Introduction

These Peanut Butter Balls are a delightful no-bake treat that combines creamy peanut butter, crunchy rice krispies, and a smooth chocolate coating. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing at gatherings, they’re easy to make and irresistibly delicious.

A white bowl filled with several round chocolate-covered peanut butter balls, each coated with a smooth dark brown chocolate layer with slight swirls and shine on the surface. On top, two peanut butter balls are cut in half, showing three main layers: a thin, shiny dark chocolate outer shell; underneath, a thick, light tan peanut butter and oats filling with a slightly crumbly texture; and the base also covered in chocolate, supporting the filling. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface, with soft natural lighting highlighting the chocolate’s gloss and the crunchy texture inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup creamy no stir peanut butter
3 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
1 cup powdered sugar
2 ½ cups rice krispies cereal
12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chocolate melting wafers)

Instructions

Step 1: Use a stand mixer or hand mixer to combine the peanut butter and melted butter until smooth.
Step 2: Add the rice krispies cereal and mix until evenly combined.
Step 3: Stir in the powdered sugar until the mixture starts to thicken.
Step 4: When the mixture becomes too stiff for the mixer, use a rubber spatula to finish mixing thoroughly.
Step 5: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for shaping the balls.
Step 6: Use a cookie scoop to portion out the mixture onto the lined baking sheet.
Step 7: Roll each portion into a smooth ball with your hands, then place the tray in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to chill and firm up.
Step 8: Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in short bursts, stirring until smooth and fully melted.
Step 9: Dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated, then return to the lined baking sheet.
Step 10: Chill the dipped balls in the refrigerator until the chocolate is firm.
Step 11: Store any leftover peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several days or freeze for longer storage.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, add chopped peanuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets.
Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for a different texture.
Substitute semi-sweet chocolate with milk or dark chocolate depending on your preference.
If you prefer a sweeter treat, increase the powdered sugar by ¼ cup.

Storage

Store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for several weeks. To enjoy after freezing, thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. Reheating is not necessary as they are best served chilled.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of chocolate-covered peanut butter balls. The candy has two main layers: a thick, smooth dark chocolate outer layer with swirled texture and shine, and a crumbly, golden peanut butter filling inside. One piece is cut in half and placed on top of whole peanut butter balls below it, showing the dense filling well. The background is a white marbled texture, and the photo is focused to highlight the rich texture of both the chocolate and peanut butter layers. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these peanut butter balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and chill the peanut butter balls ahead of time. Keep them refrigerated or frozen until ready to dip in chocolate or serve.

What can I use if I don’t have rice krispies cereal?

You can substitute rice krispies with other puffed rice cereals or crushed crackers to maintain the crunchy texture, though the flavor may vary slightly.