Best Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Balls

Why You’ll Love Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Balls Recipe

These Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Balls are everything you want in a treat: simple, delicious, and quick to make. There’s no baking involved, which means less fuss and less time in the kitchen. The creamy peanut butter combined with the crispy cereal adds irresistible texture, while the chocolate coating gives them that perfect sweet finish. These treats also store well, making them perfect for gifting or prepping ahead of events. Plus, they’re easy to customize based on your taste or dietary preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups creamy or crunchy peanut butter

• ½ cup salted butter, softened

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 3½ cups Rice Krispies cereal

• 20 ounces chocolate melting wafers

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

2. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing until a smooth dough forms. For a finer texture, sift the powdered sugar beforehand.

3. Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, making sure it’s evenly mixed throughout the peanut butter mixture.

4. Using a medium cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

5. Chill the peanut butter balls in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to help them firm up.

6. Melt the chocolate melting wafers in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring in between until fully melted and smooth.

7. Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely. Let any excess chocolate drip off before returning the ball to the baking sheet.

8. Optional: Before the chocolate sets, top with sprinkles or chopped peanuts for added flair.

9. Let the chocolate coating set completely at room temperature, or refrigerate for quicker results.

10. Once the chocolate is firm, transfer the treats to an airtight container and store in the fridge.

Servings and timing

Makes about 25 peanut butter balls
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: Approximately 200 kcal per ball

Variations

• Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter in place of peanut butter.

• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate.

• Extra Crunchy: Add chopped peanuts or crushed pretzels to the mixture.

• Sweet Toppings: Roll the chocolate-coated balls in crushed graham crackers, shredded coconut, or colored sugar before the chocolate sets.

• White Chocolate Coating: Swap dark or milk chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter twist.

• Mini Size: Make bite-sized versions by using a smaller scoop.

• Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of sea salt or a dash of cinnamon to the peanut butter mixture.

• Protein Boost: Stir in a few scoops of protein powder to the peanut butter mix.

• Festive Touch: Use colored sprinkles or drizzle with contrasting chocolate for seasonal flair.

• No Chocolate: Skip the chocolate coating entirely for a less sweet, more snack-like treat.

Storage/Reheating

Store the Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving. Reheating is not necessary, but if you’d like to enjoy them slightly softer, you can leave them out for a few minutes before eating.

FAQs

How do I keep the peanut butter balls from falling apart?

Make sure the mixture is well combined and chilled before dipping in chocolate. Chilling helps the balls hold their shape.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but be sure to stir it well to incorporate the oil. Natural peanut butter can sometimes be runnier, which may make the mixture softer.

What type of chocolate is best for coating?

Chocolate melting wafers or candy coating are ideal because they melt smoothly and set quickly. You can also use semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips with a little coconut oil.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. These treats are perfect for making ahead and storing in the fridge or freezer.

Do I have to refrigerate them?

Yes, refrigeration helps them stay firm and fresh, especially since they contain butter and peanut butter.

Can kids help make these?

Yes! This is a great no-bake recipe for kids. They can help roll the balls, dip in chocolate, and add toppings.

Why is my mixture too sticky to roll?

If the mixture is too sticky, try adding a bit more powdered sugar or chilling it for 10–15 minutes before rolling.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. This recipe scales well, making it great for parties, gifts, or holiday trays.

How long does it take for the chocolate to set?

At room temperature, it can take about 30 minutes. In the refrigerator, the chocolate sets in 10–15 minutes.

Are these gluten-free?

Rice Krispies cereal contains malt flavoring, which has gluten. To make this recipe gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal.

Conclusion

Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Balls are a quick and satisfying no-bake dessert that hits all the right notes—sweet, salty, creamy, and crunchy. They’re easy enough for everyday snacking yet fancy enough for festive occasions. With endless variation possibilities and kid-friendly steps, this recipe is a must-try treat for any peanut butter lover.

Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Balls

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Delightful no-bake treats combining creamy peanut butter, crispy rice cereal, and a rich chocolate coating, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: About 25 balls
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 cups creamy or crunchy peanut butter
• ½ cup salted butter, softened
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3½ cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 20 ounces chocolate melting wafers

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the mixture is smooth. If the powdered sugar is clumpy, consider sifting it before adding.
3. Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. Using a medium cookie scoop or your hands, portion out the mixture and roll into balls approximately 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up.
6. Melt the chocolate melting wafers in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring between each until fully melted and smooth.
7. Dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the ball back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Optionally, garnish the tops with sprinkles or chopped peanuts before the chocolate sets.
9. Let the chocolate coating set completely at room temperature or refrigerate for faster setting.
10. Once set, store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Notes

• You can use either creamy or crunchy peanut butter depending on your texture preference.
• Sifting the powdered sugar can help achieve a smoother mixture.
• To make dipping easier, use a toothpick or fork to hold the balls.
• These treats can be frozen for longer storage.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 ball
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 5mg