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These Christmas chocolate Rice Krispie balls have become my go-to festive treat each holiday season. They combine the nostalgic crunch of Rice Krispies with rich, creamy chocolate and just the right touch of peanut butter. Perfect for sharing at family gatherings or gifting to friends, they bring a lot of holiday cheer with minimal fuss.
I remember making these with my kids on a chilly December afternoon. Their excitement while dipping and decorating made the whole kitchen feel warm and joyful.
Ingredients
- Rice Krispies cereal: the classic crunchy base essential for that perfect texture
- Creamy peanut butter: adds a smooth nutty richness choose natural for less sugar or store brand for familiarity
- Powdered sugar: helps sweeten and bind the mixture without graininess
- Unsalted butter melted: enriches flavor and helps everything stick together opt for good quality for best taste
- Vanilla extract: elevates the flavors with a subtle sweet aroma
- Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips: melts smoothly for coating pick your favorite type of chocolate to suit your taste
- Coconut oil optional: makes chocolate coating silkier and easier to dip
- Holiday sprinkles: bring festive color and texture pick vibrant fresh ones for best appearance
Instructions
- Scoop and roll:
- Scoop out small portions about 1 tablespoon each and roll into 1-inch balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Melt chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
- Dip balls:
- Dip each Rice Krispie ball into the melted chocolate, using a fork to coat completely. Let excess chocolate drip off before returning to parchment.
- Decorate:
- Decorate with holiday sprinkles immediately before the chocolate sets.
- Refrigerate:
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate hardens.
- Serve:
- Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy!
I love how the holiday sprinkles add a pop of color and festive sparkle. One year, my kids made these as gifts with personalized notes, making the treats even more special.
Storage tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week to keep them fresh and firm For longer storage, freeze the balls on a baking sheet first then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; thaw in the fridge when ready to eat Avoid leaving them out at room temperature too long or the chocolate may become too soft
Ingredient substitutions
If peanut allergies are a concern, swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or almond butter for a different but tasty nutty flavor Powdered sugar can be replaced with coconut sugar powder for a slightly different sweetness profile Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor or white chocolate for a sweeter twist
Serving suggestions
Serve as a festive dessert platter alongside hot cocoa or holiday cocktails Package them in pretty boxes or cellophane bags tied with ribbon for homemade gifts Pair with other holiday treats like gingerbread cookies or peppermint bark for a seasonal spread
This festive treat is simple to make and always brings joy to family moments during the holidays.
FAQs about Recipes
- → What cereal is used for the base?
Rice Krispies cereal forms the crispy foundation.
- → Can the chocolate coating be made smoother?
Yes, adding coconut oil while melting chocolate helps achieve a silky texture.
- → How are the balls shaped and sized?
Mix is scooped by tablespoon and rolled into roughly 1-inch balls.
- → Are decorations necessary?
Holiday sprinkles add color and festive appeal but are optional.
- → How long should the treats be chilled?
Chill for at least 30 minutes until the chocolate hardens for best results.