Making the Peanut Butter Balls
- Prepare the Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and softened butter. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Add the Powdered Sugar:
- Gradually add the powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. The mixture will be thick.
- Incorporate the Rice Krispies:
- Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly distributed. The mixture should be somewhat sticky but manageable.
- Shape the Balls:
- Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to form the mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper.
- Chill:
- Refrigerate the peanut butter balls for about 30 minutes, or until firm.
Coating the Peanut Butter Balls
- Melt the Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt the chocolate using a double boiler.
- Coat the Balls:
- Dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Use a fork or toothpick to help with dipping and to allow excess chocolate to drip off.
- Set the Coating:
- Place the coated balls back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle a few extra Rice Krispies on top for decoration before the chocolate sets.
- Chill Again:
- Refrigerate the chocolate-coated peanut butter balls for an additional 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.
Tips for Success
- Consistency: If the peanut butter mixture is too soft and hard to shape, add a bit more powdered sugar to firm it up.
- Melting Chocolate: Make sure to stir the chocolate frequently while melting to prevent burning and ensure a smooth consistency.
- Storage: Store the finished peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Conclusion
These Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate Rice Krispies are a delicious treat that combines the best of both worlds: creamy peanut butter, crispy cereal, and smooth chocolate. They’re perfect for satisfying a sweet craving and are sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Enjoy making and eating these delightful treats!