Classic No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls with a Crunch
If you’re looking for a fast, festive, and crowd-pleasing treat, peanut butter balls with Rice Krispies are the perfect solution. These no-bake peanut butter candies combine creamy richness with a light, crispy texture for a delightful bite-sized dessert. Ideal for Christmas, potlucks, cookie swaps, or anytime you’re short on time but still want something homemade and memorable.
This recipe uses just a handful of pantry staples—including peanut butter, powdered sugar, and Rice Krispies—to create a soft yet crunchy center. They’re dipped in melted chocolate, forming a satisfying shell that contrasts beautifully with the tender, chewy middle. You can leave them plain, roll them in sprinkles, or add a festive drizzle of white chocolate for extra flair.
What makes these treats stand out is their nostalgic flavor and effortless prep. Unlike baked desserts that require precision and timing, these no-bake peanut butter rice krispie balls are practically foolproof. They’re also incredibly adaptable for allergies or preferences—swap peanut butter with sunflower butter or mix in crushed pretzels or graham crackers for a twist. These treats regularly show up in Christmas cookie swaps and holiday candy ideas because they’re easy to make in large batches and store beautifully in the fridge or freezer.
Whether you’re planning a dessert tray or looking for a fun activity with kids, this no-bake peanut butter candy recipe is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This no-bake peanut butter balls with Rice Krispies recipe is a staple for a reason—it hits all the right notes of flavor, texture, and simplicity. With just a few ingredients and no oven time, these crunchy, creamy candies are the go-to choice for last-minute desserts, edible gifts, or sweet party snacks.
One of the biggest reasons these treats stand out is their versatility. You can serve them plain, dress them up with sprinkles, or dip them in different kinds of chocolate. They’re easily adaptable for various occasions, making them a favorite across Pinterest boards like no bake Christmas treats and Christmas candy ideas. Whether you want to make them festive with holiday colors or keep them classic with a smooth chocolate coating, this recipe delivers.
You’ll also love that they’re:
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Quick to make – Just mix, roll, chill, and dip.
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Kid-friendly – Great for little hands to help with rolling and decorating.
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Freezer-friendly – Make ahead and store for up to 3 months.
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Crunchy and creamy – Thanks to the balance of peanut butter, cereal, and chocolate.
Perfect for holiday trays, school parties, or a sweet late-night bite, these peanut butter balls are a no-fuss candy recipe that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients Breakdown with Substitutions
The beauty of these peanut butter Rice Krispie balls lies in their simplicity. Every ingredient plays a key role in creating that creamy, crunchy, and rich flavor profile. Plus, each component is easy to swap or customize based on dietary needs or pantry availability. Here’s a full breakdown of what you’ll need—and what you can substitute.
Peanut Butter
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1 cup creamy peanut butter gives these balls their soft texture and signature nutty flavor.
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You can use chunky peanut butter if you prefer extra texture.
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Want a nut-free version? Try sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter for a similar consistency without the allergens.
For context, explore how peanut butter works in candy and no-bake recipes—it binds ingredients while adding moisture and richness.
Unsalted Butter
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¼ cup softened unsalted butter adds creaminess and helps bind the mixture.
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You can substitute with vegan butter or even coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
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Make sure it’s soft (not melted) so it blends smoothly without making the mix greasy.
Vanilla Extract
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1 teaspoon boosts the flavor by adding a warm, aromatic note.
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You could substitute with maple extract or almond extract for a slight twist, depending on your flavor preference.
Powdered Sugar
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1½ cups powdered sugar sweetens the mix and helps firm up the dough so it can be rolled into balls.
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Want to reduce sugar? Use a 1:1 powdered monk fruit sweetener or erythritol blend.
This classic combo of sugar and peanut butter creates a fudgy base that holds its shape once chilled—ideal for forming consistent bite-sized candies.
Rice Krispies Cereal
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1½ cups Rice Krispies cereal gives the balls their signature crunchy texture.
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Gently fold it in to keep the crispiness intact.
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Alternatives include puffed quinoa, cornflakes, or Rice Krispies-style gluten-free cereal if needed.
The addition of crispy cereal gives these treats a fun texture contrast—soft inside with just the right amount of snap.
Chocolate Chips
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2 cups chocolate chips are used for dipping—choose semi-sweet, milk, or dark depending on your taste.
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For an extra glossy finish and smoother dipping, melt them with 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening.
For ideas on chocolate types and how to melt them properly, explore the characteristics of chocolate used in candy-making.
These basic ingredients come together to form a soft, moldable dough that hardens just enough after chilling. With the crunchy cereal inside and a smooth chocolate shell outside, this dessert is a textural dream—and easy to tweak with ingredients you have on hand. Recipes like this one often appear on holiday candy ideas and peanut butter dessert bars boards because they offer flavor and fun in every bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Peanut Butter Mixture
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In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup creamy peanut butter, ¼ cup softened unsalted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
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Stir until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer for easier blending if needed.
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Gradually add 1½ cups powdered sugar, stirring until the mixture becomes thick and forms a dough-like consistency.
