Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
If you’re a fan of classic sweet treats with a nutty twist, then this Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. Combining the nostalgic crunch of Rice Krispies cereal with the creamy richness of peanut butter and melted marshmallows, these bars are delightfully chewy, satisfyingly sweet, and so easy to whip up. Whether you need a quick dessert for a party or a comforting snack to brighten your day, this recipe delivers that perfect balance of flavor and texture that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the short list of ingredients fool you—each component in this Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe plays an important role, creating that irresistible flavor combination and the perfect chewy-crisp texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Melts smoothly to bind all the ingredients and adds richness without overpowering.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Delivers deep, nutty flavor and creamy texture that defines the treat.
- 10 oz package mini marshmallows: Provides sticky sweetness and the gooey magic that holds everything together beautifully.
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal: Brings that classic, crispy crunch that keeps every bite exciting.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional): Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle warmth and complexity.
- Pinch of salt (optional): Balances the sweetness and intensifies the peanut butter’s natural richness.
How to Make Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your pan
Begin by greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish, or line it with parchment paper to ensure your treats come out easily without sticking. This simple step makes the whole clean-up process much smoother later on.
Step 2: Melt butter and peanut butter
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter together with the creamy peanut butter, stirring occasionally. Keep going until the mixture is smooth and blended—this will be the luscious base binding your treats.
Step 3: Add mini marshmallows
Next, toss in the mini marshmallows and continue stirring until they have fully melted and become a glossy, sticky batter. This gooey blend is what brings everything together with just the right chewiness.
Step 4: Flavor it up (optional)
If you’re feeling fancy, stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt right now. This adds a delicate depth of flavor and balances the sweetness, making the peanut butter stand out even more.
Step 5: Mix in the Rice Krispies
Remove your pan from the heat, then immediately add the Rice Krispies cereal to the mixture. Stir everything quickly and thoroughly so every piece of cereal is generously coated with that irresistible peanut butter-marshmallow goodness.
Step 6: Transfer and press
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or clean hands to press it down firmly and evenly—this compacts the bars so they hold their shape when cut.
Step 7: Let it cool
Allow the treats to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes until they firm up. If you’re in a hurry, pop them in the fridge for 15 minutes to speed things along.
Step 8: Cut and enjoy
Once cooled and set, slice the batch into squares and you’re ready to dive into these deliciously chewy Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your treats, try sprinkling a few mini chocolate chips on top just after pressing the mixture into the pan, or drizzle melted chocolate before cutting. Crushed peanuts or a dusting of powdered sugar can also add a fun texture and visual appeal, making every bite feel special.
Side Dishes
These bars pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a creamy iced coffee for those afternoon pick-me-ups. They can also be served alongside fresh fruit or yogurt to balance out the sweetness if you want to create a more rounded snack or dessert platter.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gifts, cut your Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats into fun shapes using cookie cutters and wrap them individually in wax paper tied with a colorful ribbon. You can also layer them with chocolate ganache or sandwich a little frosting between two bars for a decadent twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover treats in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to three days. Keeping them sealed prevents them from becoming stale or drying out.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead of time, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to one month and thaw quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
While Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are typically enjoyed cold or at room temperature, if you prefer them a little soft, gently warm them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This revives that gooey texture but be careful not to overheat, or they’ll become too sticky to handle.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a nice texture variation with little nutty bits, but creamy peanut butter helps the mixture blend more smoothly for an even consistency.
Is it possible to make these treats gluten-free?
Yes! Just make sure you use gluten-free Rice Krispies cereal, which many brands now offer, and check all other ingredients to confirm they are gluten-free.
Can I substitute the marshmallows with something else?
Marshmallows are key to achieving that classic chewy texture, but you could experiment with marshmallow fluff or even marshmallow cream. Keep in mind that substitutes may alter the texture slightly.
How do I get my treats to cut cleanly without sticking?
Letting the treats cool completely is essential. You can also lightly grease your knife or dip it in warm water between cuts to get neat, clean squares without dragging sticky bits.
Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Fold in chocolate chips, mini M&Ms, or chopped nuts right after mixing in the cereal for extra flavor and fun. Just be mindful not to overload the mixture, or it may become harder to press into the pan.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is a timeless, crowd-pleasing dessert that comes together quickly with simple ingredients you probably have on hand. Its irresistible combo of crunchy, chewy, and nutty flavors makes it a standout for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these as much as I do — they truly bring smiles with every bite!
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Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
Deliciously chewy Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats combine the classic crispy texture of Rice Krispies with the rich creaminess of peanut butter and marshmallows. Perfect as a quick snack or dessert, these treats are easy to make and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 10 oz package mini marshmallows
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Melt butter and peanut butter: In a large saucepan, melt the butter and creamy peanut butter together over medium heat, stirring occasionally until smooth and well combined.
- Add marshmallows: Stir in the mini marshmallows and continue stirring until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Enhance flavor (optional): Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to balance sweetness and add depth of flavor.
- Combine with cereal: Immediately add the Rice Krispies cereal to the peanut butter-marshmallow mixture and stir until all the cereal is evenly coated.
- Transfer and press mixture: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly with a spatula or clean hands to compact it evenly.
- Cool the treats: Let the treats cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes until set. Alternatively, refrigerate for 15 minutes to speed up the cooling process.
- Cut and serve: Once cooled and firm, cut into squares and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture; chunky peanut butter can be used for added crunch.
- For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the Rice Krispies cereal before mixing.
- Store treats in an airtight container to maintain freshness and chewiness.
- Optional vanilla and salt enhance but are not necessary for a great taste.
- These treats can be customized by adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
