Name: Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls (No-Bake!)
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups Rice Krispies (or puffed rice cereal); ½ cup creamy peanut butter (or almond/sunflower seed butter); ¼ cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate); Pinch of salt; Optional: 2–3 tablespoons shredded coconut; Optional: 1–2 tablespoons ground flaxseed or chia seeds; Optional: Crushed nuts for texture

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When I need a quick chocolate fix without turning on the oven, I make these Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls (No-Bake!). They’re rich, chewy, slightly crunchy, and packed with chocolate flavor. I love how simple the ingredients are, and I can have them ready in minutes. Whether I want a quick snack, an after-school treat, or a make-ahead dessert, these no-bake bites always come through.

Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls (No-Bake!)

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ½ cups Rice Krispies (or any puffed rice cereal)

½ cup creamy peanut butter (or almond/sunflower seed butter)

¼ cup honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

¼ cup mini chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)

Pinch of salt

Optional add-ins:

2–3 tablespoon shredded coconut

1–2 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds

Crushed nuts for texture

Directions

Mix the base:

I add the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt to a medium bowl. I stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

Add cereal:

I gently fold in the Rice Krispies until they are evenly coated with the chocolate mixture. Then I stir in the chocolate chips and any optional add-ins I’m using.

Shape:

Using my hands or a small cookie scoop, I roll the mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture feels too sticky, I chill it for about 10 minutes first or lightly grease my hands to make rolling easier.

Chill:

I place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate them for 20–30 minutes to firm up. If I’m in a hurry, I sometimes enjoy them right away, but I prefer the texture after chilling.

Servings and Timing

Makes: About 20 balls

Prep time: 10 minutes

Chill time: 20–30 minutes (optional but recommended)

Total time: Approximately 30–40 minutes

Variations

I sometimes drizzle melted chocolate over the top before chilling for an extra chocolate boost. When I need a nut-free version, I use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter. For a festive touch, I roll the balls in sprinkles, cocoa powder, or crushed freeze-dried berries. If I want more texture, I mix in shredded coconut or crushed nuts.

Storage/Reheating

I store the balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, I freeze them for up to 2 months. When I’m ready to eat them from the freezer, I let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. Since they’re no-bake, reheating isn’t necessary.

FAQs

Can I make these without peanut butter?

Yes, I can substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter. Sunflower seed butter works especially well if I need a nut-free option.

Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?

Yes, I often swap honey for maple syrup. Both work well and help bind the mixture together.

Why is my mixture too sticky to roll?

If the mixture feels too sticky, I chill it for about 10 minutes before shaping. I also lightly grease my hands to prevent sticking.

Can I skip the chocolate chips?

Yes, I can leave them out if I prefer a smoother texture, but I personally like the extra bursts of chocolate they add.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. I usually make them ahead and store them in the fridge or freezer so I have quick grab-and-go snacks ready anytime.

Conclusion

I love keeping a batch of these Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls in my fridge for whenever I’m craving something sweet and satisfying. They’re quick, easy, and endlessly customizable. With simple pantry ingredients and no baking required, I can whip up a delicious treat in almost no time.

📖 Recipe:

Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls (No-Bake!)

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 20 balls
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls are a quick and easy no-bake treat made with peanut butter, cocoa, and crispy rice cereal. They’re rich, chewy, slightly crunchy, and perfect for a fast snack or make-ahead dessert.

Instructions

In a medium bowl, mix together the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and fully combined.
Gently fold in the Rice Krispies until evenly coated. Stir in the chocolate chips and any optional add-ins if using.
Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls (about 1 inch in diameter) using your hands or a small cookie scoop. If the mixture is too sticky, chill for 10 minutes or lightly grease your hands.
Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes until firm. Serve chilled or at room temperature.