Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Donkey Balls are a playful, no-bake treat that strikes the perfect balance between sweet, salty, creamy, and crunchy. Featuring a rich peanut butter center, graham cracker crumbs, and chopped nuts, each bite delivers texture and flavor in abundance. They’re then dipped in smooth, melted chocolate for a decadent outer shell. These bite-sized indulgences are quick to make, kid-friendly, and ideal for parties, snacks, or even edible gifts. With no oven required and just a handful of pantry staples, Donkey Balls are both fun and easy for all skill levels.

Ingredients

For the Donkey Balls:
1 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup chopped nuts (peanuts, almonds, or pecans)
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
A pinch of salt (optional)

For the Chocolate Coating:
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tbsp coconut oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Peanut Butter Mixture

   • In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs, chopped nuts, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.

   • Mix until a sticky dough forms that holds together when pressed.

2. Shape the Balls

   • Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball using your hands.

   • Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

3. Chill

   • Freeze the tray of peanut butter balls for 20–30 minutes to firm them up for dipping.

4. Melt the Chocolate

   • In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips with the coconut oil.

   • Stir until smooth and glossy.

5. Dip the Balls

   • Remove the chilled balls from the freezer.

   • Dip each one into the melted chocolate using a fork or toothpick, letting the excess drip off.

   • Place back on the parchment-lined tray.

6. Set the Chocolate

   • Return the dipped balls to the freezer for another 10–15 minutes or until the chocolate hardens.

7. Serve

   • Once set, the Donkey Balls are ready to enjoy.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 balls

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Chill Time: 40 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Nut Butter Swap: Use almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter in place of peanut butter.

• Different Coatings: Try white chocolate or dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet.

• Crunch Factor: Roll the dipped balls in crushed nuts, sprinkles, or toasted coconut before the chocolate sets.

• Flavor Twist: Add a drop of almond or hazelnut extract for a unique flavor.

• Filling Boost: Mix mini chocolate chips or dried fruit into the peanut butter mixture for added texture.

• Topping Ideas: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, sesame seeds, or drizzle with extra chocolate.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

• Refrigerator: Extend freshness by keeping them in the fridge for up to 7 days.

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month. Let thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.

• Reheating: Not needed—Donkey Balls are meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make Donkey Balls ahead of time?

Yes, these treats store well and can be made up to a week in advance. Keep them in the fridge or freezer until ready to serve.

Do I have to use peanut butter?

No, you can substitute with any nut or seed butter, such as almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a peanut-free version.

Can I make these without coconut oil?

Yes, the coconut oil simply helps smooth out the chocolate. You can omit it or replace it with a small amount of neutral oil like vegetable or canola.

How do I keep the balls from sticking to my hands?

Chilling the mixture slightly before rolling helps. You can also lightly grease your hands or use gloves for easier shaping.

What’s the best chocolate to use?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips work great, but you can also use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate depending on your preference.

Can I add toppings?

Yes. Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle each ball with sesame seeds, sea salt, shredded coconut, or crushed nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Are these safe for kids?

Absolutely. Donkey Balls are made with kid-friendly ingredients and require no baking, making them perfect for children to help prepare.

Can I make a large batch?

Yes, the recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to suit parties or gift-giving needs.

Do I need a food processor or special tools?

No, this recipe is simple and requires only basic kitchen tools like mixing bowls, a spoon, and a baking sheet.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your taste. Keep in mind that the sugar helps the mixture hold its shape.

Conclusion

Donkey Balls are the ultimate no-bake treat—quick, customizable, and irresistibly delicious. With a creamy peanut butter center, crunchy nuts, and rich chocolate coating, they hit all the right notes for a sweet and salty snack. Perfect for parties, thoughtful gifts, or an afternoon pick-me-up, they’re a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Whether you’re making a batch for yourself or sharing with friends, these delightful bites will keep everyone coming back for more.

Donkey Balls

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Donkey Balls are a playful, no-bake treat with a creamy peanut butter center, crunchy nuts, and a rich chocolate coating. Quick to make and perfect for kids or parties, these bite-sized indulgences balance sweet, salty, and crunchy in every bite.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: undefined
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 12 balls
• Category: Snack/Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup chopped nuts (peanuts, almonds, or pecans)

1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Pinch of salt (optional)

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 tbsp coconut oil

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, graham cracker crumbs, chopped nuts, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until sticky dough forms.
2. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll into balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Freeze for 20–30 minutes to firm up.
4. Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in a microwave or double boiler until smooth.
5. Dip chilled balls into melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Place back on parchment-lined tray.
6. Freeze another 10–15 minutes until chocolate sets.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Nut Butter Swap: Use almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.

Different Coatings: Try white or dark chocolate.

Crunch Factor: Roll dipped balls in crushed nuts, sprinkles, or toasted coconut.

Flavor Twist: Add a drop of almond or hazelnut extract.

Filling Boost: Mix mini chocolate chips or dried fruit into the mixture.

Topping Ideas: Sprinkle with sea salt, sesame seeds, or drizzle extra chocolate.

Storage: Airtight container at room temperature up to 5 days, fridge up to 7 days, freezer up to 1 month.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 ball
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg