Chocolate-Dipped Peanut Butter Treats
Ingredients
1 cup smooth peanut butter
½ cup butter
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Approximately 72 small pretzels
1 package semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
Mix softened butter, peanut butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar in a large bowl. Start with a hand mixer on low speed, then increase to high to achieve a smooth mixture.
Scoop small portions of the peanut butter mixture using a cookie scoop. Place each scoop on a pretzel, add another pretzel on top, and press slightly so the mixture shows through the holes.
Optional: Chill in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before dipping in chocolate.
Melting Chocolate with an Instant Pot:
Fill the Instant Pot with 5-6 cups of water. Set it to ‘Saute’.
Position a larger glass bowl on top to create a double boiler effect. The steam from the boiling water will gently melt the chocolate in the bowl.
Add the chocolate chips to the bowl, stirring occasionally until smooth.
Dip the pretzel bites halfway into the chocolate, then place them on a lined cookie sheet to cool for about 30 minutes.
Melting Chocolate with a Microwave:
Put the chocolate chips in a glass bowl and microwave for 30 seconds. Stir.
Repeat microwaving for 30 seconds and stirring.
If needed, microwave for additional 15-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Dip the pretzel bites halfway into the chocolate. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to set.
For faster setting, you can refrigerate for a few minutes.
Store in a sealed container.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer the added texture.
Is it necessary to chill the peanut butter mixture before dipping in chocolate?
Chilling is optional but can make the mixture firmer, making it easier to handle and dip in chocolate.
Can I skip the vanilla extract in the peanut butter mixture?
Yes, you can omit the vanilla extract without significantly affecting the recipe.
How do I properly melt chocolate using an Instant Pot?
Fill the Instant Pot with water, set to ‘Saute,’ and place a bowl with chocolate on top. Stir occasionally until the chocolate is smooth.
Can I use a different type of chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or a combination based on your taste preference.
What’s the purpose of using pretzels in this recipe?
Pretzels provide a salty contrast to the sweet peanut butter and chocolate, creating a delicious flavor combination.
Can I use a different type of pretzel, like twists or rods?
Yes, you can use different pretzel shapes, but consider adjusting the amount of peanut butter mixture accordingly.
How long should I let the chocolate-dipped pretzel bites cool?
Allow the dipped pretzels to cool on a lined sheet for about 30 minutes at room temperature.
Can I freeze these treats for later consumption?
Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
How long do these treats stay fresh, and how should I store them?
Stored in a sealed container, these treats stay fresh for about a week at room temperature or longer if refrigerated.