Name: Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal; 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate)

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Get ready to fall head over heels for these irresistible Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies! This recipe takes classic peanut butter cups to the next level with a satisfying crispy crunch and a silky chocolate coating. Whether you whip up a batch for parties, holidays, or a no-fuss weeknight treat, these no-bake delights always impress and vanish quickly. Even better, making them is so easy, anyone can taste homemade nostalgia in every bite.

Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing what a handful of pantry staples can become when they’re mixed with a little love. Each ingredient in Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies pulls its weight—bringing flavor, texture, and that wow-factor chocolate finish.

Creamy peanut butter: Go for your favorite smooth peanut butter for the creamiest, dreamiest centers.
Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and helps the peanut butter hold its shape without overpowering the treat.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavor and brings a warm, homemade aroma.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and firms up the peanut butter mixture just right for rolling.
Rice Krispies cereal: The secret to that delightful crunch—fold in gently for the perfect snap!
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted chocolate creates a glossy coating with a chocolatey bite; you can swap for white or milk chocolate if you prefer.
Coconut oil or shortening (optional): Just a tablespoon makes the melted chocolate extra smooth and easy to dip.

How to Make Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies

Step 1: Mix the Peanut Butter Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it’s completely smooth and creamy, forming the luscious base for your peanut butter balls. This is where the magic begins: rich, nutty, and totally irresistible.

Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar

Gradually add the powdered sugar to your peanut butter mixture, working in a little at a time. Blend well after each addition so that everything is fully incorporated. You’re looking for a sturdy, fudgy dough that will easily hold its shape when you roll it into balls.

Step 3: Fold in Rice Krispies

Now it’s time for the signature crunch! Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, being careful not to crush them. You want every ball to have whole crispy bits, so use a light hand and a spatula to mix until just combined.

Step 4: Shape the Balls

With clean hands (or a small cookie scoop), take about 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time and roll it between your palms to create smooth, bite-sized balls. Place each one on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Pop the tray in the fridge for 30 minutes so the balls can firm up and get ready for their chocolate bath.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until the chocolate is completely smooth and glossy. Don’t overheat; just melt until pourable and perfectly dippable.

Step 6: Dip and Chill

Working one at a time, dip the chilled peanut butter balls into the melted chocolate using a fork or dipping tool. Let the excess chocolate drip off before returning each ball to the baking sheet. Once all the balls are dipped, refrigerate again for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chocolate is set and ready for snacking bliss.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies

Garnishes

For an eye-catching finish, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top of each chocolate-coated ball before the chocolate sets. You could also drizzle with melted white chocolate or add festive sprinkles—these little touches make the Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies feel extra special.

Side Dishes

These treats are the perfect star for any dessert spread, but they pair beautifully with fresh berries, a platter of other no-bake goodies, or even a cold glass of milk or coffee. Their sweet crunch balances out rich, creamy drinks and fruit alike.

Creative Ways to Present

To really wow your guests, arrange your Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies in mini cupcake liners on a pretty tiered stand. For holidays, wrap them up in decorative boxes with a colorful ribbon for the ultimate homemade gift—everyone will be asking for your recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These little bites are sturdy enough to make ahead. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The chocolate stays snappy, and the centers keep their signature texture—making these a fantastic grab-and-go treat.

Freezing

Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a freezer superstar! After dipping and setting, layer them in an airtight container with parchment between each layer. They’ll last for up to 2 months and thaw quickly at room temperature. Perfect for prepping in advance or enjoying a secret snack stash!

Reheating

No reheating is required for these no-bake beauties! If serving from the freezer, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to regain their creamy, crunchy texture. This lets the chocolate soften just enough for that perfect bite.

FAQs

Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter adds a little extra crunch and nutty bits to your Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies. Just know the texture will be a bit more rustic, which some people absolutely love!

Are these safe for peanut allergies if I use another nut butter?

For peanut allergy-friendly treats, swap in sunflower seed butter, almond butter, or cashew butter. The flavor will change a bit, but they’ll still be absolutely delicious and safe for nut-free needs—just double-check your other ingredients for possible allergens.

Can I make these without the chocolate coating?

Certainly! If you want to skip the chocolate, the peanut butter balls are still plenty tasty on their own. Roll them in cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or coconut flakes for a different kind of finish.

How do I prevent the Rice Krispies from getting soggy?

The key is to gently fold in the Rice Krispies at the very end and use fresh cereal. Making the Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies just before serving—or storing them in a cool place—keeps that signature crunch perfect.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes! This recipe easily doubles or even triples for parties, bake sales, or gift batches. Just be sure your mixing bowl is big enough for all the crispy goodness, and factor in a little more chill time if your trays are crowded.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a nostalgic treat that’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and loaded with chocolatey-peanut butter crunch, these Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a can’t-miss winner. Try them once and watch them disappear—then make another batch, because they really are that good!

Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies Recipe

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4.6 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 24 balls 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a delightful no-bake treat that combines creamy peanut butter, crispy cereal, and a chocolate coating. Perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings!

Ingredients

Scale

Peanut Butter Balls:

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 cups Rice Krispies cereal

Chocolate Coating:

1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate)

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Instructions

Mix Peanut Butter Mixture: In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla until smooth.
Add Sugar and Cereal: Gradually mix in powdered sugar, then fold in Rice Krispies gently.
Shape into Balls: Roll mixture into balls and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Melt Chocolate: In the microwave, melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in intervals.
Dip and Chill: Dip balls in chocolate, then refrigerate until set.
Serve: Store in the fridge until ready to enjoy.