No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls: Your New Favorite Summer Dessert

Let’s be honest—when the sun is blazing, the last thing anyone wants is a hot kitchen. That’s why no-bake desserts are a lifesaver, especially in summer. If you love peanut butter, you’re about to meet your new obsession: sweet and salty peanut butter balls that come together in less than 45 minutes, no oven required!

Why No-Bake Treats Are a Summer Must-Have

No-bake desserts are quick, simple, and keep your kitchen cool. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of these peanut butter balls before your ice melts in your lemonade. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing—if you can resist eating them all yourself!

The Perfect Combo: Creamy, Crunchy, Sweet, and Salty

These peanut butter balls hit every craving. Creamy peanut butter blends with crispy rice cereal for a surprise crunch, while a dip in rich dark chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt take them over the top. Use smooth or crunchy peanut butter—either works, but smooth lets that crispy cereal shine.

Quick and Easy Recipe

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup (57g) butter

• 1 cup (240g) smooth peanut butter

• 1½ cups (170g) confectioners’ sugar

• 1½ cups (37g) crispy rice cereal

• 1 cup (170g) dark chocolate, chopped

• 1 tsp (5g) coconut oil

• Flaked sea salt or coarse kosher salt

Instructions:

1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt butter and peanut butter together in 15-second bursts, stirring each time, until smooth.

2. Stir in sugar and rice cereal until fully combined.

3. Scoop and roll mixture into 1-inch balls. Freeze for 20 minutes (do not freeze solid).

4. Melt chocolate and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl at 50% power, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.

5. Dip each chilled ball in melted chocolate, letting excess drip off, then place on parchment paper.

6. Drizzle any leftover chocolate on top and sprinkle with sea salt.

7. Chill in the fridge for 10 minutes until set.

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

Nut allergy? No problem! Swap in your favorite peanut butter alternative and enjoy the same great taste and texture.

Store and Savor

Keep your peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. But let’s be real—they’ll disappear long before then!

So, next time you crave something sweet, skip the oven and try these easy no-bake peanut butter balls. They’re the ultimate summer treat—cool, creamy, and totally irresistible!

BC Ferries Cracks Down on Damaged EVs: What’s Behind the Ban?

If you’re an electric vehicle owner in British Columbia, you’ll want to pay close attention before planning your next ferry trip. In a move that’s sending shockwaves through the province’s EV community, BC Ferries has just announced a ban on transporting certain electric vehicles. Why? It all comes down to safety—and some new rules from Transport Canada.

Why Are Damaged EVs Now Off-Limits?

The heart of the issue is the potential fire hazard posed by damaged lithium-ion batteries. When these batteries are compromised—think exposed battery packs, wiring issues, or leaking fluids—they can enter a dangerous state called thermal runaway. That’s when a battery’s temperature skyrockets, sometimes leading to uncontrollable fires or even explosions. These fires are notoriously tough to put out and can reignite long after they seem extinguished.

BC Ferries isn’t taking any chances. Under the new policy, any EV with major damage—especially to its battery system—won’t be allowed on board. Minor cosmetic issues like scratches or small dents might still get the green light, but only if the ship’s captain gives the okay. The focus is firmly on preventing any scenario where a battery fire could endanger passengers, crew, or the vessel itself.

Towed and Non-Operational EVs Face New Hurdles

The ban doesn’t stop at self-driven vehicles. If your electric car is inoperable and needs towing, it’s now barred from ferries as well. This change is especially tough for island residents who might need to get their EV to a mainland dealership for repairs. Previously, tow trucks could bring non-running EVs across the water, but that’s no longer an option. The only alternative? Private landing crafts—which can cost over $1,000 per trip.

No More Onboard Charging for Electric, Hybrid, or Alternative Vehicles

BC Ferries has also pulled the plug on charging EVs at terminals and on vessels. This rule applies to all electric, hybrid, and alternative energy vehicles. The aim is to reduce any risk of electrical issues or battery malfunctions while at sea.

What Does This Mean for BC’s EV Owners?

With British Columbia leading the country in electric vehicle adoption, these new restrictions are already causing frustration. Some local politicians and residents are calling for immediate solutions, especially since many islanders rely on ferries for essential travel and service access. Still, BC Ferries insists that safety must come first, given the unique risks posed by transporting damaged high-voltage vehicles.

Looking Ahead: Safety First, But at What Cost?

As EV numbers continue to rise, ferry operators and regulators face a tricky balancing act. Keeping everyone safe is non-negotiable, but so is ensuring fair access for all travelers. For now, if you drive an EV in BC, check your vehicle’s condition before heading to the ferry—and don’t count on a tow if you’re stranded with a major issue.

Key Takeaways:

• Damaged or inoperable electric vehicles are banned from BC Ferries due to fire risks from lithium-ion batteries.

• Towed EVs and onboard charging are also prohibited.

• Minor cosmetic damage may be permitted at the captain’s discretion.

• The policy aims to protect passengers and crew but creates new challenges for EV owners, especially on the islands