Description
Deliciously rich and easy-to-make Caramel Peanut Balls combine sweetened condensed milk and roasted peanuts into bite-sized treats coated in smooth dipping chocolate. Perfect for parties or as a homemade gift, these no-bake confections deliver a satisfying crunch and irresistible caramel flavor.
Ingredients
Core Ingredients
- 3 cups dry roasted peanuts, finely chopped
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coating
- 8 ounces dipping chocolate
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium pan, stir together the finely chopped peanuts and sweetened condensed milk until thoroughly mixed.
- Cook Mixture: Place the pan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring frequently for 8-10 minutes. Watch for the mixture to darken and thicken; it’s ready when it forms a ball around the spoon or leaves a clear track when you stir.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the teaspoon of vanilla extract for flavor.
- Cool Mixture: Let the peanut and caramel mixture cool down for about 10 minutes to make handling easier.
- Form Balls: Using a spoon, scoop the mixture onto wax paper in sizes just under a tablespoon, or as preferred. Chill in the refrigerator for about 5 minutes.
- Shape Balls: Roll each chilled scoop between your palms to smooth and shape into balls. Return them to the fridge for another 5 minutes to firm up.
- Melt Chocolate: While balls are chilling, melt the dipping chocolate until smooth and ready for dipping.
- Dip in Chocolate: Using a toothpick, dip each peanut ball into the melted chocolate, fully coating it, then place back on the wax paper to set.
- Store: Store the caramel peanut balls at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the mixture as it can become too hard when cooled.
- Adjust the size of the balls to your preference, though just under a tablespoon-sized scoop works well for balanced sweetness.
- Dry roasted peanuts add a nice crunch; avoid salted peanuts to keep sweetness balanced.
- Use high-quality dipping chocolate for the best coating and flavor.
- These treats can be stored at room temperature but refrigerating extends their freshness and keeps the chocolate firm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
