Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Balls a crunchy, sweet, and packed with peanut butter goodness, these no-bake treats are quick to make and irresistibly delicious! With a perfect balance of crispy texture and nutty flavor, they are an easy-to-make snack that everyone will love.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup corn syrup
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup peanut butter (chunky preferred)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cereal:
4 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Directions
Prepare the Syrup: In a large saucepan, I combine the corn syrup and powdered sugar. Cooking over medium heat, I stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil.
Incorporate Peanut Butter: Removing the saucepan from heat, I stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Add Cereal: I gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, making sure every piece is evenly coated.
Form the Balls: After letting the mixture cool slightly, I shape it into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a wax-paper-lined baking sheet.
Set and Serve: Once they have cooled completely at room temperature and firmed up, I transfer them to an airtight container for storage.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 24 balls
Calories: 150 kcal per ball
Variations
Chocolate Drizzle: I sometimes drizzle melted chocolate over the balls for a richer flavor.
Nutty Mix: Adding chopped almonds, walnuts, or extra peanuts gives them more crunch.
Coconut Coating: Rolling the balls in shredded coconut adds a tropical twist.
Healthier Option: Using natural peanut butter and honey instead of corn syrup makes them less processed.
Extra Sweetness: Mixing in mini chocolate chips or butterscotch chips makes them even more indulgent.
Storage/Reheating
I store these peanut butter balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If I want them to last longer, I keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For long-term storage, they freeze well in a sealed container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, I let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
FAQs
How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands?
I lightly grease my hands with a little butter or cooking spray before shaping the balls to prevent sticking.
Can I use smooth peanut butter instead of chunky?
Yes, smooth peanut butter works just as well, but I prefer chunky for extra texture.
Can I make these without corn syrup?
Yes, I can substitute honey or maple syrup, but the texture might be slightly softer.
How do I make these dairy-free?
This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but I always check the ingredients of my peanut butter and cereal to be sure.
Can I use a different cereal?
Yes, but Rice Krispies work best. If using another cereal, I make sure it has a similar light and crispy texture.
Conclusion
Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Balls are a simple yet delicious treat that I can whip up in no time. Whether I make them for a party, as a snack, or to satisfy my sweet tooth, they are always a hit. With easy variations and great storage options, they’re a go-to recipe I keep coming back to.
Recipe:
Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Balls
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 balls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crunchy, sweet, and packed with peanut butter goodness, these Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Balls are an easy, no-bake treat that everyone will love! With a perfect balance of crispy rice cereal and creamy peanut butter, they make for an irresistible snack or dessert. Plus, they store well, making them a great make-ahead option.
Ingredients
Base:
1 cup corn syrup
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup peanut butter (chunky preferred)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cereal:
4 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Instructions
- Prepare the Syrup: In a large saucepan, combine corn syrup and powdered sugar. Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture starts to boil.
- Mix in Peanut Butter: Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add Cereal: Gently fold in Rice Krispies, ensuring even coating.
- Form the Balls: Let the mixture cool slightly, then shape into 1-inch balls and place on a wax-paper-lined baking sheet.
- Set & Serve: Allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container for storage.
Notes
Chocolate Drizzle: Add melted chocolate on top for extra indulgence.
Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped almonds, walnuts, or peanuts for more texture.
Coconut Coating: Roll in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Healthier Option: Substitute honey for corn syrup and use natural peanut butter.
Extra Sweetness: Add mini chocolate or butterscotch chips for a richer treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 balls
- Calories: 150 kcal
