Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies Recipe

Introduction

These Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies Recipe are the perfect no-bake treat for any occasion. With a satisfying crunch and creamy peanut butter center, they come together in minutes with simple ingredients. If you love peanut butter desserts, try these Peanut Butter Blossoms or these Peanut Butter Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies for more delicious ideas.

Ingredients

These irresistible peanut butter balls with Rice Krispies combine creamy, nutty flavors with satisfying crunch, all wrapped in a rich chocolate coating that makes them impossible to resist.

• 1 cup crunchy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup margarine or butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups Kellogg’s Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	0 minutes
Total Time	15 minutes

Context: These Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are approximately 20% faster to prepare than similar no-bake recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients

Measure out 1 cup creamy peanut butter, ½ cup honey, 1 cup Rice Krispies cereal, and 1 cup powdered sugar. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and prevents the mixture from setting up while you search for ingredients.

Step 2 — Combine Wet Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and honey. Stir vigorously with a spatula until the mixture is completely smooth and well-blended. For easier mixing, you can gently warm the peanut butter for 15-20 seconds in the microwave.

Step 3 — Add Dry Ingredients

Add the powdered sugar and Rice Krispies to the peanut butter mixture. Fold gently to incorporate, being careful not to crush the cereal. The mixture will be thick and slightly crumbly but should hold together when pressed.

Step 4 — Chill the Mixture

Step 5 — Form the Balls

Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, portion the chilled mixture. Roll each portion firmly between your palms to form smooth, 1-inch balls. If the mixture becomes too soft and sticky, return it to the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes.

Step 6 — Optional Coating

For an extra treat, you can roll the formed Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies in additional crushed cereal, sprinkles, or melted chocolate. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet if adding a coating.

Step 7 — Final Chill to Set

Arrange all the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 30-60 minutes, or until firm. This final chill ensures they hold their shape and have the perfect texture.

Step 8 — Serve and Store

Once set, your Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, they freeze beautifully for up to three months.

Nutritional Information

Calories	180
Protein	5g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	11g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	95mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Protein powder instead of peanut butter — Use vanilla or chocolate protein powder mixed with Greek yogurt for a high-protein version with creamy texture
• Almond flour instead of Rice Krispies — Creates a lower-carb alternative with nutty flavor and maintains the crunchy texture
• Coconut oil instead of butter — Provides dairy-free option with subtle tropical notes that complements the peanut butter
• Oat flour instead of regular flour — Offers gluten-free alternative with heartier texture and mild oat flavor
• Unsweetened peanut butter — Reduces sugar content significantly while maintaining the classic peanut butter flavor
• Low-sodium peanut butter — Cuts sodium content dramatically for those monitoring salt intake
• Stevia instead of powdered sugar — Creates sugar-free version with zero calories while maintaining sweetness
• Chia seeds mixed with oats — Adds fiber and omega-3s while providing texture similar to Rice Krispies

Serving Suggestions

• Arrange on a festive platter for holiday cookie exchanges or parties
• Pack in lunchboxes for a sweet midday treat
• Serve alongside coffee or hot chocolate for an afternoon snack
• Offer as a no-bake dessert option at potlucks or picnics
• Display in mini cupcake liners for elegant individual portions
• Pair with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination

These Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are wonderfully versatile—their delightful crunch and sweet-salty flavor profile make them suitable for everything from casual snacking to special occasions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using natural peanut butter that separates. Fix: Opt for stabilized commercial peanut butter to prevent oily, loose dough.
• Mistake: Over-measuring honey or syrup. Fix: Precisely measure sticky liquids with a spritz of cooking spray on the measuring cup.
• Mistake: Adding Rice Krispies too early. Fix: Fold in cereal last to maintain maximum crunch and texture.
• Mistake: Skipping the chill time before rolling. Fix: Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to make handling easier and prevent misshapen balls.
• Mistake: Rolling balls that are too large. Fix: Use a small cookie scoop for uniform, bite-sized Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies.
• Mistake: Using warm melted chocolate for coating. Fix: Temper chocolate or let it cool slightly to avoid a thick, lumpy shell.
• Mistake: Storing finished balls at room temperature. Fix: Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain freshness and shape.
• Mistake: Not mixing ingredients thoroughly. Fix: Ensure the peanut butter and sweetener are fully combined before adding dry ingredients.
• Mistake: Rushing the setting process after dipping. Fix: Place dipped balls on parchment paper and chill until the chocolate coating is completely firm.
• Mistake: Substituting puffed rice for Rice Krispies. Fix: Use the specific cereal for the signature crisp texture in these Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store peanut butter balls with rice krispies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Thaw frozen peanut butter balls in the refrigerator overnight. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Always ensure your peanut butter balls with rice krispies are stored at or below 40°F (4°C) for food safety. For best texture, avoid repeated temperature changes.

Conclusion

These Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a simple, no-bake treat perfect for any occasion. If you love this combination, you might also enjoy our Reese’s Cheese Ball Recipe. We hope you try this recipe and share your results in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious dessert ideas!

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FAQs

Can I make Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage. They are a great make-ahead treat.

What can I use instead of Rice Krispies in this recipe?

You can substitute other crispy rice cereals for the Rice Krispies. For a different texture, try crushed cornflakes or puffed rice. The classic crunch of Rice Krispies is key to the texture of these Peanut Butter Balls.

How do I prevent my Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies from being too sticky?

Chilling the mixture before rolling helps reduce stickiness. If the mixture remains sticky, you can lightly wet or oil your hands. Using a cookie scoop also makes forming these Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies easier and less messy.