There’s something so, so satisfying about the rich, nutty flavor of Trisha Yearwood’s peanut butter balls.
And guys, they are surprisingly easy to make!
Make sure to chill the mixture before rolling it into balls—this helps them hold their shape and makes handling a breeze.
You’ll find that these snacks are not only delicious but also perfect for a quick, homemade treat that’s always a hit.
How to Make Trisha Yearwood Peanut Butter Ball Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 Cup Dark Corn Syrup
- 1/2 Cup Light Corn Syrup
- 2 Cups Crunchy Peanut Butter
- 4 Cups Rice Cereal
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
In a large saucepan, stir the sugar, dark corn syrup, and light corn syrup together over medium heat until the mixture starts to bubble.
Step 2:
Remove from the heat.
Quickly mix in the crunchy peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 3:
Add the rice cereal to the mixture and stir well until everything is fully coated.
Be sure to use a strong spoon or spatula for this.
Step 4:
Once mixed, shape the mixture into small balls approximately the size of your palm.
You can make adjustments based on your preference.
Step 5:
Line a baking sheet with waxed paper and place the peanut butter balls on it to set.
You can refrigerate them for faster setting.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Choose the Right Peanut Butter
Using crunchy peanut butter adds that appealing texture.
If you prefer smooth, it will still turn out great, but the texture will be different.
Perfect Ball Size
Keep the size of the peanut butter balls equal to around a tablespoon.
This ensures even cooling and perfect bite-sized treats.
Mixing Tools
A strong wooden spoon or spatula is your best friend here because the mixture can be quite sticky and firm.
Alternate Coating Method
For an extra touch, roll the balls in crushed peanuts or sprinkles before setting.
It’s a fun way to add a decorative element.
Storage Suggestions
Keep these delicious peanut butter balls in an airtight container at room temperature.
They stay fresh for several days and are superb for snacking or gifting!
What to Serve with Trisha Yearwood Peanut Butter Balls
Fresh Fruit Platter
You can’t go wrong with a vibrant selection of fresh fruits alongside your peanut butter balls.
They’re a treat on their own and bring that juicy, refreshing bite to balance the rich sweetness.
Consider including a mix of berries, melon slices, or pineapple chunks for a color and flavor boost!
Cheese and Crackers
For a savory contrast, a plate of cheese and crackers can do wonders.
The combination of creamy cheese and crispy crackers offers a wonderful texture and taste that pairs well with the peanut butter balls.
Try incorporating different types of cheese like gouda or brie for more variety.
Veggie Sticks with Hummus
Serving veggie sticks like carrots and celery with hummus can provide a healthy crunchy option that complements the sweetness of the peanut butter balls.
It’s an easy way to add a nutritious element to your spread that guests will appreciate.
Chocolaty Coffee
If you’re aiming for something out of the ordinary, a rich, chocolaty coffee drink could be a great addition.
It enhances the chocolate notes in the peanut butter balls and offers a warm and comforting drink option.
Experiment with adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor dimension.
Sparkling Water with Citrus Slices
A glass of sparkling water topped with citrus slices is a simple but refreshing beverage choice.
It provides a palate-cleansing option between bites, and the citrus adds a nice zing that complements the nutty flavors.
Consider slices of lemon, lime, or even blood orange for a colorful touch.
Variations and Substitutions
Peanut Butter Options
You’re not limited to crunchy peanut butter!
If creamy peanut butter is more your style, go ahead and use it.
Feel free to test different brands to see which one you like best.
Sweetener Alternatives
Can’t find dark corn syrup?
Use white corn syrup as a substitute easily.
Some folks like to use honey or maple syrup for a different taste.
Add-ins
Looking to mix it up?
Try adding mini chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a twist.
Sunflower seeds or flaxseeds can add a nice crunch and some extra nutrition.
Creative Coatings
Once they’re shaped, try rolling the balls in finely chopped nuts.
Another option is to coat them in crushed Rice Krispies for a bit of texture.
You can even drizzle some melted chocolate for a sweet finish!
How to Store Leftover Trisha Yearwood Peanut Butter Balls
When you’ve made a batch of Trisha Yearwood’s peanut butter balls, you might find yourself with some leftovers.
To keep them fresh for several days, store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container right in your refrigerator.
This will help maintain their texture and flavor beautifully, keeping them ready for a quick treat whenever the mood strikes!
Freezing for Longer Storage
For extended storage, consider popping them in the freezer to keep them delicious for much longer.
Wrap each ball in plastic wrap or foil before placing them all in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
They can last in the freezer for a few months, so you’ve got plenty of time to enjoy them at your leisure!
Handling and Thawing
When you want to enjoy them again, take out the number of peanut butter balls you plan on serving.
Let them thaw gently in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
This way, they’ll be just as satisfying when they come back to room temperature, without compromising their smooth texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overheating the Sugar Mixture
You might be tempted to crank up the heat to speed things up, but be careful!
Too high a temperature can cause your sugar mixture to caramelize too much and affect the texture of your balls.
Stick to medium heat and keep a close eye on the saucepan.
Incorrect Peanut Butter Consistency
Using the incorrect type of peanut butter can throw off the consistency.
Crunchy peanut butter works best, but if it’s too dry, it won’t bind well with the syrup mixture.
Go for creamy if necessary but watch the texture closely.
Skipping the Cooling Time
It’s easy to get impatient, but skipping the cooling time is a common mistake.
If you don’t let the mixture cool slightly, it becomes too sticky to handle.
Let your mix sit for a bit to make forming the balls more manageable.
Trisha Yearwood Peanut Butter Ball Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 Cup Dark Corn Syrup
- 1/2 Cup Light Corn Syrup
- 2 Cups Crunchy Peanut Butter
- 4 Cups Rice Cereal
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, stir the sugar, dark corn syrup, and light corn syrup together over medium heat until the mixture starts to bubble.
- Remove from the heat.
- Quickly mix in the crunchy peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add the rice cereal to the mixture and stir well until everything is fully coated.
- Be sure to use a strong spoon or spatula for this.
- Once mixed, shape the mixture into small balls approximately the size of your palm.
- You can make adjustments based on your preference.
- Line a baking sheet with waxed paper and place the peanut butter balls on it to set.
- You can refrigerate them for faster setting.