A crunchy, chocolate-coated peanut butter treat that combines creamy filling with crispy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe gives me the best of both worlds — the rich, comforting flavor of peanut butter and chocolate, plus a satisfying snap from the Rice Krispies. It’s no-bake, easy to make ahead, and always a crowd pleaser.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Peanut butter (creamy)
Unsalted butter, softened
Vanilla extract
Powdered sugar
Rice Krispies cereal (crispy rice)
Semi-sweet chocolate (for coating)
Optional: vegetable shortening or coconut oil (to thin the chocolate)
Directions
In a mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth.
Stir in vanilla extract.
Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fully incorporated and the mixture is firm enough to shape.
Fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly distributed.
Shape the mixture into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each) and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill the balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Meanwhile, melt the chocolate (with a bit of shortening or coconut oil if desired) until smooth.
Dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate to coat, allowing excess chocolate to drip off.
Place coated balls back onto parchment and allow the chocolate to set (you can refrigerate to speed this).
Servings and timing
Makes about 24 to 36 balls (depending on size)
Prep time: ~20 minutes
Chill / set time: ~30 to 60 minutes
Total time: ~1 hour (including chilling)
Variations
Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for extra texture.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top after dipping in chocolate.
Use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or a mix for coating.
Swap part of the Rice Krispies for crushed nuts or toasted coconut.
For dairy-free: use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate.
Storage/Reheating
Store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for up to 1 week.
If you want to freeze them, place them in a single layer on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container; thaw in the fridge before serving.
FAQs
How can I keep the chocolate from cracking when coated?
Make sure the peanut butter balls are well chilled before dipping. Also, adding a small amount of shortening or coconut oil to the chocolate helps it set more smoothly without becoming too brittle.
What if the peanut butter mixture is too sticky to roll?
If it’s too sticky, gradually add more powdered sugar or more Rice Krispies until it’s firm enough to handle. Chilling it before rolling also helps.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
You can, but natural peanut butter tends to be more oily or runny, which may make the mixture softer and harder to shape. A more stable creamy peanut butter works better.
Can I skip the Rice Krispies?
Yes — the recipe becomes a classic peanut butter ball (or “buckeye” style) without them. But the Rice Krispies add a fun crunch and lighter texture.
How long will these keep at room temperature?
Because of the chocolate coating and peanut butter base, I prefer to keep them chilled. At room temperature in a cool environment, they might last a day or two, but refrigeration is safer to maintain texture and prevent spoilage.
Conclusion
These Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate Rice Krispies are a fun, no-bake treat that I make when I want a combination of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey flavors. They travel well, are great for gifting, and always disappear fast — I hope you enjoy making and sharing them as much as I do.
These Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate Rice Krispies are a no-bake treat that combines creamy peanut butter, crispy rice cereal, and a smooth chocolate coating—perfect for gifting, snacking, or dessert trays.
