Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Truffles
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly balances the rich flavor of peanut butter with the sweetness of chocolate and the crunch of candy, Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Truffles are the answer. These truffles are not only easy to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Picture it: creamy peanut butter mixed with a hint of vanilla, rolled into bite-sized balls, and dipped in luscious chocolate. Each truffle is then lovingly adorned with mini Reese’s Pieces for that extra bit of sweetness and color. Perfect for parties, gifts, or just a little indulgence for yourself, these truffles will quickly become your go-to recipe.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
These Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Truffles are an absolute must in your recipe arsenal for several reasons. They require minimal ingredients and can be whipped up in under an hour. The combination of creamy peanut butter and chocolate is irresistible, making them a favorite among both kids and adults. Not to mention, they are incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding different types of chocolate or using various mix-ins. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet snack, these truffles deliver every time.
What Goes In
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar: This is the sweet base that holds everything together.
- 15 oz jar of unsweetened creamy peanut butter: The star of the show, providing that rich, nutty flavor.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, very soft: Adds creaminess and helps in binding the mixture.
- 1 teaspoon all-natural vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile with a hint of sweetness.
- 3 tablespoons milk: Helps to achieve the right consistency for the truffle mix.
- 3 cups bittersweet chocolate chips: For the decadent coating that elevates these truffles.
- 1 tablespoon canola oil: Used to thin the chocolate for easier dipping.
- 1/3 cup plus 3 tablespoons mini Reese’s Pieces, divided: For that colorful crunch and a nod to the classic candy.
Gear Up: What to Grab
- Mixing bowl: For combining all the ingredients smoothly.
- Hand mixer or stand mixer: To make mixing effortless and ensure a creamy texture.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon: For portioning out the truffles evenly.
- Baking sheet: For placing the truffles as they set.
- Parchment paper: To line the baking sheet, preventing the truffles from sticking.
- Microwave-safe bowl: For melting the chocolate.
- Fork or dipping tool: To dip the truffles in chocolate without making a mess.
Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Truffles Cooking Guide
Step 1: Create the Peanut Butter Mixture
Start by gathering your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, and all-natural vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer, beat the ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add the Sugar
Gradually add in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. The mixture will become thick and somewhat crumbly. Don’t worry; this is exactly what you want.
Step 3: Incorporate the Milk
Pour in the milk, and continue mixing until the dough is smooth and holds together easily. If the mixture seems too dry, add a tiny bit more milk, a teaspoon at a time.
Step 4: Fold in the Mini Reese’s Pieces
Gently fold in 1/3 cup of the mini Reese’s Pieces to the dough. This adds that delightful crunch and flavor that pairs so beautifully with peanut butter.
Step 5: Form the Truffles
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the truffle mixture and roll it into balls. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once all the mixture has been rolled, place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 6: Melt the Chocolate
While the truffles are chilling, melt the bittersweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Once melted, stir in the canola oil to thin out the chocolate for easier dipping.
Step 7: Dip the Truffles
Remove the truffles from the freezer. Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off. Place them back on the parchment-lined sheet.
Step 8: Add Toppings
While the chocolate coating is still wet, sprinkle each truffle with a few of the remaining mini Reese’s Pieces. This gives them a festive look and extra crunch.
Step 9: Set and Serve
Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature, or for a quicker option, place the baking sheet back in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. Once set, your Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Truffles are ready to enjoy!
International Equivalents
- Powdered sugar: Also known as icing sugar or confectioners’ sugar.
- Unsweetened creamy peanut butter: Can be substituted with smooth peanut butter if desired.
- Bittersweet chocolate chips: May be replaced with semi-sweet chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor.
- Canola oil: Substitutable with vegetable oil or coconut oil for melting chocolate.
Chef’s Rationale
The beauty of Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Truffles lies in their simplicity. Using just a handful of ingredients, you can create a treat that feels indulgent yet is easy to prepare. The balance of flavors—from the nutty, rich peanut butter to the sweet, creamy chocolate—ensures that each bite is satisfying. Additionally, incorporating mini Reese’s Pieces not only adds an element of fun but also enhances the overall texture and presentation.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
If you happen to have any truffles left over (though we doubt it!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the truffles in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for about three months. To enjoy, simply remove from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before indulging.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use natural peanut butter instead?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but be aware that it may alter the texture slightly. Natural peanut butter tends to be runnier, so you might need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar or add a little more milk to achieve the right consistency.
What if I don’t have mini Reese’s Pieces?
If you can’t find mini Reese’s Pieces, feel free to substitute with other candies like crushed pretzels, chopped nuts, or even other types of chocolate candies for a similar crunch and added flavor.
Can I make these truffles vegan?
Absolutely! To make your Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Truffles vegan, substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative, and use dairy-free chocolate chips. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly!
How do I make these truffles more festive?
You can easily make these truffles more festive by adding colored sprinkles on top along with the mini Reese’s Pieces. You could also drizzle white chocolate over the dark chocolate coating for a beautiful presentation.
In Closing
These Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Truffles are not just a treat; they’re an experience. From the moment you combine the ingredients to the delight of indulging in the finished product, they offer a little bit of joy in every bite. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to these delectable truffles. They’re perfect for sharing, gifting, or savoring all on your own. Enjoy!
Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Truffles
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Create the Peanut Butter Mixture - In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, and all-natural vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer, beat the ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
- Step 2: Add the Sugar - Gradually add in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. The mixture will become thick and somewhat crumbly.
- Step 3: Incorporate the Milk - Pour in the milk, and continue mixing until the dough is smooth and holds together easily.
- Step 4: Fold in the Mini Reese's Pieces - Gently fold in 1/3 cup of the mini Reese's Pieces to the dough.
- Step 5: Form the Truffles - Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the truffle mixture and roll it into balls. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for about 30 minutes.
- Step 6: Melt the Chocolate - Melt the bittersweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the canola oil once melted.
- Step 7: Dip the Truffles - Dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off.
- Step 8: Add Toppings - Sprinkle each truffle with the remaining mini Reese's Pieces.
- Step 9: Set and Serve - Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.
Notes
- Store leftover truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- For longer storage, freeze in a single layer and transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
- Use dairy-free chocolate to make these truffles vegan-friendly.
