There is something utterly irresistible about these Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Balls (No Bake) Recipe. Imagine crispy Rice Krispies mixed with creamy peanut butter and butter, sweetened with just the right amount of powdered sugar, all wrapped in a smooth, indulgent chocolate shell. These little bites of delight offer the perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, and sweetness without ever needing to turn on your oven. Whether you’re craving a quick treat or want a simple dessert to impress, this recipe feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a starring role. From the creamy richness of peanut butter to the satisfying crunch of crispy rice cereal, every component works together to create an unforgettable treat.
- 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or creamy): Gives the balls their rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
- ¼ cup butter (room temperature): Adds a smooth, luscious body and helps bind the ingredients perfectly.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the mixture without graininess, creating that classic candy texture.
- ½ cup crispy rice cereal: Provides the delightful crunch and lightness that balances the creaminess.
- 2 cups chocolate melting wafers or chocolate chips: Creates the decadent chocolate coating that seals all the flavors inside.
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional): Thins the chocolate for a perfectly smooth and glossy finish; vegetable oil works just as well if preferred.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Balls (No Bake) Recipe
Step 1: Whip Together the Peanut Butter Mixture
Start by combining the peanut butter and room temperature butter in a large bowl. Using a hand mixer, beat them together until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth. This step is crucial to ensure the peanut butter blends well with the other ingredients, creating a luscious base for your treats.
Step 2: Sweeten with Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar to your peanut butter and butter blend, continuing to beat the mixture. The powdered sugar dissolves effortlessly, bringing just the right level of sweetness without any grit.
Step 3: Fold in the Crispy Rice Cereal
Gently stir the crispy rice cereal into the peanut butter mixture. This component is essential because it creates that signature crispy crunch that makes every bite so satisfying. Make sure to coat the cereal thoroughly but carefully, so it keeps its texture.
Step 4: Shape the Balls
Use a medium cookie scoop—about one tablespoon—to scoop out portions of the mixture. Roll each portion into a 1-inch ball with your hands, then lay them onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment or wax paper. This size is just perfect for bite-sized indulgence.
Step 5: Chill the Peanut Butter Balls
Pop the tray of balls in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step firms them up, making them easier to dip and helping the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Melt the Chocolate
While your peanut butter balls chill, place the chocolate melting wafers and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir and repeat in short bursts until the chocolate is perfectly smooth. Adding coconut oil helps to achieve that glossy finish and silky texture.
Step 7: Dip and Set
Retrieve the chilled peanut butter balls, and using a fork or dipping tool, dip each ball into the melted chocolate. Make sure they’re evenly coated, then carefully place them back onto your lined baking sheet. Once all are dipped, allow the chocolate shell to set at room temperature or pop them in the fridge to speed up the process.
How to Serve Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Balls (No Bake) Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the presentation and flavor by sprinkling your peanut butter balls with crushed peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or a light dusting of powdered sugar. A touch of sea salt over the chocolate coating can bring a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist.
Side Dishes
These no-bake treats pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a cup of hot coffee or tea. If serving at a party, consider offering fresh fruit or a simple vanilla yogurt dip alongside for a tasty balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Balls (No Bake) Recipe in pretty paper liners or stack them on tiered dessert trays for a charming display. You can even drizzle extra melted white chocolate or caramel on top for added flair and flavor layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to one week, making them a convenient treat ready whenever a sweet craving hits.
Freezing
Want to prepare these treats in advance? Lay the balls on a parchment-lined tray to freeze individually for an hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They will keep beautifully for up to three months, so you have scrumptious no-bake snacks anytime.
Reheating
No need to reheat these bites; just let them thaw at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. This keeps the chocolate shell intact and the peanut butter center perfectly soft and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of smooth?
Absolutely! Using chunky peanut butter will add even more texture to your rice krispie balls, giving each bite an extra nutty crunch. Just keep in mind the overall texture will be slightly different but just as delicious.
What if I don’t have coconut oil for the chocolate?
No worries at all! You can substitute coconut oil with vegetable oil or even a small amount of butter. These alternatives help smooth out the melted chocolate for easy dipping and a shiny finish.
Can I use a different cereal instead of Rice Krispies?
While Rice Krispies are classic for this recipe, feel free to experiment with other crispy cereals like cornflakes or puffed wheat. Just pick something light and crunchy to get that satisfying texture contrast with the creamy peanut butter.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes! This no-bake recipe is kid-friendly, simple to make, and perfect for little hands to help with mixing and rolling. Just be sure to watch the chocolate melting step if kids are involved.
How long does it take for the chocolate coating to set?
At room temperature, the chocolate coating usually sets within 20 to 30 minutes. Speed things up by placing them in the refrigerator—it only takes about 10 to 15 minutes to harden nicely.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a quick, no-fuss treat that’s both crunchy and creamy with a luscious chocolate kiss, you truly can’t go wrong with this Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Balls (No Bake) Recipe. It’s one of those perfect recipes you’ll want to keep coming back to again and again, whether for a sweet snack, a party treat, or a cozy moment of indulgence. Grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to smile with every bite!
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Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Balls (No Bake) Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 24 balls
Description
These no-bake Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are an indulgent treat featuring a crispy, creamy peanut butter and Rice Krispies center coated in a smooth chocolate shell. Perfect for quick, easy dessert lovers looking for a crunchy, sweet, and chocolatey snack without any baking.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Mixture
- 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or creamy)
- ¼ cup butter (at room temperature)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup crispy rice cereal (e.g., Rice Krispies or store brand)
Chocolate Coating
- 2 cups chocolate melting wafers or chocolate chips
- 1 Tablespoon coconut oil (optional, to thin chocolate; vegetable oil can also be used)
Instructions
- Prepare Peanut Butter Mixture: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat together the peanut butter and softened butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until fully incorporated and mixture is well combined.
- Add Rice Krispies: Gently stir in the crispy rice cereal ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the peanut butter mixture.
- Form Balls: Using a medium cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon), scoop the mixture and roll into approximately 1-inch diameter balls. Place each ball on a cookie sheet lined with parchment or wax paper. Repeat until all mixture is used.
- Chill: Transfer the tray of peanut butter balls to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes to firm up before dipping.
- Melt Chocolate: While the balls chill, place the chocolate melting wafers and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Dip the Balls: Remove chilled peanut butter balls from the fridge. Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, fully coating it. Place the coated balls back onto the lined baking sheet.
- Set and Serve: Allow the chocolate coating to set at room temperature or place back in the refrigerator briefly. Once set, the chocolate-covered peanut butter Rice Krispie balls are ready to enjoy!
Notes
- Use smooth or creamy peanut butter for the best texture.
- Crispy rice cereal adds the signature crunch; avoid puffed rice as it may be too soft.
- If chocolate is too thick for dipping, add a bit more coconut or vegetable oil to thin it.
- Store finished peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Feel free to customize the chocolate coating with dark or milk chocolate to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
