Donkey Balls Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate crowd-pleasing treat, look no further than this Donkey Balls Recipe! These decadent, no-bake delights combine rich peanut butter, a touch of crunch from graham crackers, and a silky coat of chocolate for a sweet bite that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re whipping them up for holiday parties, gifting, or just to satisfy a late-night sweet tooth, these playful treats are guaranteed to spark joy (and requests for seconds!). You’ll be amazed at how easy and fun it is to create a batch of Donkey Balls Recipe, and I promise, one bite is all it takes to make them a family favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t you love a recipe that keeps it simple yet delivers on flavor and texture? Every ingredient in Donkey Balls Recipe plays a starring role, from the creamy peanut butter base to the smooth chocolate shell—each bite is a little symphony of sweet, salty, and crunchy!
- Peanut Butter: Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth filling that’s rich and satisfying.
- Unsalted Butter: Softened butter adds a luxurious texture and balances the sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a splash deepens the flavor and brings out the sweetness in the peanut butter.
- Powdered Sugar: This sweetens the mixture and helps it come together into that perfect, scoopable dough.
- Crushed Graham Crackers: They add crunch and a nostalgic, toasty note that makes these balls extra special.
- Salt: Just a pinch sharpens all the flavors—don’t skip it!
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: The classic choice for a glossy, snappy coating that isn’t too sweet.
- Coconut Oil or Vegetable Shortening (optional): Add this for an even smoother, easier-to-dip chocolate finish.
How to Make Donkey Balls Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Peanut Butter Base
Start by combining the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or sturdy spoon to blend everything together until it’s completely smooth and creamy. This is the backbone of your Donkey Balls Recipe, so make sure it’s well mixed!
Step 2: Add the Crunch and Sweetness
Next, stir in the powdered sugar, crushed graham crackers, and a dash of salt. The mixture will transform from glossy and loose to thick and slightly crumbly—just what you want. If it feels too sticky, add a bit more graham cracker; if it’s too dry, a spoonful more peanut butter will do the trick.
Step 3: Roll Into Balls
Now the fun part! Scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your hands to form 1-inch balls. Line them up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. You should get around 24 Donkey Balls, but no one’s judging if you sneak a taste as you go!
Step 4: Chill to Set
Pop the tray into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This quick chill helps the balls firm up, making them much easier to coat in chocolate later. Patience here pays off with perfectly shaped treats.
Step 5: Melt the Chocolate
While the balls are chilling, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in a heatproof bowl. Melt them together over a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring until the chocolate is velvety smooth. The coconut oil isn’t a must, but it gives your chocolate a professional, glossy sheen.
Step 6: Dip and Finish
Using a fork or skewer, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off. Place the coated balls back on the parchment-lined tray. Once all are coated, return them to the fridge for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the chocolate is set and irresistibly snappy.
How to Serve Donkey Balls Recipe

Garnishes
Add a flourish to your Donkey Balls Recipe by sprinkling the tops with flaky sea salt, crushed peanuts, or festive sprinkles before the chocolate sets. A tiny drizzle of white chocolate or even a dusting of cocoa powder can take these treats from homemade to truly show-stopping.
Side Dishes
While Donkey Balls are perfect on their own, they shine on a dessert platter alongside fresh fruit, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a handful of salty pretzels. Their rich, nutty flavor pairs beautifully with coffee, milk, or even a glass of bubbly for a fun party vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile your Donkey Balls Recipe high on a tiered cake stand for a holiday table centerpiece, or tuck them into mini cupcake liners for easy gifting. For parties, try skewering them on sticks for a playful cake-pop effect, or pack a few in a cellophane bag with a pretty ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Donkey Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to a week, making them the perfect make-ahead treat for busy days or impromptu guests.
Freezing
These freeze beautifully! Arrange the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating
Donkey Balls Recipe is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so no need to reheat. If you prefer a slightly softer bite, let them sit out for 10 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it may melt the chocolate coating.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture and a nutty bite to the Donkey Balls Recipe. Just keep in mind the mixture may be a bit stiffer to roll, but the added crunch is totally worth it.
How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?
Be sure to melt the chocolate slowly, either in a double boiler or in the microwave at low power in short intervals. Adding a bit of coconut oil or shortening helps keep the chocolate smooth and easy to work with.
Can I make this Donkey Balls Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the regular graham crackers for a gluten-free variety, and you’re good to go. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy adaptation for dietary needs.
What’s the best way to crush graham crackers?
Pop your graham crackers into a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin for a rustic texture, or pulse them in a food processor for finer crumbs. Either method works great in this Donkey Balls Recipe.
Can I double the recipe for a party?
Definitely! This recipe doubles (or even triples) beautifully. Just be sure to use a large mixing bowl, and you’ll have plenty of Donkey Balls to share—or to keep for yourself!
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly joyful about making (and eating!) a batch of Donkey Balls Recipe. They’re simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to put a smile on anyone’s face. Give them a try and see how quickly they disappear—don’t be surprised if they become a new go-to favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Donkey Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 24 balls 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Donkey Balls are a delightful no-bake treat featuring creamy peanut butter and semi-sweet chocolate. These rich, sweet, and crunchy candy balls are perfect for holidays, gifting, or satisfying your sweet tooth with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
- 1/4 tsp salt
Coating
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother coating)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients form a smooth, uniform mixture.
- Add dry ingredients: Gradually stir in the powdered sugar, crushed graham crackers, and salt. Continue mixing until a thick dough forms that holds together well.
- Shape the balls: Roll the dough mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands. Place each ball onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Chill the balls: Refrigerate the shaped balls for at least 30 minutes to firm them up, making them easier to dip in chocolate.
- Melt the chocolate: While the balls chill, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and optional coconut oil or vegetable shortening in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water or in short bursts in the microwave. Stir frequently until the chocolate is completely smooth and glossy.
- Dip and coat: Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Let the excess chocolate drip back into the bowl.
- Set the coating: Return the coated balls to the parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for another 15–20 minutes or until the chocolate coating is firm and set.
Notes
- For added texture and crunch, consider mixing crushed pretzels or chopped peanuts into the filling before rolling.
- Store the finished Donkey Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- These treats make wonderful homemade holiday gifts or party snacks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 60 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 2 mg