If you are anything like me and love that perfect mix of sweet and salty in a nostalgic treat, then this Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine the classic crispy leftover goodness of Rice Krispies treats, now kicked up a notch with creamy peanut butter and just the right pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness. These treats are not only incredibly simple to make but also deliver that gooey, crunchy, salty-sweet sensation in every bite. Trust me, once you take a bite of these, you’ll want to make them again and again.

Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe is straightforward but vital. From the creamy peanut butter that brings rich flavor, to the marshmallows creating that iconic gooey texture, each component plays a part in making this snack out of this world.

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Use natural or regular, just make sure it’s smooth to blend perfectly with the marshmallows.
1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds a rich, velvety base without extra salt competing with the salty topping.
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: A subtle touch that enhances all the flavors.
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt: This fine sea salt mixed in brings out depth in both the peanut butter and marshmallows.
10 oz marshmallows (mini or regular): The glue that holds it all together with that irresistible chewiness.
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal: For that classic crispy crunch that makes these treats so special.
Flaky sea salt (optional, for topping): Sprinkled on top for an extra pop of salty crunch you’ll savor.

How to Make Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Start by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch pan with butter or cooking spray. This simple step ensures your rice krispies treats won’t stick and makes clean-up a breeze once they’ve set and are ready to be sliced.

Step 2: Melt the Base

In a large pot over medium heat, melt together the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter. Stir consistently until the mixture becomes smooth and fully combined. This peanut butter and butter blend forms the luscious foundation that binds all the ingredients together.

Step 3: Add Marshmallows

Once your peanut butter and butter mixture is silky, add the marshmallows. Stir constantly while the marshmallows melt into a stretchy, gooey delight. This step is key for that perfect chewy texture everyone loves in Rice Krispies treats.

Step 4: Boost the Flavor

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and fine sea salt. These flavor boosters lift and balance the sweetness, giving your Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe a sophisticated twist that makes each bite exciting.

Step 5: Mix in the Rice Krispies

Carefully add the Rice Krispies cereal to the pot and gently fold it in until every crispy piece is coated in that beautiful peanut butter marshmallow mixture. Take your time here to avoid smooshing the cereal too much and keep the crispy texture intact.

Step 6: Press Into the Pan

Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan and press it down gently using a greased spatula or oiled hands. This step helps the treats stick together while keeping them light and crispy, not dense or heavy.

Step 7: Add Flaky Salt Topping

Before the treats cool and set, sprinkle the top with flaky sea salt. This little bit of salt is the signature finish on your Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe, delivering that irresistible salty crunch that contrasts perfectly with the sweet, peanut buttery base.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This resting time helps them set firmly, so when you slice into squares, they hold together beautifully while still being soft enough to bite into with ease.

How to Serve Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe

Garnishes

If you want to fancy up your treats, a light drizzle of melted chocolate or chopped roasted peanuts on top can enhance the flavor and make the presentation more impressive. Fresh fruit on the side adds a refreshing contrast too.

Side Dishes

Although these treats are perfect on their own, pairing them with a cold glass of milk or a cup of hot coffee or tea makes for a wonderful snack break or dessert combination that perfectly complements the peanut butter’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting these treats into fun shapes using cookie cutters for parties or celebrations, or layer them with whipped cream and banana slices in a parfait glass for a playful twist. These ideas make your Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe exciting and suitable for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and chewy. They will stay delicious for up to three days, making them great for quick snacks throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this recipe well beyond a few days, you can freeze the treats. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They freeze well for up to a month, so you can always have a sweet snack waiting when you need it.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy after freezing, thaw the treats at room temperature for about an hour. If you prefer a warmer treat, a few seconds in the microwave will soften them without melting them completely—just be careful not to overheat as they can become sticky.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a little extra texture and nutty flavor to your Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe. Just be aware it may affect the smoothness slightly, but many people love the added crunch.

Is it necessary to add salt?

The salt is what makes this recipe stand out by balancing the sweetness with a savory note. However, you can reduce or omit it if you prefer sweeter treats, though it’s worth trying with the salt for a richer flavor experience.

Can I substitute Rice Krispies with another cereal?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other crispy cereals like cornflakes or Cheerios, but keep in mind the texture and flavor might change slightly, and the treats could be less traditional.

What if I don’t have flaky sea salt for the topping?

Regular coarse salt can work in a pinch, but flaky sea salt adds a delicate crunch and melts more pleasantly on the tongue. You can also skip the topping if you’d prefer a sweeter finish.

How do I get the treats to come out perfectly square?

Pressing the mixture evenly into the pan with a greased spatula and letting them cool completely before slicing helps ensure clean edges. Using a sharp knife and wiping it clean between cuts also makes slicing easier.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about how this Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe takes a beloved classic to new heights. Each bite brings that treasured childhood nostalgia with a grown-up twist of salty, nutty goodness. Whether you’re making it for a quick snack, a party treat, or just because, I promise you’ll fall head over heels just like I did. Go ahead and make a batch today—your taste buds will thank you!

Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe

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4 from 88 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats combine the classic crispy marshmallow snack with a rich peanut butter twist and a hint of sea salt for a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. These no-bake treats are easy to prepare and make a delightful snack or dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
10 oz marshmallows (mini or regular)

Flavorings

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

Cereal

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal

Topping (Optional)

Flaky sea salt (for topping)

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Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan using butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set aside while you prepare the mixture.
Melt the Base: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter together with the creamy peanut butter, stirring until the mixture becomes smooth and combined. Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until they have fully melted and integrated into the mixture.
Flavor Boost: Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract and fine sea salt to enhance the treat’s flavor profile.
Mix It Up: Add the 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal to the pot and gently fold it into the melted marshmallow and peanut butter mixture until all the cereal is evenly coated.
Press Into Pan: Transfer the sticky mixture to the prepared pan. Using a greased spatula or oiled hands, press down the mixture gently but firmly to create an even layer.
Add Flaky Salt: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top of the warm treats for an extra salty crunch, if desired.
Cool and Slice: Let the treats cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes until set. Once firm, slice the mixture into squares and serve.

Notes

Use natural or regular creamy peanut butter depending on your preference; natural peanut butter may result in a slightly different texture.
For easier pressing, lightly grease your spatula or hands to prevent sticking.
Flaky sea salt topping is optional but highly recommended for enhancing the salty-sweet contrast.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American