These Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a delightful no-bake treat combining the creamy, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the satisfying crunch of Rice Krispies. Coated in chocolate for a rich finish, these bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, holidays, or as a quick snack. Easy to make and loved by both kids and adults, they’ll be a hit whenever you serve them!
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ¼ cup softened butter
- 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup crunchy peanut butter
- Chocolate candy coating, as needed
- 54 mini muffin paper cups
Instructions for Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup powdered sugar and ¼ cup softened butter. Beat until smooth and well combined.
- Add the 1 cup crunchy peanut butter and mix until everything is fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal, being careful not to crush the cereal. Stir until the Rice Krispies are evenly distributed throughout the peanut butter mixture.
2. Shape the Peanut Butter Balls
- Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place the balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate the peanut butter balls for about 30 minutes to firm up and make dipping easier.
3. Melt the Chocolate Coating
- While the peanut butter balls are chilling, melt the chocolate candy coating according to the package instructions. You can use a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
4. Coat the Peanut Butter Balls
- Once the peanut butter balls are firm, remove them from the refrigerator. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, using a fork to lift them out and allowing any excess chocolate to drip off.
- Place each chocolate-coated ball into a mini muffin paper cup and return them to the baking sheet.
5. Let the Chocolate Set
- Allow the chocolate coating to set at room temperature, or place the peanut butter balls in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes until the chocolate hardens completely.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Once the chocolate has set, your Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Crunchy Peanut Butter: The use of crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture, but if you prefer a smoother texture, feel free to use creamy peanut butter.
- Chocolate Coating: You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate for coating, depending on your preference.
- Storing: These peanut butter balls store well in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Variations for Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
1. Peanut Butter and Coconut Balls
- Roll the peanut butter mixture in shredded coconut before dipping them in chocolate for a tropical twist.
2. Peanut Butter Pretzel Balls
- Add ½ cup of crushed pretzels to the peanut butter mixture for a salty-sweet combination that pairs perfectly with the chocolate coating.
3. Nut-Free Version
- Substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter for a nut-free or alternative nut version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use different cereals instead of Rice Krispies?
Yes! You can experiment with other crispy cereals like Corn Flakes, Cheerios, or even crushed graham crackers for a slightly different texture and flavor.
2. Can I make these peanut butter balls ahead of time?
Absolutely! These peanut butter balls can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or frozen for up to 3 months.
3. How do I melt the chocolate coating without burning it?
If you’re using a microwave, melt the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each session. If you’re using a double boiler, make sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the bowl to prevent scorching the chocolate.
A Simple, Crowd-Pleasing Treat
These Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a simple yet satisfying treat that combines the best of both worlds—creamy peanut butter and crunchy Rice Krispies, all wrapped in a rich chocolate coating. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or a quick snack, these no-bake bites are sure to disappear fast!
