The following “CHEW THIS!” column originally appeared in “The Courier-Times” and / or “The Shelbyville News” as well as other publications. Check their websites for further information or write to me for more details as to where this can be viewed.
Chocolate and Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Balls
How is everyone surviving this terrible heat? I have been basically living in my refrigerator for about 3 months. It is terrible! Do not get me wrong, I love the nice weather but this heat, I simply can not do. I am more of a fall person. Fall, spring, winter and summer. That is my favorite categories of the seasons in Indiana in order. But, of course, you have to remember we are in Indiana, so therefore there are several seasons. Such as false fall, summer number 2, fake spring and on and on. That is the pleasure and displeasure of living in Indiana. But, enough about the weather, let us get to the reason for this column. No bake desserts! Who wants to turn the oven on in this heat? I mean, I will but I do not want to. This recipe is the perfect no bake dessert to enjoy from the inside of an air conditioned house and sharing it with family and friends.
I love Rice Krispie Treats and have several recipes that I have shared here and on my website but these are my new favorites! A close second are the Rice Krispie Treats that are on my website that calls for a packet of instant vanilla pudding mix! They are fabulous. However, these are even more fabulous. A mixture of peanut butter swirled in also creates a sweet and salty flavor that really pairs well with the chocolate and cereal. I love these straight from the refrigerator but you can remove them and let them sit out at room temperature for about an hour or so before enjoying. Stay cool and enjoy!
Chocolate and Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Balls
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 cup smooth peanut butter
1 1/2 cups Rice Krispie cereal, crushed
1 cup powdered sugar
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon solid vegetable shortening
Start by lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl combine the melted unsalted butter and smooth peanut butter.
Add in the crushed Rice Krispie cereal and powdered sugar. Stir together well.
Form tablespoon size balls and place onto the prepared baking sheet.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
In a medium sized bowl add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and solid vegetable shortening. Microwave on high for 90 seconds, stirring every 30 seconds, until the chocolate is smooth and glossy.
Using 2 forks, dip the balls into the melted chocolate and roll to coat evenly with chocolate. Place the balls back onto the parchment paper lined baking sheet.
Place into the refrigerator to chill for about 30 minutes before enjoying.
Keep leftovers chilled and covered in the refrigerator.
Ask and Answer: How are you coping with this terrible heat? Any no bake cooking or baking recipes that you would like to share? If so, visit my website and leave me a message! Hope to hear from you soon!