Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Balls! They hold a special place in my heart because they were a favorite treat during my childhood. I remember my mom whipping them up for us after school, and the smell of peanut butter mingling with that buttery-sweet marshmallow was just heavenly. Now that I’m married and have my own little family, I love making them with my partner—it’s such a fun, simple way to share a sweet moment together!
These little bites are crunchy, chewy, and oh-so-satisfying. Each ball is infused with creamy peanut butter and mixed with Rice Krispies, giving them that perfect little snap! They come together in no time, so they’re great for last-minute snacks or if you’re looking for something easy to whip up for a gathering. Plus, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike! If you’re looking for another sweet treat to pair with these, my no-bake chocolate oatmeal cookies are another favorite you might enjoy. Happy snacking!
Why You’ll Love This Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Balls Recipe
- Deliciously creamy peanut butter flavor in every bite
- Simple ingredients that you probably already have at home
- No baking required—perfect for quick treats!
- Quick to make with only a few easy steps
- Customizable toppings like sprinkles or crushed peanuts for fun!
- Freezes well for make-ahead snacks or treats
- Perfect for kids and adults—everyone loves a sweet, crunchy bite!
These no-bake treats bring together the satisfying crunch of Rice Krispies and creamy peanut butter, making them a perfect snack for any occasion!
How to Make Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Balls
If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s super easy to whip up and perfect for snacking, these Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Balls are just the thing! They’re no-bake, require minimal ingredients, and are sure to satisfy that sweet tooth.
What You’ll Need:
- Rice Krispies cereal – 3 cups. I love the classic crispy texture they provide!
- Creamy peanut butter – 1 cup. Pick your favorite brand; I like Jif for its smoothness!
- Powdered sugar – 1/2 cup. It helps bind everything and adds sweetness!
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon. A splash of pure vanilla really elevates the flavor!
- Semisweet chocolate chips – 1 cup, for coating. Ghirardelli is my go-to for rich, melty chocolate.
- Vegetable oil – 1 tablespoon (optional, for melting chocolate). It helps achieve a smoother texture.
- Sprinkles or crushed peanuts – for garnish. These are optional, but they add a fun, festive touch!
The Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well blended and smooth.
- Gradually add the Rice Krispies cereal to the peanut butter mixture, stirring gently to ensure that the cereal is evenly coated without crushing it.
- Use your hands to form the mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each ball.
- Once all the balls are formed, pop them into the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up. This step is key for easy dipping later!
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips together with the vegetable oil (if using) in 30-second intervals. Stir in between each interval until the chocolate is completely smooth.
- Remove the frozen peanut butter balls from the freezer. Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, fully coating them, then place them back on the lined baking sheet.
- While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle with your choice of crushed peanuts or sprinkles to give them a little extra flair!
- Allow the chocolate-coated peanut butter balls to set at room temperature, or you can refrigerate them until the chocolate hardens completely.
- Once set, dig in and enjoy these delightful Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Balls!
And if you have any leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Happy snacking!
Can I Use Crunchy Peanut Butter Instead of Creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture to your Rice Krispie Balls. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the creaminess of the mixture. If you like a bit of crunch, go for it!
How Do I Store Leftover Peanut Butter Balls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep them fresh, you can also place parchment paper between layers if stacking them. This prevents them from sticking together.
Can I Use Milk Chocolate Instead of Semisweet Chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor profile! Just melt them in the same way as you would semisweet chocolate. Keep an eye on them while melting, as milk chocolate can burn more quickly.
What Can I Use Instead of Sprinkles for Garnish?
If you’d prefer something different, consider using crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or even mini chocolate chips for garnish. They all add a fun twist and complement the flavors well!
