Irresistible No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Balls

Get ready to elevate your dessert game with these incredible Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies! This recipe takes the beloved classic peanut butter buckeyes and introduces a fantastic textural element with the simple addition of crispy rice cereal. The result is a delightful bite that’s both creamy and crunchy, all encased in a smooth chocolate shell. If you’re a fan of the iconic pairing of chocolate and peanut butter, prepare to fall in love with this irresistible twist.

The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is a culinary match made in heaven, celebrated for its rich, sweet, and slightly savory balance. It’s no wonder this duo is a staple in countless desserts. For more treats featuring this winning flavor profile, be sure to explore our classic no-bake cookies, luscious chocolate peanut butter fudge, crowd-pleasing peanut butter cup cookies, or the ever-popular peanut blossom cookies.

One of the best things about these chocolate peanut butter balls is that they are a true no-bake dessert. While you’ll need your microwave to melt the chocolate, there’s no oven required, making them perfect for busy holidays or warm weather when you want to avoid heating up your kitchen. They’re quick to prepare, incredibly easy to make, and promise a satisfying crunch in every mouthful, setting them apart from traditional smooth buckeyes.

Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies piled high in a bowl. The top one is cut in half to show creamy peanut butter filling with crunchy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No-Bake & Easy: Skip the oven and enjoy a simple, straightforward recipe perfect for all skill levels.
Irresistible Texture: The addition of Rice Krispies cereal provides a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the creamy peanut butter filling and smooth chocolate coating.
Classic Flavor Combo: Chocolate and peanut butter are a match made in heaven, making these balls a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for Holidays: A fantastic addition to Christmas candy platters, cookie exchanges, or festive dessert tables, offering a unique crunchy option.
Great for Gifting: Package these sweet treats in decorative boxes or cellophane bags for a thoughtful homemade gift during the holiday season or any special occasion.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with different toppings or chocolate variations to suit your taste.

These delightful treats are not only a fantastic dessert for family gatherings but also a classic Christmas treat. Their festive appeal and ease of preparation make them a perfect Christmas candy recipe to include on your holiday cookie trays or expansive dessert table spreads. Imagine the joy of seeing these beautifully chocolate-dipped, crunchy peanut butter balls shimmering alongside your other festive confections!

Beyond personal indulgence, they also make a terrific gift during the holidays. Thoughtfully arrange a few of these sweet peanut butter and chocolate creations in a small box, a charming cellophane bag, or a decorative tin. They are guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone who receives them.

Chocolate Rice Krispies Peanut Butter Balls drizzled with white chocolate on a lined baking sheet.

Ingredients for Crunchy Peanut Butter Balls

This section provides detailed ingredient notes, tips for best results, and substitution options. You can find all precise measurements, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions in the printable recipe card located at the end of this post.

Ingredients in bowls on countertop: powdered sugar, creamy peanut butter, vegetable shortening, vanilla extract, crispy rice cereal, chocolate and vanilla almond bark, and a stick of butter.

Creamy Peanut Butter: For this recipe, I highly recommend using a conventional creamy peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) rather than natural peanut butter. Natural peanut butter often has a runnier consistency due to oil separation, which can make your peanut butter balls too soft and difficult to shape and hold their form. Conventional peanut butter offers the ideal texture for these no-bake treats. I personally used Jif No Sugar Added, but any creamy, conventional brand will work beautifully.
Unsalted Butter: Stick to unsalted butter to maintain control over the overall salt content of your dessert. Since peanut butter can be quite salty on its own, unsalted butter ensures your treats are perfectly balanced in flavor. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy blending with the peanut butter.
Vanilla Extract: High-quality pure vanilla extract will significantly enhance the flavor of your peanut butter filling. If you only have imitation vanilla on hand, you might want to increase the amount slightly (up to 2 teaspoons) to achieve a comparable depth of flavor.
Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this fine sugar provides a smooth texture to the peanut butter mixture without any grittiness. For best results, it’s crucial to sift the powdered sugar before measuring and adding it to prevent lumps and ensure a perfectly smooth consistency in your peanut butter balls.
Rice Krispies Cereal: Any brand of crispy rice cereal will work wonderfully here. The Rice Krispies are the star for adding that irresistible crunch. For those looking to make a gluten-free version, several brands like Nature’s Path, Barbara’s, and One Degree offer excellent gluten-free crispy rice cereals that can be used as a direct substitute.
Chocolate Almond Bark: I prefer using almond bark for coating these treats because it melts incredibly smoothly and is much easier to work with than many regular chocolates, resulting in a beautiful, glossy finish without tempering. However, if you prefer, melting chocolate wafers or even high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips (with a bit of added shortening/coconut oil) can be used as alternatives.
Coconut Oil or Vegetable Shortening: A small amount of either coconut oil or vegetable shortening is essential for achieving a perfectly smooth, fluid chocolate coating. It helps the chocolate melt more evenly, coats the peanut butter balls more easily, and gives them a lovely sheen once set.
Vanilla Almond Bark: This is an optional ingredient, primarily used for drizzling over the finished chocolate-dipped balls to add an extra touch of visual appeal and a hint of vanilla flavor. White chocolate chips or white melting wafers can also be used.

