Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Balls: The Ultimate No-Bake Treat
When it comes to holiday treats and no-bake desserts, few recipes are as quick, easy, and delicious as Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Balls. These little bites of heaven combine the perfect mix of sweet, salty, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness—ideal for Christmas, cookie trays, or a year-round indulgence. If you’re a fan of classic peanut butter balls, you’re going to love this crispy, coconut-infused twist!
The creamy peanut butter, buttery richness, and crunchy Rice Krispies create a delightful texture, while chopped pecans and shredded coconut add a nutty depth and extra chewiness. Dipped in a smooth, velvety chocolate coating, these treats will disappear from your dessert table in no time!
Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Balls
No baking required – Perfect for quick and easy holiday prep.
Crunchy & creamy – The Rice Krispies add the perfect crunch, balancing the smooth chocolate and peanut butter.
Make-ahead friendly – These freeze beautifully, so you can prepare them in advance.
Perfect for gifting – A must-have on Christmas cookie trays or for homemade edible gifts!
Ingredients & Their Role in the Recipe
Each ingredient plays a key role in making these chocolate peanut butter balls absolutely irresistible:
- ½ cup peanut butter – The creamy, nutty base of the filling. Use smooth peanut butter for a soft texture, or opt for crunchy peanut butter for extra bite.
- 3 tablespoons soft butter – Adds a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 cup Rice Krispies – Provides the crispy crunch that makes these treats extra special.
- ½ cup chopped pecans – Gives a nutty, buttery contrast to the crispy texture.
- 1 cup shredded coconut – Adds a chewy, tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 1 package (12 oz) chocolate chips – Melts into a smooth, glossy coating.
- 1 square sweet chocolate (about 1 oz) – Helps balance the sweetness and makes the coating extra silky.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Balls
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, mix together:
- Peanut butter
- Softened butter
- Vanilla extract
- Rice Krispies
- Chopped pecans
- Shredded coconut
Stir until all ingredients are well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky but hold its shape when pressed together.
Step 2: Chill the Mixture
Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes (or longer). Chilling makes it easier to roll into balls without sticking to your hands.
Step 3: Roll into Balls
Once chilled, scoop out small portions (about 1-inch in diameter) and roll into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Return the balls to the fridge and let them chill for at least an hour before dipping in chocolate. This helps them hold their shape.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
Using a double boiler, melt together:
- Chocolate chips
- Sweet chocolate square
Keep the heat on low, stirring occasionally to ensure the chocolate stays smooth and doesn’t burn.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have a double boiler, you can melt the chocolate in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until fully melted.
Step 5: Dip the Balls in Chocolate
- Using a fork, dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate.
- Roll it around until fully coated.
- Lift it out, allowing excess chocolate to drip off.
- Place the coated balls on parchment paper or a wax-lined baking sheet.
Step 6: Let Them Set
Refrigerate the chocolate-covered balls until the chocolate is fully set and hardened (about 30 minutes).
Freezing Option: These freeze beautifully! You can freeze them before dipping in chocolate and coat them later, or freeze them fully coated for up to 3 months.
Pro Tips for Perfect Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls
Chill before rolling – Cold filling is much easier to work with and won’t stick to your hands.
Use a fork for dipping – This ensures the balls are evenly coated in chocolate without making a mess.
Don’t overheat the chocolate – Melt it slowly on low heat to keep it smooth and silky.
Customize the toppings – Before the chocolate sets, try sprinkling with:
- Crushed pecans
- Toasted coconut flakes
- A drizzle of white chocolate
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate peanut butter balls are perfect for:
- Holiday cookie platters – A festive addition to any Christmas spread.
- Gifting – Package them in a decorative tin or clear bag with a ribbon for a homemade gift.
- Everyday snacking – Keep a batch in the fridge for a quick sweet treat!
Conclusion: The Ultimate No-Bake Chocolate Treat
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Balls are everything you want in a no-bake dessert—creamy, crunchy, chocolatey, and irresistibly delicious. With a simple ingredient list and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. Whether you’re making them for Christmas, a party, or just because, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
So, grab your ingredients and start rolling—your next sweet and salty obsession is just a bite away!