Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls

Chocolate-Dipped Peanut Butter Coconut Balls

 Ingredients

For the Balls:

• 1/2 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)

• 3 tablespoons butter, softened (room temperature for easy mixing)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup Rice Krispies cereal

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (toast lightly for extra flavor, optional)

• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

For the Chocolate Coating:

• 1 bag (about 12 oz / 340 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1 piece (about 1 oz / 28 g) sweet chocolate or chocolate bark (for smoother, glossier finish)

 Preparation 

 Step 1: Mix the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, add:

   • 1/2 cup peanut butter

   • 3 tablespoons softened butter

   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2. Use a hand mixer or spoon to blend until smooth and creamy.

3. Fold in:

   • 1 cup Rice Krispies cereal

   • 1/2 cup chopped pecans

   • 1 cup grated coconut

4. Mix everything thoroughly until evenly combined. The mixture should be sticky but firm enough to hold its shape.

 Step 2: Chill the Mixture

1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.

2. Place it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up the mixture for easier rolling.

 Step 3: Shape the Balls

1. Once chilled, scoop out small portions (about 1 tablespoon each).

2. Roll between your palms into balls.

3. Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.

Tip: You should get around 20–24 balls depending on size.

4. Return the shaped balls to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour. This helps them stay firm when dipping in warm chocolate.

 Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Coating

1. Set up a double boiler:

   • Fill a saucepan with 1–2 inches of water and bring to a gentle simmer.

   • Place a heatproof bowl on top (make sure it doesn’t touch the water).

2. Add to the bowl:

   • 1 bag of chocolate chips

   • 1 piece of sweet chocolate or chocolate bark

3. Stir continuously over low heat until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

Important: Do not let water get into the chocolate or it may seize.

 Step 5: Dip the Balls

1. Remove chilled balls from the fridge.

2. Using a fork or skewer, lower one ball at a time into the melted chocolate.

3. Gently roll it to coat evenly.

4. Lift the ball out with the fork, let excess chocolate drip off, and place it on a parchment-lined tray.

 Step 6: Final Chill

1. Once all balls are dipped, return the tray to the refrigerator.

2. Chill for about 30–60 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set.

 Serve and Enjoy!

Serve chilled or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

 Optional Variations & Tips

• Nut Swap: Replace pecans with walnuts or almonds.

• Add Texture: Mix in crushed graham crackers or oats for a slightly firmer texture.

• Extra Sweetness: Roll dipped balls in sprinkles, chopped nuts, or more coconut before the chocolate sets.

• Dark Chocolate: For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.

enjoy!