Name: Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 30
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups crispy rice cereal; 1 cup smooth peanut butter; ⅓ cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 1⅔ cups powdered sugar; 12 ounces chocolate chips

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These old-fashioned peanut butter balls are a rich and nostalgic treat. With a creamy peanut butter center wrapped in a silky chocolate coating, they’re the kind of bite-sized indulgence that reminds me of holidays, potlucks, and family gatherings. No baking required, just mix, chill, dip, and enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how incredibly easy these peanut butter balls are to make. There’s no oven involved, just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience while they chill. They’re perfect for making ahead, and they freeze beautifully. Whether I’m gifting them, bringing them to a party, or just keeping them in the fridge for a quick sweet bite, they’re always a hit. The crispy rice cereal gives them a subtle crunch that pairs so well with the smooth peanut butter and rich chocolate.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1½ cups crispy rice cereal
1 cup smooth peanut butter
⅓ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1⅔ cups powdered sugar
12 ounces chocolate chips

directions

I start by placing the crispy rice cereal in a zip-top bag and gently crush it with a rolling pin until fine.
In a medium bowl, I mix together the peanut butter, butter, and powdered sugar.
I add the crushed cereal on top and stir everything until it forms a dough-like consistency.
I roll the dough into small balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
I refrigerate the tray for at least 2 hours to make sure they’re firm and cold.
Meanwhile, I melt the chocolate chips in the microwave, working in batches (about ⅔ cup at a time). If the chocolate seems too thick, I add a splash of corn oil to thin it.
I roll each chilled ball in the melted chocolate and set it on parchment paper.
If I’m feeling festive, I sprinkle decorations on while the chocolate is still wet.
Once the chocolate is set, they’re ready to enjoy. I often pop them back in the fridge to speed up the setting process.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 30 peanut butter balls.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

When I want to switch things up, I sometimes use crunchy peanut butter for added texture. For a twist, I’ve also rolled them in white chocolate or even drizzled the tops with caramel. If I want them extra festive, I add colored sprinkles for holidays or crushed nuts for a bit of contrast. And for those who enjoy a salty-sweet combo, a pinch of sea salt on top does wonders.

storage/reheating

I store these peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. If I’m making them ahead, I freeze them in layers with parchment paper in between, and they keep well for up to 2 months. There’s no reheating required—just bring them to room temperature or eat them cold straight from the fridge (which I personally prefer).

FAQs

How do I keep the peanut butter from sticking to my hands when rolling the balls?

I dust my hands lightly with powdered sugar before rolling the mixture. It makes the process much less sticky and keeps the shape nice and smooth.

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

I’ve tried it, but natural peanut butter tends to separate and doesn’t hold the dough together as well. I recommend using a traditional smooth peanut butter for the best results.

What type of chocolate works best for coating?

I typically use semi-sweet chocolate chips, but milk chocolate or dark chocolate work just as well depending on how sweet or rich I want the final result to be.

Do I need to use corn oil to thin the chocolate?

It’s optional. I add a splash of corn oil if the melted chocolate seems too thick for dipping, but it’s not strictly necessary.

Can I make these in advance for a party?

Absolutely. I often make them several days ahead and keep them chilled. They’re great for parties, gifts, or just to have on hand when a craving hits.

Conclusion

These old-fashioned peanut butter balls are a classic treat that never fails to impress. I love their creamy, crunchy texture, the ease of preparation, and how well they store for later. Whether I’m making them for myself or to share, they always bring a little bit of joy in every bite.