful treats with my grandmother. We would spend hours in the kitchen, laughter echoing off the walls, as we mixed and rolled these little bites of joy. The rich, creamy texture of the peanut butter paired with the sweet, melted chocolate creates a flavor combination that’s simply irresistible. As the snow fell gently outside, the warmth of our kitchen filled with the aroma of baking cookies made everything feel perfect.

Every bite of these snowballs reminds me of those cherished moments. Whether you’re making them for a festive gathering or just for yourself, they bring a sense of nostalgia and joy that’s hard to replicate. Imagine the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they bite into these soft, powdery treats, their taste buds dancing with delight. These cookies are not just dessert; they’re a sweet reminder of love, laughter, and tradition.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins
Prep Time:
40 mins
Cook Time:
10 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
150 kcal
Protein:
2 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
8 g
Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Blender, Oven

The Appeal of This Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs

Perfect for Any Gathering

One of the best things about Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs is how versatile they are. Whether it’s a holiday party, a birthday celebration, or simply an afternoon treat, these cookies are always a hit. They’re easy to make and even easier to share!

Easy to Prepare

Don’t let the fancy name fool you; these cookies are incredibly simple to whip up. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create something that looks and tastes impressive. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate makes them a crowd-pleaser without the need for complicated techniques.

Great for Gift Giving

During the holiday season, there’s nothing better than gifting homemade goodies. These Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs are perfect for putting in cute tins or wrapping in festive paper. Friends and family will appreciate the personal touch, and it’s a great way to spread some holiday cheer.

Fun to Make with Kids

If you’re looking for a fun activity to do with kids, making these cookies is ideal. They will love rolling the dough into balls and coating them in powdered sugar. Plus, it’s a great way to teach them about baking and spending quality time together.

Customizable and Creative

While the classic version is fantastic, you can always get creative with the Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs. Add in some crushed nuts, sprinkle with colored sugar for a festive touch, or even incorporate different flavors of chocolate to make them your own!

Ingredients for Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs

Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs

The ingredients for Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs blend together seamlessly to create a delightful texture and flavor. The star players here are peanut butter chips and semisweet chocolate chips, which provide that rich, indulgent base. Combined with powdered sugar and finely chopped peanuts, these components create a satisfying sweet treat that’s sure to please.

  • 6 ounces peanut butter chips: These add a rich, nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the cookies.
  • 6 ounces semisweet chocolate chips: Perfect for melting, these chips create a luscious filling that oozes with chocolate goodness.
  • ¼ cup sifted powdered sugar: This gives the snowballs that signature sweetness and helps balance the flavors.
  • ¼ cup finely chopped peanuts: For a bit of crunch and added nuttiness, chopped peanuts are an excellent addition.
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour: This serves as the base for the cookie dough, providing structure and texture.
  • 1¼ cups (2½ sticks) salted butter, at room temperature: Butter adds richness and helps create a chewy texture in the cookies.
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar: Used for rolling the snowballs, giving them a beautiful finish.
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
  • Powdered sugar: Additional for rolling the finished cookies.
  • Colored sugar, optional: This can be used to add a festive touch for holiday celebrations.

Cooking Instructions for Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs

Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs

Making Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with a warm, sweet aroma. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying your delicious creations in no time!

  1. Combine the peanut butter chips and semisweet chocolate chips in a double boiler. Heat gently until the mixture becomes smooth and cohesive. If you prefer, you can use a microwave-safe glass bowl to melt the chips in the microwave. Make sure to stir every 30 seconds until fully melted.
  2. Once melted, remove from heat and add the powdered sugar and finely chopped peanuts. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure everything is well combined. Let it sit at room temperature until it firms up enough to handle easily, about 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. While waiting, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This ensures it’s hot when you’re ready to bake.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, butter, the remaining powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Knead the ingredients together until everything is blended well. If the dough appears too dry, add milk a teaspoon at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
  5. Shape the dough into a log measuring about 11 inches in length. Cut the log into ¼-inch slices. Each slice will be used to wrap around the chocolate-peanut butter filling.
  6. Take one slice of the dough and place it in your hand. Use your fingers to gently spread it out into a thin circle.
  7. Place a chocolate-peanut butter ball in the center of the dough circle. Wrap the dough around the filling, sealing it carefully, and then roll the ball between your hands until smooth.
  8. Roll the formed balls in powdered sugar, making sure they are fully coated. If you’re using colored sugar, this is the time to sprinkle it on for a festive look.
  9. Arrange the snowballs on a cookie sheet; no greasing is necessary. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes. Watch for a slight golden edge.
  10. Once baking is complete, allow the cookies to cool slightly on the sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack. While they are still warm, roll them in more powdered sugar for an extra sweet finish.

