Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Introduction

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful twist on the classic marshmallow cereal bar. Combining creamy peanut butter, melted chocolate, and crispy Rice Krispies, these bars are both rich and crunchy. They’re perfect for a quick snack or a sweet dessert.

Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (for the base)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows (about 5 1/2 cups)
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (for the topping)
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, if preferred)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier removal. Set aside while you prepare the mixture.
2. Step 2: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and 1 cup of peanut butter together, stirring frequently until smooth and fully combined. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until they melt completely and the mixture is cohesive and glossy.
3. Step 3: Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the Rice Krispies cereal. Fold quickly and thoroughly to coat all the cereal before the mixture cools and sets. Transfer to the prepared pan and press it down gently using a spatula or wax paper to create an even layer without compacting too firmly.
4. Step 4: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the remaining 1 cup of peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and pourable. In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate chips the same way, stirring until fully melted and silky.
5. Step 5: Pour the melted peanut butter over the base and spread it evenly to cover the surface. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top in lines or dollops, then use a toothpick or butter knife to swirl the two together in a marbled pattern.
6. Step 6: Allow the bars to set at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours, or refrigerate for about 45 minutes if you need them to set more quickly. The topping should be firm before slicing.
7. Step 7: Once set, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares. For cleaner cuts, wipe the knife blade between slices. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Tips & Variations

• Use parchment paper to line the pan for easier removal and cleaner edges.
• Try substituting crunchy peanut butter for added texture in the base or topping.
• Swirl white chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter, creamier topping.
• Press the cereal mixture gently to keep the bars light and airy rather than compact and dense.

Storage

Store the Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To extend freshness, keep them refrigerated for up to a week. Before serving, let refrigerated bars come to room temperature for best texture. Reheating is not necessary.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cereal instead of Rice Krispies?

Yes, you can substitute similar crisped rice cereals or even crispy oat cereals for a slightly different texture, but Rice Krispies work best for the classic light crunch.

How do I make the chocolate and peanut butter swirl neat?

Drizzle the melted peanut butter and chocolate in thin lines or small dollops, then gently drag a toothpick or butter knife through both to create a marbled effect without over-mixing. This prevents the flavors from blending too much and keeps the appearance attractive.

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

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Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are a delicious twist on the classic marshmallow cereal bars, combining the creamy richness of peanut butter with a delightful chocolate swirl topping. These no-bake treats are airy, sweet, and perfect for snacking or dessert.

• Author: Cleo
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 16 servings (1.5 x 1.5 inch squares) 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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For the Base:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows (about 5 1/2 cups)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, if preferred)

Instructions

1. Prep the Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier removal. Set aside while you prepare the mixture.
2. Make the Base: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and 1 cup peanut butter together, stirring frequently until smooth and fully combined. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until they melt completely and the mixture is cohesive and glossy.
3. Add the Cereal: Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the Rice Krispies cereal. Fold quickly and thoroughly to coat all the cereal before the mixture cools and sets. Transfer to the prepared pan and press it down gently using a spatula or wax paper to create an even layer without compacting too firmly.
4. Melt the Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the remaining 1 cup of peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and pourable. In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate chips the same way, stirring until fully melted and silky.
5. Add the Swirl: Pour the melted peanut butter over the base and spread it evenly to cover the surface. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top in lines or dollops, then use a toothpick or butter knife to swirl the two together in a marbled pattern.
6. Let Set: Allow the bars to set at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours, or refrigerate for about 45 minutes if you need them to set more quickly. The topping should be firm before slicing.
7. Slice and Serve: Once set, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares. For cleaner cuts, wipe the knife blade between slices. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Notes

• Use parchment paper for easy removal of the bars from the pan.
• Press the cereal mixture gently to avoid compacting, which can make the bars too dense.
• The topping can be adjusted to your taste by using milk or dark chocolate chips.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
• For a nut-free variation, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and ensure the cereal is nut-free.

Keywords: Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats, Rice Krispie Bars, Peanut Butter Dessert, No Bake Treats, Chocolate Swirl Bars