Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate Rice Krispies – The 20-Minute No-Bake Sensation
If you’re searching for the ultimate easy no-bake dessert, these Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate Rice Krispies are going to be your new obsession. They’re everything you want in a sweet treat—creamy, crunchy, chocolatey, and totally irresistible. Even better, they come together in just 20 minutes with five simple ingredients.
This is the kind of chocolate peanut butter recipe that’s perfect for holidays, parties, or last-minute cravings. With the light crunch of Rice Krispies tucked inside, these no-bake peanut butter balls take the classic buckeye candy to a whole new level.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 5 Ingredients Only – Pantry staples you likely already have.
- Quick & No-Bake – From mixing to chilling, you’ll be enjoying them in 20 minutes.
- Perfect Texture – A creamy peanut butter base + crispy Rice Krispies + a chocolate shell.
- Kid-Friendly – A fun activity to make with kids (and no oven required).
- Gift-Worthy Treat – Package in pretty boxes for holidays or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or shortening (for thinning chocolate)
Optional Add-Ins & Variations
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (if using unsalted peanut butter)
- Crushed graham crackers (replace ½ cup powdered sugar)
- White or dark chocolate for dipping
- Flaky sea salt for garnish
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or sturdy spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Make the Peanut Butter Mixture
Beat peanut butter and softened butter together until smooth. -
Add the Sugar
Mix in powdered sugar until thick and crumbly. -
Add the Crunch
Fold in Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated. -
Shape into Balls
Roll into 1-inch balls (about 1 tbsp each) and place on a parchment-lined tray. -
Chill
Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up before dipping. -
Melt the Chocolate
Microwave chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. -
Dip and Coat
Using a fork, dip each chilled ball into melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. -
Set
Place dipped balls back on parchment. Sprinkle with flaky salt or Rice Krispies before chocolate sets. Chill 15 minutes.
Pro Tips for Success
- Chill Before Dipping – Cold peanut butter balls hold their shape better.
- Use a Fork for Dipping – Taps off excess chocolate for a smooth coating.
- Keep Chocolate Warm – Reheat in 15-second bursts if it thickens.
- Double the Batch – These vanish quickly at parties.
Serving & Pairing Ideas
- Serve on a holiday candy platter alongside fudge and truffles.
- Pair with hot coffee, milk, or spiced hot chocolate.
- Add to a dessert charcuterie board for parties.
Storage & Freezer Instructions
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 2 weeks.
- Room Temp: Keep for 2–3 days if your kitchen is cool.
- Freeze: Freeze in layers separated by parchment for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: My mixture is crumbly. What should I do?
Add a teaspoon of melted butter or milk until it comes together.
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes! It adds extra crunch along with the Rice Krispies.
Q: Can I make these ahead for parties?
Definitely! They taste even better after a day in the fridge.
Q: Can I skip the coconut oil?
Yes, but it helps create a smoother, shinier chocolate shell.
Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate Rice Krispies – No-Bake Dessert
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Beat peanut butter and butter until smooth.
- Mix in powdered sugar until thick.
- Fold in Rice Krispies.
- Roll into 1-inch balls. Chill 30 minutes.
- Melt chocolate with coconut oil.
- Dip balls in chocolate, tap off excess.
- Place on parchment to set. Chill 15 minutes before serving.
Notes