Things Worth Knowing

  • Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 to 30 minutes before rolling.
  • Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, although they rarely last that long!
  • Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding different toppings or fillings like crushed candy canes for a minty twist.
  • Serving Suggestions: These cookies pair well with a glass of milk, hot cocoa, or even coffee.

Recipe Variations about Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs

Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs

There are countless ways to make the classic Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs your own. Here are a few ideas to elevate your cookie-baking game:

  • Add crushed nuts: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
  • Use different chocolate types: Experiment with dark chocolate or milk chocolate for variations in sweetness.
  • Incorporate spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and a unique flavor profile.
  • Make them gluten-free: Substitute with gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
  • Sprinkle with sea salt: For an elevated taste, sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on top before serving.
  • Decorate with drizzled chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the snowballs for a decorative touch.
  • Try different shapes: Instead of balls, shape the dough into logs or squares for a different presentation.

Great Combinations for Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs

When it comes to serving your Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs, there are a multitude of delightful options that can complement your cookies:

  • Pair with milk: The classic combination of cookies and milk is always a crowd-pleaser.
  • Perfect for holiday trays: Arrange these cookies on a festive platter alongside other seasonal treats for a delightful dessert table.
  • Ideal for gift-giving: Package them in decorative tins or boxes for a charming homemade gift.
  • Great for parties: Serve these cookies at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or potlucks to easily impress your guests.
  • Enjoy with coffee: These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or tea, making them an excellent afternoon snack.
  • Consider dipping: A quick dip in melted chocolate or a sprinkle of colored sugar can enhance their festive appeal.

FAQ

Absolutely! Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs can be made ahead of time. In fact, they taste even better after a day or two as the flavors meld together. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you’re planning a party or get-together, you can bake these a few days in advance, making your life a little easier on the day of the event.

To keep your Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long! You can also freeze any leftovers. Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature.

While natural peanut butter can be used, it may change the texture of your Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs. Natural peanut butter tends to be runnier and less sweet than traditional peanut butter chips. If you decide to use it, consider adding a bit more powdered sugar to balance the flavors. The key is to achieve a good consistency for rolling and shaping the cookies.

No, using colored sugar is completely optional. It’s a fun way to add a festive touch to your Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs, especially during the holidays. If you prefer a classic look, simply stick with powdered sugar. Either way, they will taste delicious!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs are a delightful treat that brings joy and nostalgia. Their creamy peanut butter center wrapped in a soft cookie is hard to resist. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and create some sweet memories in your kitchen. Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy family night, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs

Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs

The ultimate chocolate treat! These Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs are soft, creamy, and perfectly sweet. With every bite, you experience a delightful mix of peanut butter and chocolate that will leave you craving more. Perfect for any occasion, make these today and bring joy to your dessert table!
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Desserts
Cuisine American
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Chef's Knife
  • Large Pot
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Blender
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 6 ounces peanut butter chips
  • 6 ounces semisweet chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup sifted powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup finely chopped peanuts
  • 3 cups all purpose flour
  • cups salted butter
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • powdered sugar
  • colored sugar optional

Instructions
 

  • Combine the peanut butter chips and semisweet chocolate chips in a double boiler. Heat until smooth. Remove from heat and add the powdered sugar and finely chopped peanuts. Stir well. Let sit until firm enough to shape.
  • Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
  • In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Knead until well blended. If too dry, add milk as needed.
  • Shape the dough into an 11-inch log; cut into ¼-inch slices.
  • Spread a slice in your hands into a thin circle.
  • Place a chocolate-peanut butter ball in the center of the slice, wrap the dough around it, seal, and roll into a ball.
  • Roll the ball in powdered sugar and place on an un-greased cookie sheet.
  • Bake for 10 minutes, cool slightly, and roll in powdered sugar again while warm.

Notes

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
  • Freezing: These cookies freeze well; just layer them between parchment paper.
  • Pairing: Serve with milk or hot chocolate for a delightful treat.
  • Experiment: Try adding different flavors or toppings to customize your snowballs.
  • Celebrate: These cookies are perfect for holiday parties and gatherings!
Keyword Chocolate Peanut Butter Snowballs, Dessert Recipes, Holiday Cookies, Peanut Butter Cookies

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