Chocolate Covered Balls
Chocolate covered balls with a rich peanut butter and pecan filling, coated in smooth chocolate, perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a sweet treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine confectioners sugar, peanut butter, vanilla extract, melted margarine, and chopped pecans in a bowl; mix well.
- Shape the mixture into small balls.
- Melt chocolate chips and paraffin wax in a double boiler until smooth.
- Dip each candy ball into the melted chocolate to coat evenly.
- Place coated balls on waxed paper to cool.
- Chill the chocolate-covered balls in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the margarine is fully melted and combine it well with the peanut butter before adding the confectioners sugar. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute half of the confectioners sugar with powdered coconut sugar. Consider using dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. If you want a different nutty flavor, try using chopped almonds instead of pecans.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate-covered balls make a delightful dessert on their own or can be served alongside a Fresh Berry Trifle for a stunning dessert spread. They also pair well with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For added flair, consider dusting them with cocoa powder or shredded coconut before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store the chocolate-covered balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. They can last for up to two weeks. If you prefer them at room temperature, let them sit out for a short time before serving, but avoid leaving them out for too long to prevent the chocolate from melting.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Covered Balls contains roughly 197 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 11g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut butter?
Absolutely! You can use almond butter or cashew butter as substitutes for peanut butter. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious. Ensure the nut butter is smooth for the best texture in the candy balls.
Is it necessary to use paraffin wax?
Paraffin wax helps to create a smoother, shinier chocolate coating and helps the chocolate set properly. However, if you prefer to avoid it, you can use additional chocolate chips to achieve a thicker coating, although it may not set as firmly.
Can I freeze these chocolate-covered balls?
Yes, you can freeze the chocolate-covered balls! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).