Description

These no-bake Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the light crunch of Rice Krispies, all wrapped in a smooth, decadent chocolate coating. This simple, quick recipe is perfect for holidays, parties, or when you want a sweet treat without turning on the oven. It’s also versatile, allowing you to make healthier, vegan, gluten-free, or even peanut-free versions depending on your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup creamy peanut butter (no-stir)
3 tbsp salted butter (melted)
1 cup powdered sugar
2 1/2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chocolate melting wafers)

Instructions

Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, blend the melted butter and peanut butter until smooth. Make sure the mixture is well-combined for a consistent texture.
Add Rice Krispies and Powdered Sugar:
Gradually fold in the Rice Krispies cereal to evenly distribute the crunch throughout the mixture. Then, mix in the powdered sugar until the dough becomes thick and cohesive.
Shape the Balls:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion the mixture and roll it into bite-sized balls. Place the balls on the prepared sheet and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Melt the Chocolate:
Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler.
Coat the Peanut Butter Balls:
Dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Use a fork or dipping tool to help remove the balls, allowing excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back on the parchment paper.
Final Chill:
Return the chocolate-coated balls to the refrigerator and chill until the chocolate is fully set, about 15-30 minutes.

Notes

Using no-stir peanut butter helps achieve the right texture without the mixture becoming too oily or dry.
The powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but also acts as a binder to hold the mixture together.
Chilling the mixture before dipping in chocolate makes it easier to handle and gives the balls a firmer texture.
Be cautious not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize if exposed to too much heat too quickly.
You can add sprinkles, chopped nuts, or sea salt on top of the chocolate coating before it sets for extra texture and flavor.
Storing the balls in the fridge helps the chocolate harden perfectly and keeps the peanut butter filling from becoming too soft.