Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are the perfect combination of sweet, crunchy, and creamy. These delightful treats are simple to make at home and are ideal for the holidays, an after-school snack, party desserts, or anytime you crave a chocolate and peanut butter indulgence.
What Makes These Treats So Special?
If you love Rice Krispie treats and peanut butter candies, this recipe is the best of both worlds. These Peanut Butter Balls are a twist on the classic, combining the light crunch of Rice Krispies with the rich, creamy texture of peanut butter and the decadence of a chocolate coating.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Exact measurements can be found in the printable recipe card below.)
• Creamy Peanut Butter – Smooth peanut butter works best, but crunchy peanut butter can add extra texture if you prefer.
• Butter – Regular salted butter is recommended for the best flavor.
• Powdered Sugar – This adds sweetness and helps form a dough-like consistency. Be sure to avoid granulated sugar, as it won’t work well in this recipe.
• Rice Krispies Cereal – Slightly crush the cereal before mixing it in for a perfect texture.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Semi-sweet chocolate is easy to work with and has a great balance of sweetness. You can use other chocolates, but keep in mind that white and milk chocolate are more sensitive to heat and may burn easily.
• Vegetable Shortening – This helps create a smooth, glossy texture for the melted chocolate, making it perfect for dipping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in the Rice Krispies until evenly combined.
- Shape the Balls
Roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm them up.
- Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and vegetable shortening. Heat for 1 minute, stir, and then continue heating in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Dip the Peanut Butter Balls
Using a fork or dipping tool, coat each chilled ball in the melted chocolate. Place them back on the baking sheet and refrigerate until the chocolate sets.
Optional: Drizzle extra melted chocolate over the top for decoration. You can use a contrasting chocolate (like white chocolate) for an elegant look.
Serving and Storage Tips
• Serving: These treats are firm when chilled but can be softened by letting them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
• Storage: Store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Creative Gift Packaging Ideas
These candies are perfect for gifting! Here’s how to make them extra special:
• Gift Box: Line a small box with parchment paper, fill it with candies, and tie it up with a ribbon for a thoughtful gift.
• Festive Mug: Place the treats in a pretty mug along with hot cocoa packets or a gift card. Wrap it in clear cellophane and secure it with a bow.
• Holiday Tin: Use a cookie tin lined with parchment paper for a classic presentation. Add a handwritten note for a personal touch.
• Decorative Plate: Arrange the candies on a decorative plate, wrap in cellophane, and tie with a bow. Be sure to let the recipient know the plate is part of the gift!
Enjoy these Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies as a sweet snack, festive treat, or heartfelt gift! They’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a simple and delicious homemade candy, perfect for holidays, parties, or whenever you crave a sweet chocolate and peanut butter treat.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 33 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup softened butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal slightly crushed
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
Line a baking sheet with parchment or waxed paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, and powdered sugar until smooth.
Mix in the Rice Krispies until well combined.
Roll the mixture into small bite-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and shortening. Heat for 1 minute, stir, and then continue microwaving in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
Dip the chilled peanut butter balls into the melted chocolate, coating them completely. Return them to the baking sheet.
Chill the chocolate-coated balls until the chocolate is firm.