Celebrate the holidays with these Christmas Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls a delightful combination of creamy peanut butter, crunchy cereal, toasted pecans, and sweet coconut all coated in rich chocolate. These bite-sized festive treats are perfect for cookie exchanges, dessert platters, or as a make-ahead sweet to share with family and friends. They’re irresistibly crunchy, chocolatey, and full of holiday cheer in every bite!
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- ½ cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 3 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup Rice Krispies cereal
- ½ cup chopped pecans, toasted (optional)
- 1 cup shredded coconut
For the Coating:
- 1 package chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate)
- 1 square sweet chocolate
Instructions
- Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Add Crunch: Add the Rice Krispies cereal, chopped pecans (if using), and shredded coconut. Gently fold the ingredients until evenly coated.
- Shape the Balls: Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form bite-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and sweet chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth. (You can also use a double boiler for better control.)
- Coat Each Ball: Dip each Rice Krispie ball into the melted chocolate, turning until fully coated. Lift with a fork and let the excess chocolate drip off.
- Set and Chill: Return the coated balls to the lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate hardens.
- Serve: Enjoy chilled for a snappy bite or let them sit at room temperature for a softer, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Variation
- Festive Mix-Ins: Try adding crushed peppermint candies or red and green sprinkles into the mixture before shaping the balls. This adds a colorful holiday twist and a pleasant minty crunch that pairs beautifully with the chocolate coating.
- Different Nut Options: Swap pecans for almonds, walnuts, or even hazelnuts for a varied flavor profile. Each nut brings its own unique texture and richness, letting you personalize the recipe to your taste.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: For a stunning presentation, drizzle melted white chocolate over the chilled balls. It adds a creamy sweetness and an elegant snow-kissed look, perfect for Christmas dessert platters.
- Flavor Infusion: Add a dash of cinnamon or a sprinkle of espresso powder to the melted chocolate. This gives the coating a warm spice or mocha undertone that deepens the flavor and complements the peanut butter filling.
- Nut-Free Version: Omit the pecans and use sunflower seed butter or cookie butter instead of peanut butter for a nut-free alternative that still delivers a rich, creamy texture and indulgent taste.
Cooking Notes
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