Recipe Variations & Customizations

These crunchy peanut butter balls are wonderfully versatile! Here are some creative ways to customize them:

Double the Chocolate Flavor: For an even richer chocolate experience, try making your crispy peanut butter balls with cocoa krispies cereal instead of regular Rice Krispies. This adds a subtle chocolate note to the filling itself!
Adjust the Crunch Factor: If you prefer a slightly less pronounced crunch, you can gently crush the Rice Krispies cereal a bit before folding them into the peanut butter mixture. This gives a finer, more integrated texture.
Sprinkle with Fun: Skip the vanilla almond bark drizzle and add vibrant sprinkles to your chocolate-dipped peanut butter balls instead! Red and green sprinkles are absolutely perfect if you’re making these as festive Christmas treats, or use any color to match your party theme.
Nutty Additions: For an extra layer of flavor and texture, roll the chocolate-dipped balls in finely chopped peanuts, pecans, or walnuts before the chocolate sets.
Sea Salt Finish: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the wet chocolate coating before it sets can beautifully enhance the sweet and savory notes of the peanut butter and chocolate.
Different Coatings: Experiment with different types of chocolate for dipping, such as milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even a blend. You could also tint white chocolate with food coloring for a fun, colorful batch.

Essential Kitchen Supplies

Having the right tools makes the process of creating these delicious treats even smoother and more enjoyable. You will need the following kitchen supplies:

Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients, ensuring the perfect consistency.
Large baking sheet: Essential for arranging the peanut butter balls during chilling and dipping.
Parchment or wax paper: To line the baking sheet, preventing sticking and making cleanup a breeze.
Mixing bowls and spoons: For combining ingredients and melting chocolate. A medium bowl for the peanut butter mixture and a microwave-safe bowl for the chocolate are ideal.
Hand-held mixer: Makes quick work of beating the peanut butter and butter together, creating a smooth base.
Cookie scoop: I used a medium/1.5 Tablespoon sized scoop, which helps create uniform balls, making them look professionally made and ensuring even portion sizes.
Fork: A dinner fork is surprisingly effective for dipping the peanut butter balls into chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off easily.
Piping bag or plastic bag with corner cut: For neatly drizzling the optional vanilla almond bark.

How to Make Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies: Step-by-Step

This section walks you through the entire process of making these crunchy chocolate peanut butter balls with helpful step-by-step photos and detailed instructions. For the complete printable recipe, including exact quantities and nutritional information, please refer to the recipe card found below.

Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture

Begin by lining a large baking sheet with either parchment paper or wax paper, and set it aside. This will be where your formed peanut butter balls will chill. In a medium mixing bowl, use a hand-held mixer to beat together the creamy peanut butter and the softened unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Next, mix in the vanilla extract, ensuring it’s evenly distributed for a rich flavor. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating it in until fully incorporated and the mixture forms a soft, pliable dough. Finally, switch to a rubber spatula and gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal. Be careful not to crush them too much, as you want to preserve their delightful crunch!

Peanut Butter Ball Mixture with Rice Krispies in a mixing bowl, ready to be rolled.

Shape and Chill the Balls

Using a cookie scoop (a 1.5 Tablespoon size works perfectly for bite-sized treats) or your clean hands, shape the peanut butter mixture into small, uniform balls. Place them onto the prepared lined baking sheet, leaving a small space between each. Once all the peanut butter balls are rolled, it’s crucial to chill them thoroughly. Pop the baking sheet into the freezer for 15-30 minutes, or if you prefer, chill them in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This chilling step is vital as it helps the balls firm up, making them much easier to dip in chocolate without falling apart.

Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Balls on a lined baking sheet, chilled and ready for chocolate coating.

