These Rice Krispies Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls are a sweet, crunchy, and chocolatey treat that combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate with the delightful crispiness of Rice Krispies cereal. Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a quick snack, these no-bake goodies are easy to make and require only a few simple ingredients. Kids and adults alike will love the combination of creamy peanut butter, crispy cereal, and a smooth chocolate coating.
Let’s get started on these irresistible bite-sized delights!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or melting chocolate
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional, for thinning chocolate)
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Peanut Butter Mixture
- Combine Peanut Butter and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and softened butter. Use a hand mixer or a wooden spoon to mix until smooth and well blended.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture, mixing until fully incorporated. The mixture should be thick and slightly crumbly.
- Fold in Rice Krispies and Vanilla: Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal and vanilla extract until evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Be careful not to crush the cereal too much; you want it to stay crispy.
Step 2: Form the Peanut Butter Balls
- Shape the Balls: Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If the mixture is too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to make it easier to work with.
- Chill the Balls: Once all the balls are formed, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator or freezer for about 20-30 minutes, or until they are firm. This makes them easier to dip in the chocolate.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Coating
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate in a double boiler on the stovetop.
- Stir Until Smooth: Stir the chocolate until it is smooth and slightly cooled, but still liquid. The coconut oil or shortening helps create a smoother coating and makes it easier to dip.
Step 4: Coat the Peanut Butter Balls
- Dip the Balls: Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, making sure it is completely coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing it back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Garnish (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the tops of the chocolate-coated balls with chopped peanuts for added crunch and flavor. You can also drizzle additional melted white chocolate over the top for a decorative touch.
Step 5: Set the Chocolate
- Chill to Set: Place the baking sheet with the chocolate-coated balls back in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set and hardened.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: Serve the Rice Krispies Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls chilled or at room temperature as a snack, dessert, or party treat.
- Storage: Store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the balls in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Helpful Notes:
- Peanut Butter Options: Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture, but if you prefer extra crunch, feel free to use chunky peanut butter.
- Adjust Sweetness: For a less sweet version, reduce the amount of powdered sugar or use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate for the coating.
- Alternative Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like crushed pretzels, sprinkles, or shredded coconut for a fun twist.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
- Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman): Recommends using a high-quality chocolate for melting to ensure a glossy and smooth finish.
- Martha Stewart: Suggests adding a pinch of sea salt to the peanut butter mixture to enhance the flavors and balance the sweetness.
- Alton Brown: Advises chilling the balls thoroughly before dipping them in chocolate to prevent them from melting or falling apart.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make these peanut butter balls nut-free?
Yes, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or another nut-free alternative for a nut-free version. - Can I use white or milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?
Absolutely! Use any type of chocolate you prefer for the coating. White, milk, or dark chocolate will all work well. - How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter and dairy-free chocolate chips for a dairy-free version. - Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but be sure to mix the natural peanut butter well, as it tends to separate. You may also need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar to reach the right consistency. - What if I don’t have Rice Krispies cereal?
You can substitute Rice Krispies with another crispy cereal like cornflakes, Cheerios, or even crushed graham crackers. - Can I make these in advance?
Yes, these treats are great for making ahead. Prepare them up to 2 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator until needed. - How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking?
Ensure the peanut butter balls are not too cold when dipping in the chocolate, and avoid rapid temperature changes. - Can I add other ingredients to the mixture?
Yes! Feel free to add ingredients like mini chocolate chips, dried fruit, or shredded coconut to the peanut butter mixture for added texture and flavor. - How can I make the chocolate coating smoother?
Adding a small amount of coconut oil or shortening to the chocolate helps achieve a smooth and shiny finish. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use vegan butter, dairy-free chocolate chips, and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.
Conclusion:
Rice Krispies Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls are an easy, no-bake treat that combines classic flavors with a fun, crunchy twist. With their rich peanut butter center, crispy cereal crunch, and smooth chocolate coating, these little bites of bliss are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a party, a holiday, or just a snack, they’re sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Enjoy making these delightful treats and sharing them with loved ones!
