Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate Rice Krispies: The 20-Minute No-Bake Sensation

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Crafting Perfection: Your Foolproof Step-by-Step Guide

If you can use a mixer and a spoon, you can make these. Here’s how:

  1. Make the Peanut Butter Mixture: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer (or a sturdy spoon) to beat together the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth and combined.

  2. Add Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until it is fully incorporated. The mixture will be thick and crumbly.

  3. Add the Crunch: Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until they are evenly distributed throughout the peanut butter mixture.

  4. Form the Balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls (about 1 tablespoon each) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  5. Chill: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial! It firms up the balls, making them much easier to dip in chocolate without falling apart.

  6. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each burst, until the chocolate is completely smooth and melted.

  7. Dip and Coat: Using a fork or a dipping tool, dip each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, tapping off the excess.

  8. Set and Serve: Return the dipped balls to the parchment paper. If desired, sprinkle with a pinch of flaky sea salt or extra Rice Krispies before the chocolate sets. Let the chocolate set at room temperature or speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.

Pro-Tips for the Absolute Best Results

  • Chill Your Balls: Do not skip the chilling step! Cold peanut butter balls are the key to a clean, easy dip and a distinct chocolate shell.

  • Use a Fork for Dipping: Place a ball on a fork and dip it into the chocolate. Use a spoon to help coat it, then tap the fork on the edge of the bowl to remove excess chocolate.

  • Keep Your Chocolate Warm: If your chocolate starts to thicken, simply pop it back in the microwave for 15 seconds.

  • Double the Recipe: These disappear fast! Doubling the recipe is highly recommended for parties or gifting.

  • Get Creative: Use white chocolate or dark chocolate for dipping. Roll them in sprinkles, crushed nuts, or coconut immediately after dipping.

Serving, Pairing, and Storing Your Masterpiece

Serving: Arrange these on a beautiful platter for parties or pack them in a single layer in a container for a portable treat.

What to Serve With Them:

  • A tall glass of cold milk

  • A mug of hot coffee

  • As part of a larger dessert charcuterie board

Storing:

  • Storing: Store these in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They can also be stored at cool room temperature for a few days if your kitchen is not too warm.

  • Freezing: These freeze beautifully! Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: My mixture is too dry and crumbly. What can I do?
A: This means your peanut butter was very thick. Add a teaspoon of melted butter or a few drops of milk at a time until the mixture comes together and is rollable.

Q: My mixture is too soft and oily. What happened?
A: This is likely due to using natural peanut butter or peanut butter that wasn’t stirred well. You can try adding a bit more powdered sugar or crushed graham cracker crumbs to help it firm up.

Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
A: Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add an extra layer of texture along with the Rice Krispies.

Q: My chocolate is clumpy. How can I fix it?
A: Seized or clumpy chocolate is often caused by a drop of water getting into it. To fix it, try stirring in a teaspoon of additional coconut oil or shortening. If that doesn’t work, you may need to start over.

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