Add the Crunch
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Gently fold in 1½ cups Rice Krispies cereal, being careful not to crush them. The cereal should be evenly distributed, giving the mixture a crunchy texture without making it too loose.
This combination creates a moldable dough that’s easy to roll and keeps its shape after chilling—one of the reasons it’s so popular on boards like no bake Christmas treats. The soft base balances with the crispiness of Rice Krispies for that perfect bite.
Roll and Chill
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Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls using your hands.
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Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Refrigerate the tray for 30 minutes or until the balls are firm.
This chilling step helps the balls hold together when dipping in warm chocolate. Without it, the mixture may fall apart or melt into the coating.
Melt and Dip in Chocolate
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In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 2 cups chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother texture).
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Heat in 20–30 second intervals, stirring after each, until fully melted and glossy.
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Dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the chocolate using a fork or skewer.
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Let the excess drip off, then return the coated ball to the parchment paper.
If you prefer not to dip fully, you can drizzle chocolate over the top or coat only halfway for visual contrast. These methods are often seen in Christmas candy ideas for decorative flair.
Set and Serve
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Let the chocolate harden at room temperature or speed things up by placing the tray back in the fridge.
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Once set, store them in an airtight container, layering parchment between rows to prevent sticking.
They’re now ready to enjoy, gift, or freeze for later!
Customization & Fun Variations
These no-bake peanut butter balls with Rice Krispies are endlessly versatile. You can adjust the ingredients or toppings to fit any occasion or preference:
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Use crunchy peanut butter for added nutty bits inside.
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Make clusters instead of rolling—just drop spoonfuls onto a tray for a rustic version.
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Add sprinkles or crushed candy canes to the wet chocolate for a holiday touch.
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Drizzle with white or colored candy melts for themed parties or events.
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Mix in mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or crushed pretzels to the dough for extra flavor and texture.
Explore more ideas on holiday candy boards or find similar spins on peanut butter dessert bars that play with texture, flavor, and presentation.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
These treats are perfect for making in advance. Here’s how to store them properly:
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
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Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer or separate with parchment.
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Serving: Let frozen balls sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for best texture.
Avoid stacking unchilled balls—they’ll stick and lose their coating. To maintain quality, store in a cool space, especially if you’re including them in edible gift boxes or cookie platters.
Storing tips like these are key to keeping candies and no-bake treats looking and tasting fresh.
Serving Suggestions for Holidays & Parties
These peanut butter Rice Krispie balls shine on dessert tables and holiday trays. Try these ideas to serve them in style:
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Place them in mini cupcake liners for a polished presentation.
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Add to cookie exchange platters alongside bars and fudge.
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Serve with hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy pairing.
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Include them in holiday candy tins with tissue paper layers.
For a festive touch, coordinate the chocolate drizzle or sprinkles to match your theme, as seen in Christmas cookie swaps and holiday candy ideas.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these issues to get perfect results every time:
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Using melted butter instead of softened can make the mixture greasy.
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Skipping the chilling step will make it hard to dip or shape the balls.
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Overmixing the cereal can crush the Rice Krispies and ruin the texture.
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Overheating the chocolate can cause it to seize or become grainy.
Follow the steps carefully and use high-quality ingredients to keep your candies smooth, crisp, and crowd-ready.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but natural varieties tend to be oilier and looser. Chill the mixture before rolling to help them hold their shape, or stir well to reincorporate any separated oil.
Can I skip the chocolate coating?
Absolutely. Roll the balls in crushed nuts, sprinkles, cocoa powder, or just enjoy them plain for a less sweet version.
Can I make these nut-free?
Yes. Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter for a safe alternative that still delivers a creamy base.
Can I freeze peanut butter balls?
Definitely. They freeze beautifully. Store in an airtight container with parchment layers, and thaw in the fridge or at room temp before serving.
How long do they last?
These treats will last up to 2 weeks refrigerated and up to 3 months frozen, making them great for planning ahead.
Do I have to use Rice Krispies?
No. You can substitute with puffed quinoa, crushed graham crackers, or even cornflakes if you want to change the texture while keeping that satisfying crunch.
Best Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies No Bake Crunchy Candy
Description
These Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a no-bake favorite featuring a creamy, sweet peanut butter base and crispy cereal crunch, all coated in smooth melted chocolate. Perfect for holidays, parties, or sweet snacking, they come together in minutes with just a handful of pantry staples. Chill, dip, and decorate for the ultimate no-bake candy treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 2 cups chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother melting)
Instructions
- Combine peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl and mix until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar and stir until fully combined.
Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly distributed.
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Refrigerate the balls for about 30 minutes or until firm.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil (if using), stirring every 20-30 seconds until smooth.
Dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate and coat fully.
Place the coated balls back on the parchment paper and let them set at room temperature or refrigerate until chocolate hardens.
Notes
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Chill before dipping to keep the balls from falling apart.
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Use parchment paper to prevent sticking during prep and storage.
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Customize toppings for any occasion—sprinkles, drizzle, or crushed candy.
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Make them in bulk and freeze for a ready-to-serve treat anytime.
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Pair with other candies or cookies on dessert boards for variety.
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Store chilled in airtight containers for freshness and shape retention.
