Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter with the satisfying crunch of rice krispies. This no-bake candy is perfect for holidays, parties, or just a sweet snack at home. The combination of textures and flavors makes these peanut butter balls a standout dessert that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy to Make: With only 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious treats without any fuss.
- No Baking Required: This recipe is perfect for those who want a sweet snack without turning on the oven.
- Customizable Flavors: Add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits to make these peanut butter balls even more special.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple family treat, these peanut butter balls fit right in.
- Kid-Friendly Activity: Making these treats can be a fun cooking project for kids to enjoy!
Tools and Preparation
To make Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies, you’ll need some essential tools to help streamline your process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Kitchenaid mixer or hand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop
- Microwave-safe bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Kitchenaid mixer or hand mixer: This tool helps blend the ingredients smoothly and saves time compared to mixing by hand.
- Rubber spatula: A rubber spatula ensures that you can scrape down the sides of your bowl and incorporate all ingredients thoroughly.
- Cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop allows for consistent sizing of your peanut butter balls, making them uniform and appealing.
Ingredients
Peanut butter balls are taken to the next level by adding in the crunchy sweetness of rice krispies. This no bake candy recipe is sure to be a favorite for the holidays!
For the Base
- 1 cup creamy no stir peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 ½ cups rice krispies cereal
For Coating
- 12 oz Semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chocolate melting wafers)
How to Make Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Step 1: Mix Peanut Butter and Butter
Use a Kitchenaid or hand mixer to combine the creamy no stir peanut butter and melted salted butter. Blend until smooth.
Step 2: Incorporate Rice Krispies
Add in the rice krispies cereal, mixing gently until all the cereal is coated well with the peanut butter mixture.
Step 3: Add Powdered Sugar
Mix in the powdered sugar. Continue blending until everything is combined.
Step 4: Final Mixing
Once it becomes too hard to mix, finish combining using a rubber spatula.
Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking when you place your peanut butter balls on it.
Step 6: Scoop and Shape Balls
Use a cookie scoop to drop portions of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Roll each portion into a ball with your hands.
Step 7: Chill
Place the formed balls in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to chill and firm up.
Step 8: Melt Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Heat until smooth, stirring occasionally.
Step 9: Coat Balls in Chocolate
Dip each chilled rice krispies peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate. Ensure they are fully coated before placing them back onto the baking sheet.
Step 10: Final Chill
Chill again until firm.
Step 11: Store Leftovers
Store any leftover peanut butter balls in an airtight container for several days or freeze them for several weeks.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Peanut butter balls with rice krispies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.
As a Dessert Platter
- Serve them alongside other desserts like brownies and cookies for a sweet spread.
- Pair with fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast in flavors.
With a Glass of Milk
- Enjoy these peanut butter balls with chilled milk for a classic combination.
- You can also try them with almond or oat milk for a twist.
In Gift Boxes
- Package them in decorative boxes to give as homemade gifts during the holidays.
- Add a personalized note to make it special for loved ones.
At Parties
- Set out bowls of peanut butter balls at parties as an easy and fun snack.
- Consider adding festive sprinkles on top for a celebratory touch.
For Movie Nights
- Perfect for snacking while watching movies, these bites are easy to grab and enjoy.
- Pair with popcorn for an ultimate movie treat experience.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
To ensure your peanut butter balls turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Use creamy peanut butter: This helps achieve the best texture and flavor. Avoid chunky varieties unless you want extra crunch.
- Melt the chocolate slowly: Heat chocolate chips in short intervals to prevent burning. Stir between each interval until smooth.
- Chill before dipping: Chilling the balls before dipping in chocolate makes them easier to handle and helps maintain their shape.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the mixture before rolling into balls; add more powdered sugar if you prefer a sweeter treat.
- Store properly: Keep leftover peanut butter balls in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They also freeze well for long-term storage.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
While peanut butter balls are delicious on their own, pairing them with side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the peanut butter balls.
- Cheese Platter: Include cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar; their savory notes complement the sweetness of the treats.
- Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: These salty snacks provide a crunchy contrast, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Trail Mix: A mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits creates a delightful crunch that pairs well with the soft texture of peanut butter balls.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and berries offers a creamy side that contrasts nicely with the dense treats.
- Brownies: Rich, fudgy brownies make another indulgent option that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making peanut butter balls with rice krispies is simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your delicious treat.
- Using the wrong peanut butter: Always opt for creamy, no-stir peanut butter. This ensures a smooth consistency that binds well with other ingredients.
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the balls before dipping them in chocolate helps them hold their shape. Don’t skip this crucial step!
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the mixture tough. Blend gently until just combined for a softer texture.
- Not measuring accurately: Use precise measurements for powdered sugar and rice krispies to maintain balance in flavor and texture.
- Rushing the chocolate melting: Melting chocolate too quickly can lead to burning. Use a low power setting in the microwave and stir frequently for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store peanut butter balls in an airtight container.
- They can last up to one week in the fridge.
Freezing Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
- For long-term storage, freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
- They will keep well for several weeks.
Reheating Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on low power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making peanut butter balls with rice krispies.
How do I make Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies vegan?
You can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture and flavor to your peanut butter balls.
What type of chocolate is best for coating?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips or melting wafers work perfectly for coating these treats.
How can I customize my Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies?
Feel free to add mix-ins like mini marshmallows, chopped nuts, or dried fruit for added flavor!
Final Thoughts
Peanut butter balls with rice krispies are not only delightful but also versatile. They make excellent gifts or additions to any dessert table. Feel free to customize them with your favorite flavors and mix-ins. Give this easy recipe a try and enjoy the joy it brings!
Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a delightful no-bake treat that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the satisfying crunch of rice cereal. Perfect for every occasion, these irresistible bites are ideal for holiday gatherings, parties, or as a sweet snack at home. With their easy preparation and customizable flavors, they quickly become a favorite among both kids and adults. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making them a must-try dessert that’s sure to impress!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 20 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy no-stir peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 ½ cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (for coating)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and melted butter until smooth using a hand mixer.
- Gently fold in the Rice Krispies until fully coated with the peanut butter mixture.
- Add powdered sugar and mix until well combined.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll into balls using your hands.
- Chill the balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth, stirring intermittently.
- Dip each chilled ball into melted chocolate, ensuring full coverage, then place back on the baking sheet.
- Chill again until the chocolate is set.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball (30g)
- Calories: 138
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 9mg
