These no-bake chocolate Rice Krispie balls are a quick and easy treat! Made with creamy peanut butter, semisweet chocolate, and a crispy cereal base, they’re perfect for parties, snacks, or satisfying sweet cravings. Ready in just 25 minutes, this simple recipe is a must-try for peanut butter and chocolate lovers alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-bake and super easy – Ready in just 25 minutes.
- Perfect texture – A crunchy, creamy, and chocolatey treat.
- Great for parties and gifting – Bite-sized and festive.
- Kid-friendly – Fun to make with little helpers.
- Customizable – Add sprinkles, drizzle with white chocolate, or roll in nuts.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- Sprinkles or additional powdered sugar for decoration
Directions
- Melt the Butter and Peanut Butter – In a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and peanut butter together. Stir until smooth.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine Rice Krispies cereal, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Combine Everything – Pour the melted peanut butter mixture over the Rice Krispies mixture and stir until well combined.
- Shape the Balls – Using a spoon or cookie scoop, shape the mixture into small balls (about 1-inch in diameter) and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
- Chill – Place the tray in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes to firm up.
- Melt the Chocolate – In a microwave or using a double boiler, melt the chocolate chips, stirring until smooth.
- Coat the Balls – Dip each Rice Krispie ball into the melted chocolate using a fork or toothpick, then place back on the tray.
- Decorate – Sprinkle with sprinkles or dust with powdered sugar before the chocolate sets.
- Let Set – Refrigerate for another 10 minutes until the chocolate hardens.
- Enjoy! – Serve immediately or store for later.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Crunchy Version – Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
- Healthier Option – Swap powdered sugar for honey or maple syrup.
- Nut-Free Alternative – Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
- Double Chocolate – Drizzle with white chocolate for a decorative touch.
- Extra Crunch – Roll the balls in crushed peanuts or shredded coconut before the chocolate sets.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freezing – Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Room Temperature – Can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days, but they may soften slightly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cereal?
Yes! You can try crushed cornflakes or puffed rice cereal as a substitute.
How do I prevent the chocolate from clumping?
Melt it slowly and stir frequently. Adding a teaspoon of coconut oil can help smooth it out.
Can I make these without powdered sugar?
Yes, you can use honey or maple syrup for a refined sugar-free version.
How do I keep the balls from sticking to my hands?
Lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray before rolling.
What’s the best way to coat the balls in chocolate?
Use a fork or toothpick to dip and tap off excess chocolate for an even coating.
Can I use white chocolate instead?
Yes! White chocolate adds a different flavor and looks great with sprinkles.
How long do these need to chill before eating?
About 10-15 minutes in the fridge, or until the chocolate sets.
Can I add mix-ins to the peanut butter mixture?
Absolutely! Try adding mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut.
Do these need to be refrigerated?
Yes, they hold their shape best when stored in the fridge.
Can I make these ahead of time for a party?
Yes! They are great for meal prep and can be made up to 3 days in advance.
Conclusion
Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Balls are a quick, delicious, no-bake treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re making them for a party, a snack, or a sweet tooth craving, these crunchy, peanut buttery bites coated in chocolate are the perfect indulgence. Try them today and enjoy the irresistible combination of chocolate and peanut butter!
Print
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These no-bake chocolate Rice Krispie balls are a quick and easy treat! Made with creamy peanut butter, semisweet chocolate, and crispy Rice Krispies, they have the perfect balance of crunchy, chewy, and chocolaty goodness. Great for parties, holiday trays, or just satisfying a sweet tooth, these bite-sized treats are ready in just 25 minutes!
Ingredients
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- Sprinkles or extra powdered sugar (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Melt & Mix – In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and peanut butter, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and salt.
- Add the Crunch – Stir in the Rice Krispies cereal, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Shape into Balls – Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, roll the mixture into bite-sized balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Melt the Chocolate – In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
- Dip & Decorate – Using a fork or toothpick, dip each Rice Krispie ball into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Place back on the baking sheet and top with sprinkles or extra powdered sugar if desired.
- Chill & Enjoy – Refrigerate for another 10 minutes or until the chocolate is set. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Swap semisweet chocolate for milk or dark chocolate based on preference.
- For a fun twist, mix in crushed pretzels or mini marshmallows for extra texture!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- chill time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snacks, No-Bake Treats
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
