If you love the comforting combination of peanut butter and chocolate but want a quick, fuss-free treat, then this No Bake Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe is your new best friend. These delightful little bites capture that classic flavor pairing in a chewy, crunchy, and utterly addictive form without ever turning on the oven. Imagine a sweet, silky peanut butter mixture hugging crisp Rice Krispies cereal, crowned with a melty chocolate kiss—this recipe is perfect for holidays, snacks, or anytime you need a homemade delight without the oven hassle.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this No Bake Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of texture and flavor that makes these treats so irresistible.
- Light corn syrup: Acts as the sweet, sticky base that helps bind everything together seamlessly.
- Brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that enriches the peanut butter flavor.
- Creamy peanut butter: Provides that classic, smooth peanut taste that’s key to these bites.
- Vanilla extract: Brings subtle warmth and rounds out the sweetness with its aromatic touch.
- Rice Krispies cereal: Offers the satisfying crunch and airy texture that contrasts perfectly with the chewy coating.
- Milk chocolate Hershey’s kisses: The crowning glory, melting gently into the center and adding that iconic chocolate finish.
How to Make No Bake Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Cereal
Start by pouring the Rice Krispies cereal into a large mixing bowl. Having it ready and set aside means you’ll be able to move quickly once your peanut butter mixture is ready, ensuring every crisp gets coated perfectly.
Step 2: Heat the Sweet Base
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the light corn syrup and brown sugar. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil, which helps activate the sugars to give your treats that perfect sticky texture. Once boiling, remove from heat so you don’t overcook it.
Step 3: Mix in Peanut Butter and Vanilla
Stir the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract into the hot syrup mixture until everything is smooth and well combined. This blend is the heart of the blossoms, imparting richness and flavor that will coat your cereal just right.
Step 4: Combine and Coat
Immediately pour your peanut butter mixture over the Rice Krispies in the bowl. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to gently, but thoroughly, mix everything so each cereal piece is evenly covered with that thick, peanut buttery goodness.
Step 5: Shape and Top
Roll the coated cereal mixture into balls about 2 inches in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool. Then, press a Hershey’s kiss into the center of each ball while still warm to create that signature peanut butter blossom look with a luscious chocolate center.
How to Serve No Bake Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe
Garnishes
Though the kisses are the classic topping, you can sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top after inserting the chocolate to enhance the flavor contrast. For a festive touch, dusting a little powdered sugar over the blossoms adds a snowy hint that’s perfect for holiday parties.
Side Dishes
No Bake Peanut Butter Blossoms shine as a sweet snack on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, a warm cup of tea, or even alongside fresh fruit for a little balance. They’re a fantastic treat for lunchboxes or to serve after a casual family dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, arrange these peanut butter blossoms on a colorful platter lined with parchment or festive paper. You can also individually wrap them in cellophane tied with a ribbon as charming party favors or gifts that will delight anyone lucky enough to receive one.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your No Bake Peanut Butter Blossoms in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to a week, making them perfect to prepare ahead of time for impromptu cravings or guests.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, pop the blossoms in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen, they maintain quality for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to bring back their soft, chewy texture.
Reheating
These delights are best enjoyed as they are—no heating necessary! But if you prefer the chocolate center to be a little melty again, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave works wonders. Just be careful not to overdo it or they might get too soft.
FAQs
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
You can, but creamy peanut butter will coat the cereal more evenly and result in a smoother texture. Chunky peanut butter may add extra bits but can affect the consistency of the mixture.
Is there a substitute for light corn syrup?
Yes, you can use golden syrup or honey as alternatives, but corn syrup gives the best sticky texture without altering the flavor too much. Using honey might add a subtle floral note.
Can I use a different type of chocolate for the kisses?
Absolutely! While milk chocolate Hershey’s kisses are traditional, dark chocolate or white chocolate kisses can give a delicious twist and suit different tastes.
How should I roll the mixture if it’s too sticky?
Lightly wetting your hands or spraying them with a bit of non-stick spray will help you roll the balls without the mixture sticking endlessly to your fingers.
What if my mixture cools and hardens before I finish shaping?
Warm it gently in the microwave for a few seconds and stir to soften, then continue shaping. Just be careful not to overheat or it could become too runny.
Final Thoughts
This No Bake Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe is a total game-changer for those craving a homemade treat that’s quick, simple, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re making them for a party, a snack, or just because, these little bites are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Give them a try and watch how fast they disappear!
Print
No Bake Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
Description
No Bake Peanut Butter Blossoms are a fun and easy treat combining crispy Rice Krispies cereal with a sweet peanut butter mixture, topped with a classic milk chocolate Hershey’s kiss. Ready in just 30 minutes, these no-bake bites are perfect for parties, holiday treats, or anytime you want a quick and delicious snack without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 4 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping
- 24 milk chocolate Hershey’s kisses
Instructions
- Prepare the cereal: Pour your Rice Krispies cereal into a large mixing bowl and set it aside to be coated later.
- Make the syrup mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the light corn syrup and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, ensuring all sugar dissolves for a smooth texture.
- Add peanut butter and vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine cereal and syrup: Quickly pour the warm peanut butter mixture into the bowl with the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir well to coat the cereal evenly before the mixture starts to set.
- Form the balls: Using your hands or a spoon, roll the mixture into balls approximately 2 inches in diameter. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Add the Hershey’s kisses: Press one milk chocolate Hershey’s kiss gently into the center of each peanut butter krispie ball while still soft.
- Cool and set: Allow the peanut butter blossoms to cool completely at room temperature so they firm up before serving.
Notes
- Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent the treats from sticking to the baking sheet.
- Work quickly when mixing and rolling the cereal mixture as it sets fast when cooling.
- You can substitute crunchy peanut butter if you prefer more texture.
- Store the peanut butter blossoms in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to keep longer.
- Ensure the peanut butter is thoroughly blended to avoid lumps in the mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