Melt the Chocolate Coating

Break the chocolate almond bark into squares and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of coconut oil or vegetable shortening to the bowl. Heat the mixture in your microwave in short bursts: 30-second increments at 50% power. After each increment, remove the bowl and stir the chocolate thoroughly. Continue this process until the chocolate is completely melted and beautifully smooth, without any lumps. Stirring frequently prevents scorching and ensures an even melt.

Dip and Chill

Using a fork, gently dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate mixture. Roll the ball around in the chocolate to ensure it’s fully coated on all sides. Lift the ball with the fork, gently tapping the fork against the side of the bowl to allow any excess chocolate to drip off. This creates a neat and even coating. Carefully transfer the chocolate-coated peanut butter ball back onto the lined baking sheet. Repeat this process for all the balls. Once all the peanut butter balls have been dipped in chocolate, immediately place the baking sheet back into the freezer or refrigerator to chill and set the chocolate while you prepare the optional vanilla almond bark.

Crispy peanut butter balls on a lined baking sheet, with half already coated in melted chocolate.

Add Optional Drizzle

If you’re adding a decorative drizzle, break up the vanilla almond bark and combine it with the remaining 1 teaspoon of coconut oil or vegetable shortening in a separate microwave-safe bowl. Heat this mixture in 30-second increments at 50% power, stirring diligently after each interval, until it is completely melted and smooth. Once melted, work quickly! Transfer the warm, melted vanilla almond bark into a piping bag or a small plastic bag with one corner snipped off. Drizzle the vanilla chocolate artfully over the top of each chilled, chocolate-coated peanut butter ball. This adds a beautiful finishing touch.

Rice Krispie Buckeyes drizzled with White Chocolate on a baking sheet, ready to set.

Final Chill and Enjoy!

Return your beautifully decorated sweet peanut butter treats to the refrigerator immediately after drizzling. Allow them to chill until the chocolate coating and drizzle are completely set and firm. This usually takes about 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator. Once fully set, they are ready to be served and enjoyed! Prepare for compliments!

Pro Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Balls

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is genuinely at room temperature. This will help it cream smoothly with the peanut butter, preventing lumps and ensuring a uniform mixture.
Sift Powdered Sugar: Don’t skip sifting the confectioners’ sugar! This removes any small lumps, guaranteeing a silky-smooth peanut butter filling.
Chill Thoroughly: The chilling steps are non-negotiable. Cold peanut butter balls hold their shape better during dipping, preventing them from melting or crumbling in the warm chocolate.
Melt Chocolate Carefully: When melting the almond bark (or chocolate), use low power and stir frequently. Chocolate can seize or burn easily if overheated. Adding coconut oil or shortening helps maintain a smooth, dippable consistency.
One at a Time Dipping: Dip one ball at a time, ensuring a complete coating. Use a fork to lift and gently tap off excess chocolate to avoid thick, clumpy layers.
Work Efficiently for Drizzle: If adding a drizzle, have your melted vanilla almond bark ready and work quickly, as it sets faster than you might think!

Storage Instructions

To maintain their optimal texture and freshness, these delightful Rice Krispie peanut butter balls should be stored properly. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. This keeps the chocolate firm and the peanut butter creamy with the perfect crunch. For longer storage, see our FAQ section on freezing.

Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls on a white plate with one cut in half to show creamy peanut butter and crunchy rice cereal inside.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use another nut butter?

While I haven’t personally tested this recipe with other nut butters, I believe it would be possible to use them. However, be aware that many natural nut butters tend to be runnier than conventional peanut butter. If you opt for another nut butter, you will likely need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar to help the mixture achieve the right consistency to hold its shape. Start by adding an extra tablespoon of powdered sugar and gradually add more if needed until the mixture is firm enough to easily roll into balls. Almond butter or cashew butter could offer interesting flavor variations!

Do I need to keep these rice krispie peanut butter balls chilled?

Yes, I highly recommend keeping these delicious treats chilled for the best possible texture and to maintain their firm shape. Although they are safe to eat if left out at room temperature for a short period, the chocolate coating, peanut butter filling, and butter will likely soften significantly. This can result in a softer, mushier ball that might not be as enjoyable. Chilling ensures a firm, creamy, and crunchy bite every time.

How long can these be left out at room temperature?

The amount of time these peanut butter balls can safely be left out at room temperature depends largely on the ambient temperature of your room. While they are generally safe to eat at room temperature for a couple of hours, their texture will definitely change as they warm up. The chocolate and peanut butter mixture will become much softer. As a general rule, they can typically be left out for an hour or two. Just keep a close eye on them; if they start to feel too soft, simply pop them back into the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to firm them back up before serving again.

