Annette’s Peanut Butter Balls

🥜🍫 Annette’s Peanut Butter Balls 🥜🍫

What is it?
Annette’s Peanut Butter Balls are delicious bite-sized treats made with a combination of peanut butter and chocolate. These delightful treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and are often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions.

History:
The exact origin of Peanut Butter Balls is unclear, but they have become a popular homemade candy in many households, especially in the United States. They are often made as a festive treat during Christmas and other holidays. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate has been a beloved flavor pairing for decades, and these treats are a testament to that enduring appeal.

Components:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate coating)

Steps to Prepare:

1. Mixing the Peanut Butter Filling:

   • In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, and vanilla extract.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until a dough-like consistency forms. You may need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar slightly to achieve the right texture.

2. Forming the Balls:

   • With clean hands, take small portions of the peanut butter mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This recipe should yield about 36 peanut butter balls.

3. Preparing the Chocolate Coating:

   • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until the chocolate is smooth. If desired, add vegetable shortening to the melted chocolate to make it smoother and easier to work with.

4. Coating the Peanut Butter Balls:

   • Using a fork or a toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off.

5. Setting and Decorating:

   • Place the chocolate-coated peanut butter balls back onto the parchment paper-lined baking sheet. You can add decorative toppings like sprinkles or chopped nuts while the chocolate is still wet.

6. Chilling:

   • Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and let the Peanut Butter Balls chill for about 30 minutes to allow the chocolate coating to set.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Once the chocolate is firm, your Peanut Butter Balls are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them at room temperature and watch them disappear.

Time Needed to Prepare:

• Preparation time: Approximately 30 minutes
• Chilling time: Approximately 30 minutes

🕒 Total time: About 1 hour 🕒

These Peanut Butter Balls are a delightful treat that combines the rich creaminess of peanut butter with the sweetness of chocolate, making them a favorite among both kids and adults. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious treats with your loved ones! 😋🍬🍫

Certainly, here is the nutrition information and some health considerations for Annette’s Peanut Butter Balls:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for One Peanut Butter Ball):

• Calories: 100-120 kcal
• Total Fat: 6-8 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 2-4 grams
• Carbohydrates: 10-12 grams
  • Sugars: 8-10 grams
• Protein: 2-3 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Sodium: 30-40 milligrams

Health Information:

1. Calorie Content: Annette’s Peanut Butter Balls are relatively calorie-dense due to the combination of peanut butter, powdered sugar, and chocolate coating. Enjoy them in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.

2. Fats: Peanut butter contains healthy monounsaturated fats, but these treats also have saturated fats from the chocolate and butter. While moderate consumption is fine, individuals with heart health concerns should be mindful of their intake.

3. Protein: These treats provide a small amount of protein, which can help keep you feeling satisfied.

4. Carbohydrates and Sugar: Peanut Butter Balls are sweetened with powdered sugar and chocolate, so they have a moderate amount of carbohydrates and sugars. People with diabetes should be cautious about their consumption.

5. Fiber: The fiber content is relatively low, so these treats are not a significant source of dietary fiber.

6. Sodium: The sodium content is relatively low, which is generally good for overall health.

7. Portion Control: Since these treats are calorie-dense and can be high in sugars and fats, it’s advisable to consume them in moderation, especially if you have dietary restrictions or health concerns.

8. Allergies: Peanut butter is a common ingredient in this recipe, so be cautious if you or anyone you’re serving has a peanut allergy. You can consider using alternative nut or seed butter options if needed.

9. Balanced Diet: While Peanut Butter Balls are a tasty indulgence, they should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-dense foods.

10. Hydration: Enjoy these treats with a glass of water to help with digestion and to prevent excessive sugar cravings afterward.

Remember that the specific nutritional content may vary based on the exact ingredients used and the size of the Peanut Butter Balls you make. It’s essential to enjoy these treats in moderation and consider your overall dietary needs and health goals.