These Peanut Butter Balls are a delightful, no-bake treat that combines crunchy cereal, creamy peanut butter, and rich chocolate into bite-sized perfection.
Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats, they make a satisfying snack or dessert without excessive sugar.
Quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep, these treats offer a wholesome indulgence that’s both fun to make and irresistible to eat.
Peanut Butter Balls
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl (1)
- Food processor or plastic bag & rolling pin (1)
- Microwave-safe bowl – 1
- Whisk (1)
- Baking sheets (3)
- Parchment paper (enough for 3 sheets)
- Parchment paper (enough for 3 sheets)
- Fork (for dipping)
Ingredients
- 8 cups rice crispy cereal crushed
- 4 cups chunky peanut butter
- 2 1/2 sticks unsalted butter melted
- 6 cups powdered sugar plus extra if needed
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 2 4.4 oz milk chocolate bars, roughly chopped
- 17 oz milk chocolate chips 1 1/2 bags
- 7 oz paraffin wax roughly chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace: Before starting, gather all ingredients and equipment. Line three baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy. Ensure your mixing bowl, whisk, and microwave-safe bowl are clean and ready. Having everything organized before beginning will make the process smoother and prevent mistakes.
- Crush the Cereal: Measure 8 cups of rice crispy cereal. To get a consistent texture, place the cereal in a food processor and pulse until finely crushed. If you don’t have a food processor, put the cereal in a large resealable plastic bag and crush it with a rolling pin. Aim for a mixture that’s finely crushed but still slightly textured to maintain crunch in the final balls.
- Combine Peanut Butter and Butter: In a very large mixing bowl, add 4 cups of chunky peanut butter and 2 1/2 sticks of melted unsalted butter. Using a whisk, stir the ingredients together until fully blended into a creamy, smooth mixture. This ensures that the peanut butter evenly coats the cereal and provides a rich, buttery flavor to every bite.
- Incorporate Crushed Cereal: Gradually add the crushed cereal to the peanut butter-butter mixture. Stir carefully using a large spoon or spatula until the cereal is fully coated. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky, but the cereal should remain distinct to provide crunch. Take your time to ensure even mixing.
- Add Powdered Sugar in Stages: Measure 6 cups of powdered sugar and add it gradually. Begin with 3 cups, mixing thoroughly. Add the next 2 cups, stirring until evenly combined. Finally, add the remaining sugar. The mixture should become firm enough to shape but still pliable. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of powdered sugar at a time until it can be easily rolled by hand.
- Shape the Peanut Butter Balls: Using your hands, scoop small amounts of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Make sure each ball is compact and smooth to prevent crumbling. Place the formed balls on the parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them evenly to allow room for chocolate coating later.
- Chill the Peanut Butter Balls: Place the baking sheets in the refrigerator or freezer for about 15 minutes to firm up the balls. If it’s cold outside during winter, they can also be chilled outdoors. This step is crucial because chilled balls will hold their shape when dipped into chocolate and will prevent melting or deformation.
- Prepare the Chocolate Coating: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the roughly chopped chocolate bars and chocolate chips with 7 ounces of chopped paraffin wax. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each session. The chocolate and wax should be fully melted and smooth, without any lumps. Be careful not to overheat as it can cause the chocolate to seize.
- Dip the Peanut Butter Balls: Working in small batches, use a fork to carefully lower each chilled peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate. Coat the ball completely, gently lifting it out to allow excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. Place the coated balls back onto the parchment-lined baking sheets. Repeat until all balls are coated, reheating the chocolate in 15–30 second intervals if it begins to thicken during the process.
- Optional Chocolate Drizzle: Reserve a small amount of melted chocolate for drizzling over the top of the coated balls. Use a fork or spoon to create thin, decorative lines across each ball. This adds visual appeal and extra chocolatey flavor.
- Set the Chocolate: Allow the coated peanut butter balls to sit at room temperature or in the refrigerator for at least two hours until the chocolate is fully set. The chocolate should harden with a smooth, glossy finish. This step ensures the balls are ready to handle without smudging or sticking.
- Store the Finished Treats: Once set, transfer the peanut butter balls to an airtight container. If stacking layers, place parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. Store in the refrigerator to maintain freshness, texture, and firmness. They can be enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or even gifted to friends and family.
Notes
- For the crispiest texture, crush the rice cereal finely but leave a bit of chunkiness to maintain crunch.
- Use chunky peanut butter for a heartier texture; creamy works too, but the flavor and bite will differ slightly.
- Gradually adding powdered sugar is key to prevent a sticky mess and ensure the mixture holds its shape.
- Chilling the balls before dipping in chocolate prevents melting and keeps them smooth.
- When melting chocolate, stir frequently to avoid scorching and achieve a glossy finish.
- Paraffin wax helps the chocolate harden quickly and gives a professional shine, but it can be omitted if preferred.
Chef’s Secrets: Achieving Perfect Chocolate Coating
The secret to flawless Peanut Butter Balls lies in careful temperature control and patience.
Always chill the peanut butter mixture thoroughly before dipping; this prevents the chocolate from melting unevenly.
Melt the chocolate slowly in short bursts, stirring consistently, to maintain a smooth, glossy texture.
If using paraffin wax, it accelerates setting and adds a professional finish.
For extra flair, reserve some melted chocolate for a decorative drizzle—it’s a simple trick that instantly elevates the presentation.
Serving Suggestions: Simple Yet Elegant Ideas
Peanut Butter Balls are versatile and fun to serve.
Arrange them on a festive platter for parties, sprinkle with crushed nuts or sea salt for added texture, or drizzle extra chocolate for a decorative touch.
They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or milk for a comforting snack.
For gift-giving or holiday treats, place them in a lined box with parchment paper, and tie with a ribbon for a charming presentation.
Storage Tips: Keep Them Fresh Longer
To maintain freshness and prevent melting, store Peanut Butter Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Properly stored, they can last up to two weeks and even longer in the freezer—up to three months.
When freezing, thaw in the refrigerator before serving to retain texture and flavor.
Avoid storing at room temperature for extended periods, especially in warm climates, as the chocolate coating can soften.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these balls without paraffin wax?
Yes! Paraffin wax helps the chocolate harden quickly and gives a glossy finish, but you can omit it.
The chocolate may set more slowly and have a slightly softer texture, but the taste remains the same.
2. Can I use natural peanut butter?
Natural peanut butter works, but it’s typically thinner and oilier than regular peanut butter.
You may need to chill the mixture longer and add a little extra powdered sugar to make the balls firm enough for dipping.
3. How can I make these gluten-free?
Use a certified gluten-free rice cereal to ensure the recipe is safe for those avoiding gluten.
All other ingredients—peanut butter, chocolate, and sugar—are naturally gluten-free.
4. Can I make these ahead of time for holidays?
Absolutely! These Peanut Butter Balls are ideal for meal prep or gifting.
Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
5. Can I add flavors or mix-ins?
Yes, feel free to customize! Mini chocolate chips, crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or a pinch of cinnamon can be added to the peanut butter mixture for extra flavor and texture.
Experimenting with flavor combinations makes these treats unique and festive.
