Some recipes just have a way of sticking with you, don’t they? This one holds a special place in my heart—not only because it’s ridiculously easy to make, but because it has that nostalgic, homemade charm that makes you feel like a kid sneaking treats from the kitchen. These chocolate peanut butter balls are one of those desserts that look fancy enough to gift but are wonderfully simple to throw together.
I first learned about these little gems from a family gathering, where Joe’s relative brought a tray of them to share. They didn’t last long. Everyone kept going back for “just one more,” and I was no exception. What really stood out to me was how the peanut butter filling had just the right balance of creamy and crunchy, and the chocolate coating wasn’t overly sweet. I had to get the recipe.
Fast forward to now, and I make these year-round—not just for holidays. They’re the perfect treat to whip up for a baby shower, a bake sale, or even a regular Sunday afternoon when you need something special. If you’re a peanut butter and chocolate fan (who isn’t?), this recipe is going to be your new best friend.
What You’ll Need
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened for easy melting)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (the smooth variety works best, but use what you love!)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but it adds a nice touch)
- 3 cups powdered sugar (adjust to taste; I prefer it on the moderate side)
- 2 cups crispy rice cereal (Rice Krispies or any crisped rice cereal of your choice)
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening (important for a smooth, glossy finish)
How to Make Them
Step 1: Start with the Peanut Butter Mixture
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s fully melted, stir in the vanilla extract (if using) and then add the peanut butter. A little tip: spray your measuring cup with nonstick spray before scooping the peanut butter—makes cleanup so much easier!
Stir the butter and peanut butter mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. If it looks a little thick, you can gently heat it for another minute or two. The goal is to have a silky, pourable consistency. (source:Ineskohl.info)
Step 2: Mix It All Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar and crispy rice cereal. Take a moment to break up any clumps in the powdered sugar—this will help everything mix evenly.
Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Now, this part might feel like it’s never going to come together, but don’t worry—it will. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything thoroughly. The peanut butter mixture will gradually coat the sugar and cereal, forming a sticky dough.
If it feels too sticky to handle, you can refrigerate the mixture for about 10 minutes to firm it up slightly before forming the balls.
Step 3: Roll Into Balls
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. Using a small scoop or teaspoon, portion out the mixture and gently roll it into balls with your hands. If the mixture starts sticking to your hands, dip your fingers in a little water—it makes rolling so much easier.
Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet. They don’t have to be perfectly round; the homemade look is part of their charm. Once all the balls are formed, refrigerate them for at least two hours, or overnight if you’re planning ahead.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
While the peanut butter balls are chilling, melt the chocolate chips and vegetable shortening together. You can do this in the microwave in 15-second increments (stirring between each round) or over a double boiler. The shortening helps the chocolate stay smooth and gives the coating a shiny finish once it sets.
Step 5: Dip the Balls
Take the chilled peanut butter balls out of the fridge. Using two forks, gently dip each ball into the melted chocolate, making sure it’s fully coated. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing the ball back onto the parchment-lined sheet.
If you’re feeling fancy, you can sprinkle a little flaky sea salt or crushed peanuts on top before the chocolate sets.
Step 6: Let Them Set
Once all the balls are coated, place the tray back in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to let the chocolate harden.
A Few Tips
- Texture Matters: The crispy rice cereal adds the perfect crunch to balance the creamy peanut butter filling. Don’t skip it—it’s what makes these so special.
- Storage: Store the finished balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully; just let them thaw for a few minutes before serving.
- Gifting Idea: Arrange these in mini cupcake liners and place them in a box for a thoughtful homemade gift. They’re perfect for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, or as party favors.
Why You’ll Love Them
What makes these chocolate peanut butter balls so irresistible is the combination of flavors and textures. The peanut butter filling is rich and creamy, with just the right amount of crunch from the cereal. The chocolate coating adds a bittersweet contrast that ties everything together.
These are exactly the kind of treat that makes people ask, “Did you make these yourself?” And trust me, when you see how quickly they disappear, you’ll know they’re a hit.
So go ahead, give these a try. They’re simple enough to make on a whim but special enough to feel like a treat. Let me know how they turn out—I love seeing your creations!
