Jimmy Carter Peanut Butter Balls
Creamy peanut butter balls coated in chocolate almond bark, perfect for a sweet snack or party treat; they combine crunchy Rice Krispies with rich peanut flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend melted margarine, peanut butter, Rice Krispies, and powdered sugar with your hands until well combined.
- If the mixture doesn't stick together, add a little more peanut butter as needed.
- Form the mixture into balls and place them on a baking sheet; freeze overnight.
- Melt the chocolate almond bark in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth.
- Dip the peanut butter balls into the melted bark and place them on wax paper to cool and set.
- Once the coating is firm, store the peanut butter balls in a closed bag or container before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother blend, ensure your margarine is fully melted before mixing with the peanut butter. If you prefer a sweeter touch, you can substitute half of the powdered sugar with honey or maple syrup. For a richer flavor, consider using creamy peanut butter instead of chunky. If you want a fun twist, try adding mini chocolate chips or crushed nuts into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These peanut butter balls make for a delightful dessert or snack, perfect for parties or as a sweet treat after meals. Serve them alongside a glass of milk or coffee for a nostalgic pairing. They also pair beautifully with Best Ever Cinnamon Rolls for a sweet breakfast spread that everyone will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a softer treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jimmy Carter Peanut Butter Balls contains roughly 3159 calories, with 5g protein, 226g carbohydrates, and 254g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2386mg per serving (104% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of chunky?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but keep in mind that it may have a thinner consistency. You might need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar to help the mixture hold together better. Natural peanut butter gives a more intense flavor and can make the balls slightly less sweet.
How do I know when the chocolate coating is set?
The chocolate coating is set when it feels firm to the touch and has a slight sheen. This generally takes about 30-60 minutes at room temperature. If you're in a hurry, you can refrigerate them for about 15 minutes to speed up the process.
Can I add different flavors to the peanut butter balls?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding vanilla extract, cocoa powder, or even spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture. For a fun variation, try rolling the balls in crushed pretzels or coconut flakes before dipping them in chocolate for added texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).