Christmas Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls Recipe

Jolly Christmas Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls Recipe for All

Sweet holiday magic meets childhood nostalgia in these delightful christmas chocolate rice krispie balls that sparkle with festive cheer.

Marshmallow-coated cereal transforms into delectable bite-sized treats everyone adores.

Memories of classic desserts blend seamlessly with seasonal joy.

Crispy textures and rich chocolate create an irresistible combination.

Kids and adults alike will fall in love with these playful confections.

Each morsel promises a delectable journey through festive flavors.

What Makes Christmas Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls Special

  • Craft Holiday Cheer: Create delightful Christmas-themed treats that bring festive joy to family gatherings and holiday parties with minimal kitchen skills required.
  • Customize with Creativity: Personalize these chocolate rice krispie balls by experimenting with different sprinkles, decorations, and coating variations to match your holiday style.
  • Quick and Simple Preparation: Prepare these delectable treats with straightforward steps that allow even novice bakers to create impressive desserts without stress or complex techniques.
  • Versatile Make-Ahead Option: Perfect for preparing in advance, these chocolate balls can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making party planning and gift-giving incredibly convenient.

Ingredients Needed for Christmas Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls

For the Base:
  • Peanut Butter: A creamy spread that provides rich flavor and helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Rice Krispies: Crispy rice cereal that adds a delightful crunch to the chocolate balls.
  • Butter: Softened butter enhances the overall richness and helps in mixing the ingredients.
For the Mix-Ins:
  • Pecans, Coconut: Chopped nuts and shredded coconut add texture and a festive holiday touch to the recipe.
For the Coating and Decoration:
  • Chocolate Chips, Sweet Chocolate: Melted chocolate creates a smooth, glossy exterior for the balls.
  • Vanilla Extract: A flavor enhancer that adds depth to the sweet mixture.
  • Red and Green Sprinkles: Festive decorations that give a cheerful Christmas appearance to the treats.

Step-by-Step Guide to Christmas Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls

Step-by-Step Guide to Christmas Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls

Step 1: Blend Delightful Base

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and combine the following ingredients:
  • Creamy peanut butter
  • Softened butter
  • Vanilla extract
  • Crispy Rice Krispies cereal
  • Chopped pecans
  • Shredded coconut

Thoroughly blend all ingredients until they create a uniform mixture. Pop the bowl into the refrigerator and let it chill for half an hour, allowing the mixture to become firm and easy to handle.

Step 2: Shape Festive Spheres

Remove the chilled mixture from the refrigerator. Using clean hands, gently roll the mixture into adorable bite-sized balls, each about the size of a walnut.

For a holiday twist, roll some balls in vibrant red or green sprinkles to add a festive touch. Return the shaped balls to the refrigerator and let them cool for one hour to maintain their perfect form.

Step 3: Melt Chocolate Coating

Set up a double boiler and carefully melt the chocolate chips and sweet chocolate. Stir gently and consistently over low heat until the chocolate transforms into a smooth, glossy liquid.

Be patient and avoid overheating to prevent burning.

Step 4: Dunk and Decorate

Take a fork and use it to delicately dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate.

Ensure each ball is completely and evenly coated. Gently place the chocolate-covered balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle festive decorations like mini holiday sprinkles or tiny seasonal embellishments.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Transfer the decorated truffles to the refrigerator and let them rest for approximately 30 minutes, or until the chocolate coating becomes completely firm.

For extended storage, transfer the truffles to an airtight container and freeze. When ready to enjoy, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes and serve these delectable holiday treats to delighted guests.

Helpful Hints for Making Krispie Balls Perfectly

  • Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
  • Use a small cookie scoop for uniform ball sizes, creating a professional look.
  • Prevent chocolate from seizing by keeping water away from melting process and stirring gently.
  • Store chocolate-covered balls in refrigerator for up to two weeks, maintaining their delightful crunch and flavor.
  • For nut-free version, replace chopped pecans with crispy rice cereal or crushed graham crackers to maintain the same texture and volume.

Ways to Customize Your Christmas Krispie Balls

  • Nutty Almond Delight: Replace peanut butter with almond butter, use chopped almonds instead of pecans, and coat with white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
  • Vegan Holiday Bites: Swap butter for coconut oil, use dairy-free chocolate chips, and substitute Rice Krispies with gluten-free crispy rice cereal to create a plant-based version.
  • No-Bake Chocolate Coconut Balls: Omit pecans, use only shredded coconut, and add a dash of coconut extract for an intensified tropical taste that still maintains the festive spirit.
  • Gluten-Free Christmas Treats: Use gluten-free crisp rice cereal, ensure all chocolate is certified gluten-free, and skip the sprinkles or verify their gluten-free status for those with dietary restrictions.

