Looking for a quick and irresistible no-bake dessert? These Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate Rice Krispies are everything you love—creamy peanut butter, crispy cereal crunch, and a smooth chocolate shell. Perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime snacking, this treat comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
🥄 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Baking Needed – Easy and oven-free, perfect for all ages to make.
- Sweet & Crunchy Combo – Creamy peanut butter pairs perfectly with crispy cereal and rich chocolate.
- Customizable – Switch up the cereal, add a drizzle, or sprinkle sea salt on top.
- Great for Gifting – A festive bite-sized dessert for holidays, potlucks, or cookie trays.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups chocolate Rice Krispies cereal
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or shortening (optional for smoother coating)
👩🍳 How to Make Peanut Butter Balls
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, mix peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar until a thick dough forms.
Fold in the chocolate Rice Krispies gently until fully mixed.
Step 2: Shape the Balls
Scoop 1-tbsp portions of the dough and roll into balls.
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Dip in Chocolate
Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.
Dip each ball in the chocolate using a fork or toothpick, letting the excess drip off.
Place back on the baking sheet.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes until the chocolate coating is set.
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 1 week.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Holiday Platters: Perfect addition to Christmas, Easter, or Valentine’s treat trays.
- Lunchbox Treats: A fun and surprising no-bake sweet for kids and adults alike.
- Dessert Boards: Serve alongside fruit, cookies, and other finger foods.
- Gift Jars: Package in cellophane or small mason jars for a sweet homemade gift.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Room Temp: Safe for short-term display at parties, but keep chilled for best texture.
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Freeze on a tray first, then store in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge.
🥜 Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Parchment-lined baking sheet
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Fork or toothpick
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups chocolate Rice Krispies cereal
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or shortening optional, for smoother coating
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
- In a bowl, mix peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually stir in powdered sugar until a thick dough forms.
- Fold in chocolate Rice Krispies cereal until fully incorporated.
- Step 2: Shape the Balls
- Scoop out 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll into balls.
- Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes until firm.
- Step 3: Dip in Chocolate
- Melt chocolate chips and optional coconut oil in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
- Dip each ball into chocolate, let excess drip off, and place back on the sheet.
- Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes until chocolate is set.
- Serve chilled or at room temp. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Notes
🔍 Nutrition (Per Ball – Approximate)
- Calories: ~150
- Fat: ~10g
- Carbs: ~13g
- Sugar: ~10g
- Protein: ~3g
- Sodium: ~70mg
🔥 Pro Tips
- Chill Before Dipping: Firm balls hold their shape better during chocolate coating.
- Use a Fork for Dipping: Allows excess chocolate to drip off smoothly.
- Don’t Overmix Cereal: Fold gently to keep the Rice Krispies crisp.
- Keep Cool When Serving: These treats are best served slightly chilled for optimal texture.
🔄 Variations & Add-Ons
- Nutty Twist: Add crushed peanuts, almonds, or cashews inside or as a topping.
- Flavor Swaps: Use almond butter, cashew butter, or cookie butter in place of peanut butter.
- Decorate: Sprinkle with festive sprinkles, drizzle with white chocolate, or dust with cocoa powder.
- Cereal Swap: Use crushed cornflakes, crisped quinoa cereal, or puffed rice for different textures.
- Salty-Sweet Finish: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before the chocolate sets.
🔍 Nutrition (Per Ball – Approximate)
- Calories: ~150
- Fat: ~10g
- Carbs: ~13g
- Sugar: ~10g
- Protein: ~3g
- Sodium: ~70mg
❓ FAQs
Can I use regular Rice Krispies instead of chocolate?
Yes! Regular or even peanut butter-flavored cereal works great too.
Can I freeze these?
Absolutely. Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
What if my mixture is too soft?
Add a little more powdered sugar until the dough is firm enough to roll.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, just use dairy-free chocolate and a plant-based butter alternative.
✅ Final Thoughts
These Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate Rice Krispies are a no-bake dream—simple, delicious, and always a crowd favorite. Whether you’re making them for the holidays, gifting them to friends, or sneaking a treat for yourself, this recipe delivers on taste and texture every time.
Give them a try and enjoy the sweet, crunchy satisfaction in every bite! 🥜🍫✨
