Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a no-bake, crunchy, and creamy treat that brings together the rich flavor of peanut butter, the crispiness of cereal, and the sweetness of chocolate. Perfect for holiday platters, lunchbox snacks, or anytime indulgence, these bites are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

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

creamy peanut butter
unsalted butter
powdered sugar
vanilla extract
Rice Krispies cereal
semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
optional: coconut oil or shortening (to thin the chocolate for dipping)

directions

In a large mixing bowl, cream together peanut butter and softened butter until smooth and well combined.

Stir in the vanilla extract and gradually mix in powdered sugar until a thick dough forms.

Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, being careful not to crush them.

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Chill the balls in the refrigerator or freezer for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Add a bit of coconut oil or shortening if a smoother consistency is desired.

Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate using a fork or toothpick. Let the excess drip off before placing back on the parchment paper.

Refrigerate until the chocolate is set.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 30 balls.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Dipping and setting time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Use crunchy peanut butter for extra texture.
Roll the balls in crushed nuts or sprinkles before the chocolate sets for added flair.
Swap peanut butter for almond or sunflower seed butter for allergy-friendly options.
Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the dipped chocolate for a salty-sweet twist.

storage/reheating

Store Peanut Butter Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed container or freezer bag.
Let frozen balls thaw in the refrigerator before serving—no reheating needed.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but make sure it’s well stirred and not too oily or dry, as it may affect the texture.

Can I make these without chocolate?

Absolutely, they’re still delicious without the chocolate coating or can be rolled in cocoa powder instead.

Why are my balls too soft?

Make sure the dough is chilled properly before dipping and adjust the sugar amount if needed to firm them up.

Can kids help make these?

Yes, this is a great no-bake recipe for kids to help roll, dip, and decorate.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe scales easily for larger batches.

What kind of chocolate is best?

Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips work well, but you can use dark chocolate if preferred.

Why did my chocolate coating crack?

If the balls are too cold when dipped or if the chocolate sets too quickly, it may cause cracking.

Do I need to refrigerate them?

Yes, especially in warmer climates to keep the chocolate from melting and the balls firm.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or mini chocolate chips can be mixed in for added texture.

Are these gluten-free?

If using gluten-free Rice Krispies and chocolate, this recipe can be made gluten-free.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are the perfect mix of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness in one bite-sized treat. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just for fun, they’re simple to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a staple in your no-bake dessert rotation.

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