Name: Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons salted butter (softened); 2 cups crunchy peanut butter; 2 cups powdered sugar; 3 cups Rice Krispies; 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chocolate almond bark); 1 tablespoon butter flavored shortening

There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of peanut butter and chocolate. When you add a delightful crunch from Rice Krispies, you have a treat that’s hard to resist. Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or just a sweet pick-me-up during the week. With a few simple ingredients, you can create these delightful bites that are sure to please both kids and adults alike.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes this Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies recipe stand out is its simplicity and versatility. The crunchy texture of Rice Krispies adds a fun twist to the traditional peanut butter ball. Plus, the combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet chocolate creates a perfect balance of flavors. They’re no-bake, which means you can whip them up quickly without the need for an oven, making them an ideal treat for warm days or busy schedules.

What We’re Using

To make these delicious treats, we’ll need the following ingredients:

4 tablespoons salted butter – softened, to help bind the ingredients together.
2 cups crunchy peanut butter – for that rich, nutty flavor and texture.
2 cups powdered sugar – to sweeten the mixture and give it a nice, smooth consistency.
3 cups Rice Krispies – for that delightful crunch.
12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips – or chocolate almond bark, for coating the balls.
1 tablespoon butter flavored shortening – helps the chocolate melt smoothly and gives it a nice sheen.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before we dive into the recipe, make sure you have these tools handy:

Mixing bowl – for combining all the ingredients.
Rubber spatula – to mix everything together smoothly.
Baking sheet – lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl – for melting the chocolate.
Cookie scoop or small ice cream scoop – to portion out the peanut butter mixture evenly.

Make Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies: A Simple Method

Now, let’s get started on making these delicious Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies!

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened salted butter and crunchy peanut butter. Mix them together until well blended and creamy.

Step 2: Add the Sugar

Gradually add the powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until it’s fully incorporated. The mixture will start to thicken, but that’s exactly what we want!

Step 3: Incorporate the Rice Krispies

Gently fold in the Rice Krispies until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This will give your peanut butter balls that delightful crunch.

Step 4: Form the Balls

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, portion out the mixture and roll it into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Chill the Balls

Once all the balls are formed, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.

Step 6: Melt the Chocolate

While the peanut butter balls are chilling, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chocolate almond bark) with the butter flavored shortening. You can do this in a double boiler or in the microwave, melting in 30-second increments until smooth.

Step 7: Coat the Balls

Remove the peanut butter balls from the refrigerator. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Use a fork to lift them out, allowing any excess chocolate to drip off.

Step 8: Set the Coated Balls

Place the chocolate-coated balls back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat the process until all the balls are coated.

Step 9: Chill Again

Return the baking sheet to the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to let the chocolate set completely.

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize your Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies, here are some swaps you can consider:

Peanut butter alternatives: Use almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor.
Chocolate options: Dark chocolate or white chocolate can be used instead of semi-sweet chocolate.
Sweeteners: For a healthier option, consider using maple syrup or honey, adjusting the amount for consistency.
Rice Krispies alternatives: Try using granola or crushed nuts for a different texture.

What I Learned Testing

During the testing of this Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies recipe, I discovered a few key points:

The balance of the ingredients is crucial; too much powdered sugar can make the balls overly sweet, while not enough can make them difficult to hold together.
Chilling the mixture before rolling helps prevent the balls from becoming too sticky, making them easier to handle.
Coating them in chocolate not only enhances the flavor but also helps keep them from drying out.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare), Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze incredibly well. Just layer them between parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply take them out and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Common Questions

Can I make these peanut butter balls vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use vegan chocolate chips to make them vegan-friendly.

How can I make these peanut butter balls healthier?

Consider using natural peanut butter, reducing the amount of powdered sugar, or adding protein powder to the mixture for a nutritious boost.

What can I use instead of Rice Krispies?

You can use any crispy cereal, granola, or even crushed pretzels for a different texture in your Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add mini chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even shredded coconut to the mixture for extra flavor and texture.

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Save & Share

If you enjoyed making these Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies, don’t forget to share the love! Post your creations on social media, tag your friends, and spread the joy of these delicious treats. Your friends and family will thank you for introducing them to such a delightful snack.

Making Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy. Whether you’re whipping them up for a special occasion or just for yourself, these treats are sure to bring a smile to your face. Happy snacking!