Delight in these timeless peanut butter balls, boasting a creamy filling encased in a decadent chocolate shell.
The addition of crisp rice cereal provides a surprising crunch, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
These classic peanut butter balls are a perfect combination of smooth and crunchy textures, enhanced by a rich chocolate coating. They make a delightful homemade gift or a crowd-pleasing dessert.
Main Ingredients to Craft Perfect Peanut Butter Balls
Crisp rice cereal – Adds a satisfying crunch that complements the smooth peanut butter filling.
Creamy peanut butter – The rich, velvety base that forms the heart of these delightful bites.
Butter – Adds creaminess and ensures the filling is smooth and pliable.
Confectioners’ sugar – Sweetens the mixture and binds the ingredients together.
Semisweet chocolate chips – Provides the luscious outer coating that makes these treats irresistible.
Step-by-Step: Turning Ingredients Into Peanut Butter Perfection
Melt peanut butter and butter together over low heat, stirring until smooth.
Combine crisp rice cereal and confectioners’ sugar in a mixing bowl. Pour the melted mixture over and blend until crumbly but cohesive.
Form the mixture into 1-inch balls and chill until firm.
Melt chocolate chips and coat the chilled balls evenly.
Refrigerate until the chocolate hardens, creating a deliciously crisp shell.
Expert Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Balls
For maximum flavor, use high-quality peanut butter and chocolate. If you prefer a nuttier texture, substitute half the creamy peanut butter with crunchy peanut butter. To ensure even chocolate coverage, work quickly with chilled balls, and allow excess chocolate to drip off before setting on parchment.
Add festive flair by decorating with sprinkles or a drizzle of white chocolate before the coating sets. These touches elevate their presentation for holiday trays or party platters.
How to Store Peanut Butter Balls Like a Pro
Refrigerate these treats in a shallow airtight container to maintain their freshness and texture for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator to enjoy a perfect bite every time.
Whether you’re making these peanut butter balls for a holiday gathering or as an indulgent snack, their irresistible combination of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness is sure to please.
Peanut Butter Balls Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups crisp rice cereal
- 2 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup butter
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt the peanut butter and butter together, stirring frequently to achieve a smooth mixture.
- Combine the crisp rice cereal and confectioners’ sugar in a large mixing bowl, ensuring an even blend. Pour the melted peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly. The mixture will appear crumbly but will easily form into balls.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and arrange them on parchment-lined baking sheets. Cover the sheets with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until firm.
- Melt the semisweet chocolate chips using a double boiler over low heat, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
- Dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, using two forks to coat it evenly. Allow excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl, then place the coated balls on a wire rack set over parchment paper.
- Repeat the dipping process for all balls. Refrigerate the chocolate-coated balls until the chocolate has set completely.
