Peanut Butter Crunch Balls
Indulge in these delightful Peanut Butter Crunch Balls, an irresistible treat that combines the rich flavors of chunky peanut butter with crispy Rice Krispies. Inspired by a cherished recipe from a retirement park fundraiser cookbook, these easy-to-prepare candies are perfect for holiday trays or any occasion throughout the year. With a prep time of only 15 minutes (plus an hour for freezing), you'll have a delicious dessert ready in no time. Dipped in a glossy chocolate coating, these treats are not only delicious but visually appealing, making them a favorite among family and friends. Whether you crave the classic taste of chocolate or want to get creative with colored almond bark, these Peanut Butter Crunch Balls are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Rice Krispies
3 cups (n/a)
Chunky Peanut Butter
2 cups (n/a)
Powdered Sugar
1 lb (sifted)
Melted Margarine
3/4 cup (melted)
Vanilla Extract
1 teaspoon (n/a)
Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips
6 ounces (n/a)
Sweet Chocolate Chips
6 ounces (n/a)
Paraffin Wax
3 ounces (n/a)
Instructions
1
In a large bowl, combine the Rice Krispies, chunky peanut butter, powdered sugar, melted margarine, and vanilla extract until well mixed and uniform.
2
Using your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3
Once all the balls are formed, freeze them for about 30 minutes or until solid.
4
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet and sweet chocolate chips along with the paraffin wax in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until smooth and fully combined.
5
Remove the frozen peanut butter balls from the freezer. Dip each ball into the chocolate mixture using a fork, allowing excess chocolate to drip off.
6
Place the dipped balls back on the parchment-lined baking sheet and let them cool until the chocolate hardens. You can also refrigerate them for quicker setting.
7
For a fun twist, melt white almond bark instead of chocolate and add food coloring for festive hues, or keep it plain for a delicious vanilla finish.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Peanut Butter Crunch Balls?
Peanut Butter Crunch Balls are a delightful candy treat that combines chunky peanut butter, Rice Krispies, and a chocolate coating.
Are Peanut Butter Crunch Balls a no-bake recipe?
Yes, this is a no-bake recipe that involves mixing ingredients, freezing the mixture, and dipping the balls in melted chocolate.
What ingredients are used for the crunch in these balls?
The crunch comes from 3 cups of Rice Krispies cereal and 2 cups of chunky peanut butter.
How much peanut butter is required for the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of chunky peanut butter.
What type of sugar is needed?
You will need 1 lb of sifted powdered sugar.
Can I use butter instead of margarine?
The recipe specifies 3/4 cup of melted margarine, but butter is often a suitable substitute in candy recipes.
Is vanilla extract included in the ingredients?
Yes, the recipe requires 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for added flavor.
How large should the peanut butter balls be?
You should form the mixture into approximately 1-inch balls.
Why do the peanut butter balls need to be frozen?
Freezing the balls for about 30 minutes makes them solid enough to be dipped into warm chocolate without falling apart.
What kind of chocolate is used for the coating?
The coating is made from a blend of 6 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 6 ounces of sweet chocolate chips.
What is the purpose of paraffin wax in the chocolate?
Paraffin wax is used to give the chocolate a glossy finish and help it harden properly at room temperature.
How much paraffin wax do I need?
The recipe calls for 3 ounces of paraffin wax.
How should I melt the chocolate coating?
Melt the chocolate chips and paraffin wax in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring in between.
What is the best way to dip the balls into chocolate?
Use a fork to dip each frozen ball into the chocolate mixture, allowing the excess chocolate to drip off.
Can I use white almond bark instead of chocolate?
Yes, you can melt white almond bark for a vanilla finish or a different aesthetic.
How can I make these treats colorful for holidays?
You can melt white almond bark and add food coloring to create festive hues.
What is the total preparation time?
The prep time is approximately 15 minutes, not including the freezing and setting time.
Where did this recipe come from?
It was inspired by a cherished recipe from a retirement park fundraiser cookbook.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients used to make these Peanut Butter Crunch Balls.
How long do the balls need to freeze before dipping?
They should be frozen for at least 30 minutes or until solid.
What should I use to line the baking sheet?
Use parchment paper to prevent the balls from sticking to the sheet.
Can I speed up the chocolate hardening process?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dipped balls to help the chocolate set more quickly.
Is sifting the powdered sugar necessary?
The recipe recommends sifting the powdered sugar to ensure a uniform and smooth mixture.
Are these balls good for holiday trays?
Yes, they are described as perfect for holiday trays and visually appealing for any occasion.
Can I use creamy peanut butter instead of chunky?
While the recipe calls for chunky peanut butter for extra crunch, creamy peanut butter can be used if preferred.
How do I prevent the balls from sticking during the dipping process?
Placing the dipped balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet prevents sticking while the chocolate hardens.
Are these treats shelf-stable?
Because they contain chocolate and peanut butter, they are best kept in a cool place or refrigerator to maintain texture.
Can I use different types of cereal?
The recipe is specifically designed for Rice Krispies, but other puffed rice cereals may work as well.
How do I ensure the chocolate coating is smooth?
Stirring the chocolate and wax mixture thoroughly every 30 seconds during melting ensures it is smooth and fully combined.
What is the main flavor profile of this candy?
The main flavors are rich peanut butter and sweet chocolate with a satisfying crispy texture.