Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a delightful treat that combines the creamy goodness of peanut butter with the crunchy texture of rice krispies. Perfect for any occasion, these no-bake treats are quick to prepare and will surely impress family and friends. Their rich flavor and satisfying crunch make them a favorite for holidays and gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With only a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious treats in no time.
- No Baking Required: Skip the oven! These peanut butter balls come together effortlessly without any baking.
- Versatile Treats: Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a sweet snack at home. They can be made ahead of time for convenience.
- Kid-Friendly Recipe: Little ones can help in the kitchen, making this a fun family activity that everyone will enjoy.
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and rice krispies creates an irresistible taste and texture.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop
- Microwave-safe bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Makes mixing the ingredients easy and ensures a smooth consistency.
- Rubber Spatula: Great for scraping down sides of bowls and mixing in ingredients thoroughly without damaging them.
- Baking Sheet: Provides a sturdy base for setting your peanut butter balls as they chill.
Ingredients
Peanut butter balls are taken to the next level by adding in the crunchy sweetness of rice krispies. This no bake candy recipe is sure to be a favorite for the holidays!
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy no stir peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 ½ cups rice krispies cereal
- 12 oz Semi sweet chocolate chips (or chocolate melting wafers)
How to Make Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Step 1: Mix Peanut Butter and Butter
Use a stand mixer or hand mixer to combine the creamy no stir peanut butter and melted butter. Blend until smooth.
Step 2: Add Rice Krispies
Add the rice krispies cereal to the mixture. Stir until combined evenly.
Step 3: Incorporate Powdered Sugar
Gradually add in the powdered sugar. Mix until well incorporated. When it becomes difficult to mix, switch to using a rubber spatula to combine everything thoroughly.
Step 4: Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Scoop Peanut Butter Mixture
Using a cookie scoop, drop portions of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Shape into Balls
Roll each portion into balls using your hands. Place them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to chill and firm up.
Step 7: Melt Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Heat in intervals until smooth.
Step 8: Dip Peanut Butter Balls
Dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate. Ensure they are fully coated before placing them back onto the baking sheet.
Step 9: Chill Until Firm
Return the dipped balls to the fridge until the chocolate is firm.
Step 10: Store Leftovers
Store any leftover peanut butter balls in an airtight container for several days or freeze them for longer storage.
Enjoy making these delicious Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Peanut butter balls with rice krispies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
As a Snack
- Perfect for midday cravings, these peanut butter balls provide a satisfying crunch and creamy texture.
At Holiday Gatherings
- Serve them on a festive platter during parties or family gatherings for a sweet treat everyone will love.
With Coffee or Tea
- Pair these treats with your favorite hot beverage for a delightful afternoon snack that balances sweetness with warmth.
As a Gift
- Package the peanut butter balls in decorative boxes or jars to give as gifts. They make a thoughtful and delicious present.
On Dessert Tables
- Include them on dessert tables at celebrations like birthdays or weddings, adding variety alongside other sweets.
With Ice Cream
- Top your ice cream sundaes with crushed peanut butter balls for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
To achieve the best texture and flavor for your peanut butter balls, consider these tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your peanut butter and chocolate chips are fresh for optimal taste.
- Adjust sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of powdered sugar based on your sweetness preference.
- Chill thoroughly: Allowing the balls to chill in the fridge helps firm them up, making them easier to dip in chocolate.
- Experiment with toppings: Try rolling some in crushed nuts or sprinkles after dipping for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
- Try different nut butters: Substitute peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for unique flavors while maintaining the same texture.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Pairing side dishes with your peanut butter balls can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that balances the sweetness of the candy.
- Cheese Platter: Offer a variety of cheeses that complement the rich flavors of the peanut butter.
- Vegetable Crudités: Crisp veggies served with dip provide a crunchy contrast to the soft, sweet balls.
- Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the treats.
- Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side dish that contrasts nicely.
- Mini Muffins: Serve a selection of mini muffins, such as banana or blueberry, for varied textures and flavors.
- Ice Cream Sundaes: Create a sundae bar where guests can top their ice cream with crushed peanut butter balls.
- Granola Bars: Offer homemade granola bars as an alternative snack that complements the candy’s flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making peanut butter balls with rice krispies, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Incorrect Peanut Butter Choice: Using natural peanut butter can lead to a dry mixture. Stick with creamy no stir peanut butter for the best texture.
Rushing the Mixing Process: Don’t skip the step of mixing thoroughly. Ensure all ingredients are well combined for consistent flavor and texture.
Skipping the Chill Time: Failing to chill the balls can result in a gooey mess. Always let them firm up in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Improper Chocolate Melting: Overheating chocolate can make it seize. Melt it gradually in the microwave and stir frequently for smooth results.
Neglecting Storage Guidelines: Leaving peanut butter balls out can lead to spoilage. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer as needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store peanut butter balls in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
- Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first.
- Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds until slightly warm.
- Stovetop: Place on low heat in a pan, flipping gently until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding peanut butter balls with rice krispies.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture but may change the consistency slightly.
How can I customize peanut butter balls with rice krispies?
Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for different flavors and textures!
What is the best way to dip them in chocolate?
Use a fork or toothpick for easy dipping, allowing excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back on the tray.
How long do leftovers last?
When stored properly, leftovers can last about one week in the fridge or up to three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
Peanut butter balls with rice krispies offer a delightful blend of crunchy and creamy textures that everyone loves. This versatile treat is perfect for any occasion and allows for customization based on your preferences. Try adding your favorite mix-ins or toppings today!
Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a delightful no-bake treat that brings together the creamy richness of peanut butter and the satisfying crunch of rice krispies. These easy-to-make snacks are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just a sweet indulgence at home. With minimal prep time and no baking required, you can whip up a batch quickly and impress your family and friends. Coated in chocolate and packed with flavor, these treats are sure to become a favorite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy no-stir peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 ½ cups rice krispies cereal
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (or melting wafers)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine creamy peanut butter and melted butter until smooth.
- Stir in rice krispies until evenly mixed.
- Gradually add powdered sugar; use a rubber spatula to mix thoroughly.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop portions of the mixture onto the prepared sheet, rolling them into balls.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth.
- Dip each chilled ball into melted chocolate and return to the baking sheet.
- Refrigerate again until the chocolate is firm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball (30g)
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
