There is something wonderfully nostalgic about the crunch of Rice Krispies mixed with sweet peanut butter and dipped in creamy white chocolate. These Irresistible White Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls take that classic flavor combination and wrap it up in a festive, no-bake bite-sized treat. Every December, when the holiday season starts to sparkle, these become one of the first treats I make—not just because they’re delicious, but because they embody everything joyful about homemade holiday goodies. They’re easy, fun, endlessly giftable, and absolutely irresistible on cookie trays. Whether you’re baking with kids, prepping for a party, or simply craving a sweet bite of holiday cheer, these no-bake Rice Krispie balls are guaranteed to become a yearly tradition.
What Is Irresistible White Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls
White Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls are a no-bake dessert made from a simple mixture of Rice Krispies cereal, peanut butter, and powdered sugar, shaped into balls and dipped in melted white chocolate. They’re soft on the inside, crispy with every bite, and coated in a creamy chocolate shell that cracks gently when you take a bite. Decorated with red, green, and white sprinkles, they transform into an eye-catching holiday treat that feels both nostalgic and modern. They’re a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for cookie exchanges, gifting, party platters, or late-night sweet cravings.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore these no-bake treats. First, they’re unbelievably simple—no oven required, no special equipment, and no complicated candy-making. Second, their flavor is comfort in every bite: creamy peanut butter, crisp cereal, sweet white chocolate, and festive sprinkles. Third, they store exceptionally well, meaning you can make them days ahead of your celebrations. They also travel beautifully, making them perfect for holiday potlucks or homemade gift boxes. Kids love helping roll and decorate them, and adults love eating them. Once you see how quickly a batch disappears, you’ll understand why this recipe becomes a holiday staple.
How Does It Taste?
Each bite of these White Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls is a delightful experience. The inside is soft, slightly chewy, and lightly crunchy from the cereal. The peanut butter mixture brings a nutty, creamy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the silky white chocolate shell. The holiday sprinkles add a playful crunch and festive charm. The flavor is reminiscent of old-fashioned peanut butter balls, but lighter and more textured thanks to the cereal. They’re sweet, satisfying, and dangerously easy to pop into your mouth one after another. If you enjoy peanut butter, white chocolate, and crispy textures, this treat will become an instant favorite.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
While these are undeniably treats, several ingredients offer surprising benefits. Peanut butter contains healthy fats, protein, and vitamins that make the filling more satisfying. Rice Krispies add structure without excess heaviness. White chocolate—though sweeter than dark chocolate—contains dairy compounds that create a beautifully smooth texture. Because these are no-bake, they retain the natural flavors of the ingredients without needing additional oils or preservatives. Best of all, you control the quality of each component, allowing you to choose organic peanut butter, sprinkles without artificial dyes, or high-quality chocolate if desired.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Below is the classic combination used to create the irresistible balls seen in the image:
1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
1 cup powdered sugar
3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
2 cups white chocolate chips or white melting wafers
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother coating)
Holiday sprinkles (red, green, and white)
- Tools You’ll Need
Only a few simple tools are needed to create this no-bake dessert:
A large mixing bowl
A spoon or spatula
A baking sheet
Parchment or wax paper
A microwave-safe bowl or double boiler
A small cookie scoop (optional, but gives even sizing)
A fork for dipping
Optional Substitutions & Additions
These Rice Krispie Balls are wonderfully flexible. Here are some easy variations:
Use almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
Swap in dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate.
Add mini marshmallows for added chewiness.
Mix in crushed pretzels for salty crunch.
Stir in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture.
Use gold or silver sprinkles for New Year’s treats.
Add crushed peppermint candies for a minty holiday flavor.
Why They’re Perfect for Last-Minute Holiday Treats
We’ve all had those moments when we need a holiday dessert quickly—unexpected guests, last-minute parties, or gifting inspiration. These White Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls are a lifesaver in those moments. They take under 20 minutes to prepare, require no baking or chilling between steps (unless you want to firm them up), and use pantry staples you likely already have. They’re also ideal for making large batches without spending hours in the kitchen. Fast, festive, and fuss-free—exactly what holiday treats should be.