Best Pairings for Christmas Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls

  • Pair Festive Mulled Wine: A warm, spiced red wine with cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest complements the rich chocolate and nutty flavors of the Rice Krispie balls.
  • Recommend Creamy Eggnog: The sweet, velvety texture of classic eggnog balances the crunchy texture of the Rice Krispie balls and enhances their holiday spirit.
  • Select Holiday Coffee Liqueur: A smooth, sweet coffee liqueur like Kahlúa adds depth to the chocolate and provides a warming adult twist to the dessert.
  • Create Cinnamon Chai Latte: The warm spices in a chai latte echo the nutty, coconut elements of the Rice Krispie balls, creating a harmonious flavor experience.

How to Keep Christmas Krispie Balls Fresh Longer

Store Christmas Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep them in the coldest part of the refrigerator to maintain texture and prevent chocolate from melting.

Wrap each ball individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen balls will stay fresh for 2-3 months without losing flavor or quality.

Remove frozen balls from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. This gentle thawing prevents condensation and maintains their delightful crunch.

If desired, warm balls slightly in the microwave for 5-10 seconds on low power. Be cautious to avoid melting the chocolate coating completely.

FAQs

  • Why use Rice Krispies in this recipe?

Rice Krispies add a delightful crunch and texture to the chocolate balls, creating a satisfying contrast with the smooth chocolate coating and creamy peanut butter mixture.

  • Can I substitute pecans if I don't like them?

Absolutely! You can swap pecans with other nuts like almonds or walnuts, or omit them entirely if you prefer a nut-free version of these chocolate balls.

  • How do I prevent the chocolate balls from falling apart when dipping?

Make sure to chill the balls thoroughly before dipping, and use a fork to gently roll them in melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off before placing them on parchment paper.

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Christmas Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls Recipe

Christmas Chocolate Rice Krispie Balls Recipe


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4.6 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Festive Christmas chocolate rice krispie balls deliver sweet holiday cheer with minimal effort. Chocolate-coated marshmallow treats sprinkled with seasonal charm make delightful desserts you can quickly craft for family gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate and Peanut Butter:

  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 1 package (12 ounces / 340 grams) chocolate chips
  • 1 square (1 ounce / 28 grams) sweet chocolate

Binding Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup Rice Krispies

Texture and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup shredded coconut

Instructions

  1. Prepare the mixture by combining peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, Rice Krispies, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut in a large bowl, mixing thoroughly until well incorporated.
  2. Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to allow it to firm up and become easier to handle.
  3. Shape the chilled mixture into compact, uniform balls approximately 1 inch in diameter, ensuring consistent size for even coating.
  4. Optional: Roll some balls in festive red or green sprinkles for additional holiday charm.
  5. Return the shaped balls to the refrigerator and chill for 1 hour to maintain their structure.
  6. Create a double boiler and melt chocolate chips and sweet chocolate over low heat, stirring periodically until achieving a smooth, glossy consistency.
  7. Using a fork, carefully dip each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring complete and even coverage.
  8. Gently place the chocolate-coated balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing excess chocolate to drip off.
  9. While chocolate remains soft, sprinkle with additional holiday decorations or festive sprinkles for visual appeal.
  10. Refrigerate the decorated balls for 30 minutes or until chocolate sets completely firm.
  11. For extended preservation, transfer to an airtight container and store in freezer, maintaining their delightful texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Chill the mixture thoroughly before rolling to prevent sticky hands and ensure compact, well-formed balls that hold their shape perfectly.
  • Experiment with different nut variations like almonds or walnuts to customize the flavor profile and accommodate personal preferences or dietary restrictions.
  • Use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut oil for a vegan-friendly version that maintains the rich, indulgent taste of the original recipe.
  • Keep a small bowl of cold water nearby when rolling balls to prevent mixture from sticking to your hands, creating smoother, more uniform treats.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Chilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 277
  • Sugar: 17 g
  • Sodium: 56 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 14 mg
Ethan Caldwell

Ethan Caldwell

Founder & Culinary Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-table cooking, Seasonal recipe creation, Culinary storytelling, Food photography and styling​

Education

The Chef’s Academy (Indianapolis, IN)

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Focused on sustainable cooking practices, regional American cuisine, and recipe development.​

Ethan didn’t just fall in love with food, he grew into it, surrounded by fields, farmers’ markets, and family meals that told a story.
After sharpening his skills at The Chef’s Academy, he took his passion straight into the farm-to-table movement, working side-by-side with local growers and seasonal flavors.
He believes every recipe should feel like a walk through a summer market: colorful, fresh, and full of possibility.
Outside the kitchen, Ethan’s idea of a perfect day is hiking mountain trails, digging into heirloom vegetables, and hosting casual dinners where seconds are always encouraged.

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