Christmas Peanut Butter Balls

Christmas Peanut Butter Balls—

Christmas Peanut Butter Balls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 2 cups crushed graham crackers (or crushed vanilla wafers)

• 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate)

• 1 tablespoon shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate coating)

• Sprinkles or crushed candy canes for decoration (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mix the filling:
   In a large bowl, combine peanut butter and softened butter until smooth.
   Gradually add powdered sugar and crushed graham crackers. Mix until well combined and you get a firm dough.

2. Shape the balls:
   Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
   Chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes or until firm.

3. Melt the chocolate:
   In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and shortening in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. (Shortening helps the chocolate coat more easily but is optional.)

4. Coat the balls:
   Using a fork or toothpick, dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Place back on parchment paper.

5. Decorate:
   While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with festive sprinkles or crushed candy canes if desired.

6. Chill:
   Refrigerate until chocolate is set, about 1 hour.