Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies

These no-bake Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a crunchy, sweet, and satisfying treat made with just four ingredients. Coated in smooth vegan white chocolate, these bite-sized delights are naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and optionally sugar-free—perfect for holiday trays, dessert platters, or a fun snack any time of year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. The creamy peanut butter pairs perfectly with crispy rice cereal, while the white chocolate coating adds a luscious, sweet finish. They require no baking, use pantry staples, and can be made in under an hour. With their irresistible crunch and rich flavor, these treats are kid-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and great for meal prep or gifting.

Ingredients

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

• ¾ cup creamy peanut butter

• 1 cup puffed rice cereal

• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar

• 1½ cups vegan white chocolate chips

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and puffed rice cereal. Mix until well incorporated.

2. Use a small cookie scoop or melon baller to portion the mixture into small balls.

3. Place the balls onto a parchment or wax paper-lined baking tray.

4. Transfer the tray to the freezer and chill the balls for about 15 minutes, until firm.

5. While the balls are freezing, melt the vegan white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, stirring until smooth.

6. Dip each frozen ball into the melted white chocolate, coating fully. Return each dipped ball to the tray.

7. Once all balls are coated, place the tray back in the freezer for another 15 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.

8. Transfer the finished peanut butter balls to an airtight container and store in the fridge.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 12 balls and takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, including chill time:

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Freeze time: 30 minutes total (15 minutes before and after dipping)

Variations

• Chocolate Swap: Use vegan dark or semi-sweet chocolate instead of white chocolate for a richer flavor.

• Add Texture: Mix in mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or crushed nuts for extra crunch.

• Make Bars Instead: Press the peanut butter mixture into a parchment-lined pan and top with melted chocolate. Chill and slice into bars.

• Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed butter or almond butter for a different flavor or allergy-friendly option.

• Sugar-Free Option: Use a sugar-free powdered sweetener and sugar-free vegan white chocolate for a low-sugar treat.

Storage/Reheating

Store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge before serving. No reheating is necessary, as these are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but make sure it’s well-stirred and not too runny, or the mixture may not hold its shape.

Can I use regular white chocolate?

Yes, if you’re not vegan or dairy-free, regular white chocolate works just fine.

What if my mixture is too soft to form balls?

Add a little more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture is firm enough to scoop and roll.

Can I make these without a freezer?

Chilling in the fridge will work too, but freezing helps the balls set faster and makes dipping easier.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your rice cereal is certified gluten-free, the entire recipe will be gluten-free.

Can I use another cereal besides Rice Krispies?

Yes, puffed quinoa, puffed millet, or crushed cornflakes are great alternatives.

How long do they last in the fridge?

These will stay fresh for up to 7 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I decorate the top?

Absolutely! Sprinkle with crushed nuts, coconut, or a drizzle of contrasting chocolate before the coating sets.

Are they suitable for kids?

Yes! They’re sweet, fun to eat, and contain simple ingredients that are generally kid-friendly.

Can I skip the chocolate coating?

You can, but the chocolate coating adds a delicious contrast to the peanut butter center and helps hold the shape.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies are a quick, easy, and delicious no-bake treat that blends creamy, crunchy, and sweet into every bite. Whether you’re prepping for the holidays, hosting a party, or just want a simple dessert with pantry staples, these bite-sized snacks are a guaranteed hit. Make a batch and watch them disappear!

Print