Crunchy Peanut Butter Balls

1 cup peanut butter
1 jar (7 ounces) marshmallow creme
1-1/2 cups crisp rice cereal
1-1/2 cups (9 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
4 teaspoons shortening

In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter and marshmallow creme; add cereal and stir until well coated. In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave, uncovered, for 1-2 minutes or until chips are melted; stir until smooth.

Roll cereal mixture into 1-in. balls; dip in chocolate. Place on a waxed paper-lined pan. Refrigerate until set. Makes 2-1/2 dozen.