Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies

Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a scrumptious and easy-to-make treat that combines creamy peanut butter, crunchy Rice Krispies, and rich chocolate. These no-bake bites are perfect for any occasion, from holiday parties to everyday snacking. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Powdered Sugar
• 1/2 cup Softened Butter
• 2 cups Rice Krispies Cereal
• 1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter
• 1 package (12 ounces) Chocolate Candy Coating
• Muffin Paper Cups (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, softened butter, and creamy peanut butter. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
2. Add Rice Krispies: Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, making sure the cereal is evenly distributed throughout the peanut butter mixture. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 2: Shape the Peanut Butter Balls

1. Form Balls: Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, shape the peanut butter mixture into 1-inch balls. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Chill: Once all the balls are formed, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the peanut butter balls to firm up.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Coating

1. Melt Chocolate: While the peanut butter balls are chilling, melt the chocolate candy coating according to the package instructions. You can melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in the microwave or in a double boiler on the stove.
2. Stir: Stir the melted chocolate until it is smooth and free of lumps.

Step 4: Coat the Peanut Butter Balls

1. Dip Balls: Remove the peanut butter balls from the refrigerator. Using a fork or a dipping tool, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, making sure it is completely coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the ball back on the parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
2. Decorate (Optional): If you wish, you can sprinkle some crushed Rice Krispies, sprinkles, or a drizzle of white chocolate over the chocolate-coated peanut butter balls for added decoration.

Step 5: Set the Chocolate

1. Chill Again: Once all the peanut butter balls are coated in chocolate, place the baking sheet back in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate has fully set.

Step 6: Serve

1. Transfer to Muffin Cups (Optional): For a neat presentation, you can place each peanut butter ball in a muffin paper cup.
2. Enjoy: Serve the peanut butter balls straight from the refrigerator. They make a delicious treat for any occasion and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Balls:

• Consistency: If the peanut butter mixture is too sticky to handle, you can add a little more powdered sugar to achieve the desired consistency.
• Chilling: Chilling the peanut butter balls before dipping them in chocolate helps them hold their shape and makes them easier to coat.
• Dipping: To avoid fingerprints on the chocolate coating, use a fork or a dipping tool to dip the peanut butter balls into the melted chocolate.
• Storage: Store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and maintain their texture.

Variations:

• Crunchy Peanut Butter: Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture.
• Different Coatings: Try using white chocolate or dark chocolate candy coating for a different flavor.
• Add-Ins: Mix in some chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or dried fruit into the peanut butter mixture for added flavor and texture.

Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate with the satisfying crunch of Rice Krispies. These no-bake bites are perfect for any occasion and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Try making them today and enjoy the delicious combination of textures and flavors. Happy cooking!