Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls are a delightful no-bake treat that combines crispy rice cereal with rich chocolate for a perfect bite-sized dessert. They are easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are great for parties, holidays, or a quick sweet snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – No baking required, and they come together in minutes.
- Kid-Friendly – Perfect for kids to help make and enjoy.
- Customizable – Add nuts, marshmallows, or sprinkles for extra fun.
- Great for Any Occasion – Serve them at gatherings, pack them in lunchboxes, or enjoy as a late-night snack.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Rice Krispies cereal
- Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- Peanut butter (optional for extra creaminess)
- Butter
- Vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar (optional for coating)
Directions
- In a heatproof bowl, melt chocolate chips and butter together using a microwave or double boiler, stirring until smooth.
- If using peanut butter, stir it into the melted chocolate mixture until well combined.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Pour the mixture over the Rice Krispies cereal in a large bowl and stir until all the cereal is coated.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then shape it into small balls using your hands or a cookie scoop.
- Place the balls on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate until firm (about 30 minutes).
- Optionally, roll the balls in powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
- Enjoy immediately or store for later!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 20-25 balls, depending on size
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Marshmallow Twist: Mix in mini marshmallows for a s’mores-like flavor.
- Coconut Coating: Roll the balls in shredded coconut for a tropical touch.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle with melted white chocolate for a decorative finish.
- Festive Sprinkles: Use colored sprinkles to match holidays or special occasions.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.
- Room Temperature: If not too warm, they can stay fresh at room temperature for 2-3 days in an airtight container.
FAQs
How do I prevent the Rice Krispie Balls from falling apart?
Make sure the chocolate mixture is fully incorporated with the cereal and press the mixture firmly when shaping the balls.
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes! Dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even flavored chocolate can be used.
What can I use instead of peanut butter?
You can substitute almond butter, sunflower butter, or leave it out completely.
How do I make them dairy-free?
Use dairy-free chocolate chips and a plant-based butter alternative.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Yes! Dried fruit, chopped nuts, or toffee bits can be mixed in for added flavor.
How long do they need to chill?
About 30 minutes in the fridge is usually enough for them to firm up.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they store well in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for meal prep.
Are these gluten-free?
Most Rice Krispies cereals contain malt, which has gluten. Use a certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal for a gluten-free version.
Can I make them without sugar?
You can use sugar-free chocolate and omit powdered sugar for a lower-sugar treat.
What’s the best way to coat them evenly?
Use a cookie scoop for uniform balls and roll them gently between your hands for a smooth finish.
Conclusion
Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls are a simple, delicious, and versatile treat that everyone will love. Whether you make them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a chocolate craving, they are easy to prepare and store. Try different variations to make them your own, and enjoy this fun and tasty dessert!
PrintChocolate Rice Krispie Balls
These Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls are a fun, no-bake treat that’s crunchy, chocolatey, and perfect for snacking or dessert. Made with marshmallows, chocolate, and crispy rice cereal, they’re easy to whip up and great for parties or holiday treats!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 18–20 balls 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Melt the chocolate mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter, stirring frequently until smooth.
- Add vanilla & marshmallows: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt. Gently fold in the mini marshmallows.
- Mix with cereal: In a large bowl, pour the melted chocolate mixture over the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir well until everything is evenly coated.
- Shape the balls: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, scoop out portions and roll them into balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Chill: Refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until firm.
- Serve & enjoy! Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for a longer shelf life.
Notes
- For extra crunch, mix in chopped nuts or crushed pretzels.
- Drizzle with white chocolate or sprinkle with sea salt for added flavor.
- If peanut butter isn’t an option, substitute with almond butter or sunflower seed butter.