Can you freeze peanut butter balls with rice krispies?

Absolutely! These peanut butter balls are excellent for freezing. Once the chocolate coating is completely set and firm, you can transfer the rice krispie peanut butter balls to an airtight, freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours, or at room temperature for about 30 minutes, until they reach your desired eating consistency.

What if my chocolate seizes?

Chocolate seizes (becomes thick and clumpy) if it comes into contact with even a tiny drop of water or is overheated. To prevent this, ensure all your bowls and utensils are completely dry. When melting, use short bursts in the microwave at 50% power and stir thoroughly after each. If it does seize, sometimes you can rescue it by stirring in a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening at a time, until it becomes smooth again, though it might not be as glossy.

Bowl of chocolate covered rice krispies balls, ready to be enjoyed.

More Tasty Holiday Treats

If you’re looking for more delicious recipes to fill your holiday dessert table or simply satisfy your sweet cravings, explore these other fantastic options:

Crockpot Candy – An incredibly easy, hands-off recipe requiring only 4 simple ingredients!
Microwave Nut Brittle – Achieve perfect brittle in minutes with this convenient microwave method.
Sugar Cookie Truffles – Decadent truffles made from crushed sugar cookies, a festive delight.
Christmas Crack – A dangerously addictive saltine cracker toffee bark that’s perfect for sharing.
Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats – Another easy no-bake favorite featuring the classic peanut butter and crispy rice combo.
Sugar Cookie Christmas Fudge – Sweet, colorful, and melt-in-your-mouth fudge, perfect for the season.
Christmas Pretzel Hugs – A delightful sweet and salty treat made with only 3 ingredients!
Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies – A timeless cookie recipe with that classic crosshatch pattern.
Christmas Snowball Cookies – Buttery, nutty, and dusted with powdered sugar, these melt in your mouth.

Recipe

Peanut Butter Ball with Rice Krisipes cut in half to show crunchy texture.

Recipe

4.66 from 23 votes

Peanut Butter Balls With Rice Krispies

Author: Jaclyn

Prep:

20 minutes

Chill Time

15 minutes

Total:

35 minutes

Peanut butter balls with Rice Krispies take traditional buckeyes and give them the perfect bit of crunch and texture with the addition of crispy rice cereal, all coated in smooth chocolate.

Servings:

3 dozen

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Ingredients

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1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
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6 Tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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1 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar sifted
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2 ½ cups Rice Krispies cereal
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10 ounces chocolate almond bark
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2 teaspoons coconut oil or vegetable shortening divided
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5 ounces vanilla almond bark

Instructions

Line a large baking sheet with parchment or wax paper and set aside.
In a medium bowl, use a hand-held mixer to beat together the peanut butter and butter until smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract, followed by the sifted powdered sugar until a dough forms. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold in the crispy rice cereal.
Using a cookie scoop (or your hands), shape the mixture into small, uniform balls and place them on the lined baking sheet. Once all the balls are rolled, place them in the freezer for 15-30 minutes, or in the refrigerator for at least one hour, until firm.
Break the chocolate almond bark into squares and add to a microwave-safe bowl. Add in 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening. Heat the mixture in 30-second increments at 50% power, stirring between each increment, until completely melted and smooth.
Use a fork to dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate mixture, rolling it around to cover all sides. Let the excess chocolate drip off before carefully transferring the peanut butter ball back onto the baking sheet. When all of the peanut butter balls have been dipped, place them in the freezer or refrigerator to chill and set while you prepare the vanilla almond bark (if using).
Break up the vanilla almond bark and add it, along with the remaining 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening, into another microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second increments on 50% power, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
Working quickly, place the melted vanilla almond bark in a piping bag or a plastic bag with the corner cut off and drizzle decoratively over the top of the balls.
Return the peanut butter balls to the refrigerator until completely set, about 15-30 minutes. Then serve and enjoy!

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days for best texture.

To prep ahead, prepare the peanut butter balls mixture up to step 3 (shaping and chilling) then chill in the refrigerator overnight. Finish dipping and decorating the next day.

Nutrition

Serving:
1
g

|

Calories:
169
kcal

Peanut Butter Ball with Rice Krisipes cut in half to show creamy peanut butter and crunchy texture.

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We hope you thoroughly enjoy making and sharing these delightful No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Balls. Their perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures, combined with the timeless appeal of chocolate and peanut butter, makes them a dessert that everyone will adore. Whether for a holiday gathering, a special gift, or simply a sweet indulgence, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your collection. Happy baking (or rather, no-baking)!