Prepare to meet your new favorite no-bake treat: the Donkey Balls Recipe. Imagine sweet and salty, peanut buttery centers studded with crispy rice and cloaked in rich, glossy chocolate. Each bite is a toothsome mix of creamy, crunchy, and melt-in-your-mouth goodness, perfectly sized for snacking or sharing at any gathering. You’ll only need a handful of pantry staples, and the result is so much greater than the sum of its parts. Whether you’re making these for a party, to satisfy late-night cravings, or as a fun family activity, this Donkey Balls Recipe always delivers a smile.

Ingredients You’ll Need
This Donkey Balls Recipe relies on simple, classic ingredients that work together to create texture, depth, and irresistible flavor. Each component plays a starring role, so choosing quality items will really shine through in every bite.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (12 oz): The smooth, bittersweet richness of semi-sweet chocolate keeps the coating from being overly sweet.
- Creamy peanut butter (1/2 cup): Creamy peanut butter brings that familiar, comforting nuttiness and a lush, smooth texture.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1/4 cup): Softened butter gives the filling extra creaminess and helps bind the mixture.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Just a splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors and adds an aroma that draws you in.
- Powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups): Powdered sugar sweetens and thickens the filling, giving it that signature fudge-like bite.
- Crispy rice cereal (1 1/2 cups): Adds a playful crunch and lightness, keeping these treats from feeling too dense.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Just enough salt to balance the sweetness and make all the other flavors pop.
How to Make Donkey Balls Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Creamy Base
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and stir together the creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mixing first ensures every bite of the Donkey Balls Recipe is rich, cohesive, and well-flavored.
Step 2: Sweeten and Thicken
Sprinkle in the powdered sugar and stir until the mixture becomes velvety and smooth. This is where the signature sweetness and body of the Donkey Balls Recipe really starts to come together—you’re looking for a thick, almost dough-like consistency.
Step 3: Fold in the Crunch
Now for the fun part! Gently fold the crispy rice cereal into your peanut butter mixture. Take your time to avoid crushing the cereal; you want to keep those delightful pops of crunch intact throughout the Donkey Balls Recipe.
Step 4: Shape and Chill
Scoop out small portions and roll them between your palms into bite-size balls. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then pop the tray into the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This chill time helps the Donkey Balls Recipe set up, making them easier to coat in chocolate later.
Step 5: Melt the Chocolate
While your peanut butter balls are chilling, pour the chocolate chips into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until silky smooth. This technique keeps the chocolate from burning and ensures an even, glossy dip for your Donkey Balls Recipe.
Step 6: Dip, Coat, and Set
One by one, dunk each chilled ball into the melted chocolate, making sure every inch is covered. Lay them back on the parchment and return to the fridge for another 15–20 minutes. The chocolate will firm up into a snappy, shiny shell, giving each Donkey Ball its signature look and satisfying bite!
How to Serve Donkey Balls Recipe

Garnishes
A simple garnish can make your Donkey Balls Recipe look extra special. Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt, a dusting of crushed peanuts, or colorful sprinkles over the tops to add visual flair and a little flavor boost.
Side Dishes
While Donkey Balls stand out on their own as a sweet treat, they pair beautifully with fresh fruit platters, a tall glass of icy cold milk, or a cup of strong coffee. For parties, arrange alongside other no-bake bites to create a fun dessert sampler.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your presentation by piling Donkey Balls Recipe treats into a decorative bowl or on a tiered dessert stand. For gift-giving, tuck them into mini cupcake liners and arrange in a festive box—perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just because. Add little tags or try skewering a few on sticks for a “cake pop” twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extras from your Donkey Balls Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to one week, maintaining their crunch and rich chocolate shell.
Freezing
These treats freeze exceptionally well! Simply arrange your Donkey Balls Recipe in a single layer on a baking tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw a few in the fridge whenever cravings strike—they’ll taste just like new.
Reheating
No reheating needed—just let your Donkey Balls Recipe sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes if they’re coming straight from the fridge or freezer, and they’ll be perfectly ready to enjoy!
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds even more texture to your Donkey Balls Recipe. You’ll get extra little nutty bits in every bite—just stir carefully to keep the mixture manageable when rolling into balls.
How can I make this Donkey Balls Recipe nut-free?
Try using sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter in place of peanut butter. Be sure to choose a version that’s not too oily or runny, and check your crispy rice cereal for cross-contamination warnings if serving to those with allergies.
What’s the best way to melt the chocolate without burning it?
Use a microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until the chocolate is smooth. Alternatively, you can use a double boiler: gently heat the chocolate over simmering water, stirring constantly for a silky finish.
Can I make these ahead for a party or holiday gift?
Yes! The Donkey Balls Recipe is make-ahead friendly. Prepare them up to several days in advance, store as suggested, and they’ll be ready for gifting, sharing, or serving at your celebration.
What are some fun flavor variations?
For a Hawaiian-inspired twist, tuck a chopped macadamia nut inside each ball before rolling. Or, swap out vanilla extract for almond or hazelnut extract, drizzle with white chocolate, or stir in mini marshmallows for a s’mores vibe!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a sweet, nostalgic treat that’s easy and fun to make, this Donkey Balls Recipe is the answer. Their mix of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness is pretty much irresistible. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and give these bite-sized delights a try. You’ll soon see why they’re a beloved favorite!
Print
Donkey Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 24 balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delicious and easy-to-make Donkey Balls, a delightful treat combining chocolate, peanut butter, and crispy rice cereal. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert!
Ingredients
For the Balls:
- 1 package (12 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in powdered sugar until smooth. Gently fold in crispy rice cereal.
- Form Balls: Roll mixture into small balls and place on parchment-lined sheet.
- Chill: Refrigerate balls for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Melt Chocolate: Microwave chocolate chips in intervals, dip chilled balls in melted chocolate, and refrigerate until set.
- Storage: Store in airtight container in the fridge.
Notes
- You can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- For a Hawaiian-style twist, try adding chopped macadamia nuts inside each ball before rolling.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg