If you’re craving the absolute best combo of creamy peanut butter and crunchy, chocolate-dipped magic, look no further than these easy, crowd-pleasing Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies. Whether you’re planning a holiday cookie swap, prepping after-school snacks, or just treating yourself after dinner, this no-bake dessert is pure happiness in a bite-size package. With a sweet, salty, and satisfyingly crispy center wrapped in smooth chocolate, there’s no resisting just one more—trust me, these are love at first bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how simple (but totally essential!) each ingredient is in this recipe. Every item plays an important role in building the unforgettable taste and signature texture of Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies.
- Creamy peanut butter: The star of the show for flavor and that melt-in-your-mouth base.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Adds creaminess and richness without overwhelming the peanut butter flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Brings out the natural sweetness and adds a cozy, home-baked aroma.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and binds everything together for the perfect scoopable texture.
- Rice Krispies cereal: Provides the signature crunch and a playful pop in every bite.
- Semisweet chocolate chips: The delicious outer shell, balancing the sweet and salty flavors inside.
- Coconut oil or shortening (optional): Helps melt the chocolate to silky-smooth perfection and gives each ball a glossy, pro finish.
How to Make Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Step 1: Blend the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Use a sturdy spatula or a hand mixer for this step—your goal is a super-smooth, homogenous base, with no lumps of butter. That creamy foundation is the secret to decadent, bakery-style Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies.
Step 2: Incorporate the Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing between each addition. The mixture will start out sticky, then get denser and more dough-like as the sugar works its magic. Don’t rush this part! Mixing in stages keeps everything smooth and easy to shape later.
Step 3: Fold in the Rice Krispies
Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal. For maximum crunch, use a gentle hand—think broad, sweeping motions to avoid smashing the cereal. Even distribution ensures every Peanut Butter Ball with Rice Krispies is bursting with that iconic crispy surprise.
Step 4: Shape the Balls
Scoop out tablespoons of the mixture and roll them between your palms to form 1-inch balls. You should get about 24, though a few extra tiny ones definitely deserve a taste test! Place each finished ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch.
Step 5: Chill to Firm
Pop the tray into your refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling is crucial—it firms up the centers, making them much easier to coat in chocolate later without falling apart.
Step 6: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips with the coconut oil or shortening (if using). Go in 30-second bursts and stir in between to keep the chocolate smooth and prevent burning. The coconut oil gives the chocolate a beautiful sheen and makes dipping even easier.
Step 7: Dip and Set
Working with one ball at a time, use a fork or skewer to dip each Peanut Butter Ball with Rice Krispies into the melted chocolate. Let any excess drip off, then place back on the parchment-lined tray. Once all are coated, chill again for 15–20 minutes so the chocolate sets perfectly. You can devour them as soon as they’re firm—if you can wait that long!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Garnishes
Dress them up by sprinkling each chocolate shell with a pinch of flaky sea salt, crushed peanuts, or even a drizzle of white chocolate before the coating sets. These simple touches make Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies extra inviting and completely irresistible at any dessert table.
Side Dishes
While these treats are awesome on their own, they love being part of a bigger dessert spread. Pair with fresh fruit skewers, a platter of brownies, or salty pretzel sticks for a little sweet-and-salty magic. They’re also a delightful companion to an afternoon coffee or hot cocoa break.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to really wow your guests, stack these chocolate-covered gems pyramid-style on a festive platter, or tuck them into mini cupcake liners for a polished look. For gifting, line a pretty box with parchment and arrange the Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies in neat little rows—homemade treats never looked (or tasted) so good.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies (if you’re lucky enough to have any!) keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This keeps the chocolate firm and the insides just the right amount of creamy and crisp.
Freezing
These little treats are freezer-friendly too! Lay the balls in a single layer on a tray until frozen, then transfer to a zip-top bag or container, separating layers with parchment. They’ll stay fresh up to three months; just thaw in the fridge before serving for best texture.
Reheating
No reheating required—these are meant to be enjoyed chilled or at cool room temperature. If you prefer a softer bite, briefly let the balls sit at room temp for about 5 minutes before serving. If your home is warm, always store in the fridge to avoid melted chocolate fingers.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter for this recipe?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds even more nutty texture to Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies, making them extra satisfying. Just know the mixture might be slightly more rustic, but the flavor is just as wonderful.
Do I have to use coconut oil or shortening in the chocolate?
Nope! The coconut oil simply helps the chocolate melt smoother and gives a glossy finish, but you can skip it if you’d rather. Melted chocolate alone works perfectly fine for dipping your Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies.
What’s the best way to dip the balls?
Use a fork or skewer for dipping—drop each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, then lift it out, letting the excess chocolate drip back into the bowl. Don’t worry about a bit of mess; those little chocolate “feet” just add charm to homemade treats!
Can I make these dairy-free or vegan?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and make sure to use dairy-free/vegan chocolate chips. With these easy swaps, your Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are ready to delight everyone.
Are these gluten-free?
Classic Rice Krispies cereal contains malt flavoring (and therefore gluten), but you can find certified gluten-free crisped rice cereals at many grocery stores. With that swap, this recipe is totally gluten-free!
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to fall in love with an easy treat that disappears in a flash, go make a batch of Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies. With every bite, you get creamy, crispy, chocolate-dipped happiness! Give them a try and share the joy—these just might be your new favorite treat, too.
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Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 balls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies for a sweet and crunchy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and Rice Krispies are rolled into bite-sized balls, dipped in rich chocolate, and chilled to perfection.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Mixture:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Additions:
- 1 1/2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate)
Instructions
- Mix Peanut Butter Mixture: In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fully incorporated.
- Add Rice Krispies: Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly distributed.
- Form Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
- Dip and Chill: Dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Return to the baking sheet and chill for 15–20 minutes until set.
Notes
- You can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- To make them dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 2mg
