Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of peanut butter with the satisfying crunch of rice krispies. This no-bake candy recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or simply a sweet snack at home. With their sweet and salty taste, these peanut butter balls are sure to become a favorite among family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious treats in no time.
- No Baking Required: Perfect for those hot days when you want a sweet treat without turning on the oven.
- Versatile Flavor: Customize your peanut butter balls with various toppings or mix-ins for different flavors.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These tasty bites are always a hit at gatherings and make great gifts!
- Quick Prep Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy them almost instantly.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies, gather the essential tools and equipment. Having the right tools will make your preparation easier and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing ingredients together.
- Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface to place your peanut butter balls as they chill.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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!
For the Base
- 1 cup creamy no stir peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 ½ cups rice krispies cereal
For Coating
- 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 salted butter. Blend until smooth.
Step 2: Add Rice Krispies
Add rice krispies cereal, mixing until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Incorporate Powdered Sugar
Gradually add in the powdered sugar, continuing to blend until mixed thoroughly.
Step 4: Use Spatula for Final Mixing
When it becomes too hard to mix with the machine, switch to using a rubber spatula. This will help combine everything evenly.
Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Scoop Peanut Butter Mixture
Using a cookie scoop, drop small portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step 7: Shape into Balls
Roll each portion into small balls using your hands. Once shaped, place them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to chill and firm up.
Step 8: Melt Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips until smooth.
Step 9: Dip Peanut Butter Balls
Carefully dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate. Make sure they are fully coated before placing them back onto the baking sheet.
Step 10: Chill Again
Return the dipped peanut butter balls to the fridge until the chocolate coating is firm.
Step 11: Store Leftovers
Store any leftover peanut butter balls in an airtight container for several days or freeze them for longer storage.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Peanut butter balls with rice krispies make for a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
Pair with Milk
- A classic pairing that enhances the sweet and salty flavor of peanut butter balls. Choose whole milk or almond milk for a creamy contrast.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Serve with sliced bananas or strawberries for a refreshing touch. The fruit’s natural sweetness complements the peanut butter perfectly.
Use as Topping
- Crumble peanut butter balls over ice cream or yogurt to add crunch and flavor. This makes for an indulgent dessert.
Create Snack Platters
- Arrange peanut butter balls with assorted nuts and dried fruits for a festive snack platter. This is perfect for gatherings or movie nights.
Drizzle with Honey
- A light drizzle of honey on top adds an extra layer of sweetness. This works well if you enjoy a sweeter treat.
Serve at Parties
- These bites are great finger foods for parties. Place them on decorative trays for an appealing presentation.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
To ensure your peanut butter balls turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
Use quality ingredients: High-quality peanut butter and chocolate will enhance the flavor of your treats significantly.
Chill before dipping: Make sure the balls are firm before dipping them in chocolate. This helps maintain their shape and prevents them from falling apart.
Experiment with toppings: Consider rolling the peanut butter balls in crushed nuts, sprinkles, or coconut flakes before chilling for added texture and flavor.
Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of powdered sugar slightly to suit your taste.
Store properly: Keep leftover peanut butter balls in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
While delicious on their own, peanut butter balls can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance your overall snack experience. Here are some great options:
Veggie Sticks: Crunchy carrots and celery sticks provide a refreshing crunch that contrasts well with the richness of the peanut butter balls.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as cheddar or brie, pairs nicely with the sweetness of the treats and offers a savory balance.
Popcorn: Lightly salted popcorn adds another crunchy element that is easy to prepare and enjoy alongside these sweet bites.
Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the dense flavors of the peanut butter balls.
Chocolate Milkshake: This indulgent drink brings together all things chocolatey while complementing the flavors in your treat.
Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars can provide a chewy texture that pairs beautifully with crunchy peanut butter balls, making them great companions during snack time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making peanut butter balls with rice krispies is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.
Using natural peanut butter: Natural peanut butter can be too oily and may not hold the balls together well. Opt for creamy no-stir peanut butter for the best consistency.
Not chilling the mixture: Skipping the chilling step can lead to messy handling. Be sure to chill the peanut butter balls for at least 30 minutes to firm them up.
Overmixing with a mixer: While mixing is essential, overdoing it can make the mixture tough. Stop mixing once the ingredients are just combined, then finish by hand if needed.
Skipping parchment paper: Placing the balls directly on your baking sheet can cause them to stick. Always line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal.
Using chocolate chips without melting: Dipping cold balls into chocolate chips won’t work well. Ensure that you melt the chocolate until smooth before dipping.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store peanut butter balls in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to a week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen for several weeks without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5-10 minutes until slightly softened.
- Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds at a time until warm, being careful not to melt.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan on low heat, warming them briefly to maintain texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making peanut butter balls with rice krispies that you might find helpful.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to your peanut butter balls with rice krispies!
How do I know when they are fully chilled?
The balls should feel firm to the touch after chilling in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
What if I don’t have chocolate melting wafers?
You can substitute with semi-sweet chocolate chips as an alternative; just make sure they are melted properly before dipping.
How long does it take to make these peanut butter balls?
The total preparation time is around 30 minutes, including chilling time.
Final Thoughts
Peanut butter balls with rice krispies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! You can customize them by adding different toppings or flavors like coconut or mini marshmallows. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a sweet treat that everyone will love!
Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a scrumptious and easy-to-make no-bake treat that perfectly blends the creamy richness of peanut butter with the delightful crunch of rice krispies. Ideal for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to casual gatherings, these treats are sure to impress family and friends. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up these sweet and salty bites that can be customized with various toppings or enjoyed as is. Whether you’re creating a festive platter or a simple snack at home, these Peanut Butter Balls are a delicious choice that will satisfy your cravings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 24 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 chocolate melting wafers)
Instructions
- In a stand mixer or using a hand mixer, blend the creamy peanut butter and melted butter until smooth.
- Gradually mix in the rice krispies until well combined.
- Add the powdered sugar gradually, blending until thoroughly mixed.
- Use a rubber spatula to finish mixing by hand if needed.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop small portions onto the sheet and roll into balls.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth.
- Dip each chilled ball into melted chocolate and return to the baking sheet.
- Chill again until the chocolate coating is firm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball (20g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
