Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a delightful treat that combines creamy peanut butter and the crunch of rice krispies. These no-bake candies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual snacks. With their sweet and salty flavor, they’re sure to be a hit among family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires no baking, making it simple for anyone to whip up in just 30 minutes.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and crunchy rice krispies creates a satisfying texture and taste that everyone loves.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, parties, or as a sweet afternoon snack. They can also be customized with different toppings or add-ins.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will enjoy helping out in the kitchen, making it a fun family activity.
- Storage Friendly: These peanut butter balls can be stored in an airtight container, making them convenient for later enjoyment.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies is straightforward. Having the right tools on hand ensures a smooth process and great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop
- Microwave-safe bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Speeds up the mixing process, ensuring ingredients blend smoothly.
- Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of the bowl and mixing thick ingredients evenly.
- Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for chilling your peanut butter balls without sticking.
Ingredients
Peanut butter balls are taken to the next level by adding in the crunchy sweetness of rice krispies. This no bake candy recipe is sure to be a favorite for the holidays!
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)
How to Make Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Step 1: Mix Peanut Butter and Butter
Use a stand mixer or a hand mixer to combine the creamy no stir peanut butter and melted salted butter. Mix until well blended.
Step 2: Add Rice Krispies
Add the rice krispies cereal to the mixture. Stir gently until fully combined.
Step 3: Incorporate Powdered Sugar
Gradually add in the powdered sugar. Continue mixing until everything is thoroughly combined. When it becomes too tough to mix, switch to using a rubber spatula.
Step 4: Prepare Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier later.
Step 5: Form Peanut Butter Balls
Using a cookie scoop, drop portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Roll each portion into balls with your hands.
Step 6: Chill Mixture
Place the formed balls into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up before coating them in chocolate.
Step 7: Melt Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt your chocolate chips. Heat in short bursts, stirring until smooth.
Step 8: Dip Peanut Butter Balls
Once chilled, dip each rice krispies peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate. Ensure they are well coated before placing them back onto the baking sheet.
Step 9: Chill Again
Return coated peanut butter balls to the refrigerator until the chocolate hardens completely.
Step 10: Store Leftovers
Store any leftover peanut butter balls in an airtight container for several days at room temperature or freeze them for longer storage. Enjoy!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Peanut butter balls with rice krispies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply enjoying them at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
As a Sweet Snack
- These peanut butter balls make for a perfect afternoon snack, providing a quick energy boost with their rich flavor and crunch.
Party Platter
- Arrange the peanut butter balls on a decorative platter and serve them alongside fresh fruit and nuts for an eye-catching dessert table.
Gift Treats
- Package the peanut butter balls in festive tins or clear bags tied with ribbons. They make thoughtful gifts during holidays or special occasions.
With Ice Cream
- Serve these treats over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that combines creamy and crunchy textures.
At Breakfast
- Crumble some peanut butter balls over yogurt or oatmeal for a delicious breakfast option that adds sweetness and crunch.
For Movie Nights
- Enjoy peanut butter balls while watching your favorite films for a sweet and satisfying snack that everyone will love.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
To make the best peanut butter balls with rice krispies, consider these helpful tips for achieving optimal flavor and texture.
Choose quality ingredients: Use high-quality peanut butter and chocolate to enhance the overall taste of your treats.
Ensure even mixing: Mix thoroughly when combining the ingredients to ensure every bite is filled with flavor and crunch.
Use chilled hands: Keep your hands cool while rolling the balls. This helps prevent sticking and makes shaping easier.
Experiment with toppings: Try adding toppings like crushed nuts or sprinkles on top of the chocolate coating for added texture and visual appeal.
Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of powdered sugar based on your personal preference for sweetness.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Peanut butter balls are versatile and can be paired nicely with various side dishes. Here are some options to complement this sweet treat:
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to the richness of peanut butter balls.
Veggie Sticks: Crunchy carrots, celery, or bell peppers provide a crisp contrast, making them an excellent accompaniment.
Cheese Platter: Pairing cheese like cheddar or brie can create a delightful mix of flavors that balances sweetness with savory notes.
Trail Mix: A homemade trail mix featuring nuts, seeds, and dried fruits can enhance the crunchy texture experienced in each bite.
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels pairs beautifully with the sweet flavor of peanut butter balls, creating an irresistible combo.
Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars offer another chewy option that complements the crispy treats perfectly, making for great snack pairings.
Milkshakes: A rich chocolate or vanilla milkshake serves as a creamy drink option that enhances the dessert experience.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea provides a comforting beverage choice to enjoy alongside these delightful treats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making peanut butter balls with rice krispies can be simple, but a few common errors can spoil the fun. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling your peanut butter balls is crucial. If you skip this, they may not hold their shape when dipped in chocolate.
- Using the wrong type of peanut butter: Make sure to use creamy no-stir peanut butter. Natural varieties can make the mixture too oily or dry.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking! Use proper measuring tools for ingredients like powdered sugar and rice krispies.
- Overmixing the dough: Once the mixture comes together, stop mixing! Overmixing can lead to tough balls instead of soft and chewy ones.
- Not using parchment paper: Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Keep them in a cool, dark place in your fridge to maintain freshness.
Freezing Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
- Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, ensuring they are sealed tightly.
Reheating Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on low power for about 15-20 seconds at a time, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about peanut butter balls with rice krispies:
How do I make Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies healthier?
You can use natural peanut butter and reduce the sugar amount. Adding nuts or seeds can also boost nutrition.
Can I customize my Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even protein powder for extra flavor and nutrition.
How long do Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies last?
When stored properly, they last up to one week in the refrigerator and three months in the freezer.
What can I substitute for chocolate coating?
You can use white chocolate or yogurt-covered coating as alternatives. They will provide a different flavor profile but still taste great!
Final Thoughts
Peanut butter balls with rice krispies are a delightful treat that combines creamy peanut butter and crunchy cereal for a satisfying bite. They are versatile, allowing you to customize them with various mix-ins or coatings. Give this easy recipe a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!
Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies
Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a delightful no-bake treat that brings together the creamy richness of peanut butter and the satisfying crunch of rice krispies. Perfect for any occasion, these easy-to-make candy bites are not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you serve them at holiday gatherings or enjoy them as an everyday snack, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. Coated in melted chocolate and customizable with various toppings, these sweet bites offer a fantastic combination of textures and flavors. Whip up a batch in just 30 minutes for a quick indulgence that everyone will love!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
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
- In a mixing bowl, combine creamy peanut butter and melted butter until smooth.
- Gently fold in the rice krispies until evenly mixed.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until well combined; switch to a rubber spatula if needed.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and scoop portions onto it, rolling into balls.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl; dip each chilled ball into chocolate, then return to the baking sheet.
- Chill again until chocolate hardens.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball (30g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
