Description
Delightfully festive and easy to make, these Christmas Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls combine crunchy cereal with rich chocolate and peanut butter for a no-bake holiday treat. Perfect for parties, cookie exchanges, or a sweet snack, they’re decorated with colorful sprinkles sure to brighten any celebration.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Festive sprinkles for decorating
Instructions
- Prepare the cereal base: In a large mixing bowl, add the 3 cups of Rice Krispies cereal and set aside. This will be the foundation for your chocolate mixture.
- Melt the chocolate mixture: In a saucepan over low heat, combine 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, and 1/2 cup powdered sugar. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and fully melted, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated without burning.
- Add vanilla extract: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor and aroma of the mixture.
- Coat the cereal: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Rice Krispies cereal in the bowl. Gently stir with a spatula or spoon to evenly coat all the cereal pieces with the chocolate-peanut butter blend.
- Cool the mixture: Let the coated cereal mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it firms up slightly, making it easier to handle and shape without sticking excessively to your hands.
- Form the balls: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, scoop portions of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Aim for uniform size to ensure even setting and serving portions.
- Decorate the balls: Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Immediately top each ball with festive sprinkles before the chocolate sets, so the sprinkles stick well to the surface.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the baking sheet with the balls for at least 30 minutes, or until the mixture is firm and holds its shape firmly.
- Store properly: Once chilled, transfer the Rice Krispie balls to an airtight container and keep refrigerated to maintain freshness and prevent melting.
Notes
- You can substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a peanut-free version.
- Dip the balls in melted white chocolate for a fun two-tone look and extra indulgence.
- These no-bake treats are perfect for kids and make excellent festive gifts or cookie exchange items during the holiday season.