- How to Make
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Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper.
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In a large bowl, stir together peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
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Add Rice Krispies cereal and fold gently until fully coated.
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Scoop and roll into small 1-inch balls and place onto the prepared baking sheet.
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Melt white chocolate (with coconut oil if using) in the microwave in 20–30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
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Dip each ball into the white chocolate, letting excess drip off.
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Place coated balls back onto the baking sheet and immediately top with holiday sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
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Allow chocolate to firm at room temperature or refrigerate for faster setting.
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Store once hardened.
What to Serve With
These festive treats pair well with a variety of holiday favorites:
Hot chocolate, peppermint mocha, or coffee
A holiday dessert board
Christmas cookies like gingerbread or snickerdoodles
Glass jars for gifting
A festive brunch or dessert buffet
Serving platters with contrasting colors to make the sprinkles pop
Tips for Success
Mix the peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth for even texture.
Be gentle when mixing in the Rice Krispies to avoid crushing them.
Use a small cookie scoop for perfectly uniform balls.
If the mixture is too sticky, chill briefly before rolling.
Use high-quality white chocolate for the smoothest coating.
Add coconut oil to improve dipping consistency.
Decorate immediately after dipping, before chocolate hardens.
Let them set fully before storing to avoid smudging.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-melting white chocolate, which can cause it to seize.
Skipping the powdered sugar—it’s essential for structure.
Pressing the cereal too firmly, which makes dense balls.
Allowing the chocolate to cool too much before dipping.
Adding sprinkles after the chocolate begins to set.
Storing before fully hardened, leading to messy treats.
Using natural peanut butter without stirring thoroughly; oil separation affects texture.
How to Store & Reheat
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 5–7 days.
Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks for longer freshness.
Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Do not reheat—these are meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
Keep layers separated with parchment if stacking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but stir thoroughly and note that the mixture may be softer.
Can I use marshmallows?
Absolutely—adding mini marshmallows makes a gooier, softer filling.
Can I make these nut-free?
Yes, simply use sunflower seed butter or cookie butter instead of peanut butter.
Why did my white chocolate seize?
It likely overheated or had contact with water—melt slowly and gently.
Can kids help make these?
Yes! Rolling and sprinkling are perfect kid-friendly steps.
How many does this recipe make?
Typically 24–30 balls, depending on size.
- Nutritional Info (approximate per serving)
Calories: 150
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugars: 14g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Sodium: Low
(This varies based on chocolate and peanut butter used.)
Conclusion:
These Irresistible White Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls are everything a holiday treat should be: fun, festive, fast, and fantastically delicious. With their creamy peanut butter center, crispy texture, smooth chocolate coating, and cheerful sprinkles, they brighten any dessert table and disappear faster than you expect. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering, assembling cookie trays, or whipping up last-minute gifts, this no-bake recipe gives you maximum flavor with minimal effort. Make them once and they’ll become a beloved yearly tradition—simple, nostalgic, and irresistibly sweet.
Print
Irresistible White Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls! Easy No-Bake
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24–30 balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easy no-bake White Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls made with peanut butter, powdered sugar, Rice Krispies cereal, and a creamy white chocolate coating topped with festive sprinkles.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
1 cup powdered sugar
3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
2 cups white chocolate chips or melting wafers
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)
Holiday sprinkles
Instructions
Line a baking sheet with parchment.
Mix peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
Add Rice Krispies and fold gently to combine.
Roll mixture into 1-inch balls.
Melt white chocolate with coconut oil until smooth.
Dip each ball into melted chocolate and place on the baking sheet.
Top immediately with sprinkles.
Allow to set at room temperature or refrigerate.
Notes
For firmer balls, chill mixture before rolling. Use high-quality white chocolate for best melting results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: white chocolate rice krispie balls, no-bake holiday treats, rice krispie truffles, peanut butter balls, Christmas desserts