Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

These peanut butter rice krispie treats are a delightful twist on the classic marshmallow bars. Chewy, sweet, and packed with nutty flavor, they are simple to prepare and make the perfect no-bake dessert for gatherings, lunch boxes, or a quick snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-bake and ready in minutes.

• Combines creamy peanut butter with gooey marshmallows for a perfect balance of flavors.

• A great treat for both kids and adults.

• Easily adaptable with chocolate, toppings, or mix-ins.

• Stores well and can be made ahead for convenience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rice Krispies cereal

• Mini marshmallows

• Creamy peanut butter

• Unsalted butter

• Vanilla extract

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.

2. Add the peanut butter and stir until smooth and fully combined.

3. Stir in the marshmallows and cook gently until completely melted and smooth.

4. Remove from heat and add the vanilla extract.

5. Stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated with the marshmallow-peanut butter mixture.

6. Transfer the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan.

7. Press down gently with a spatula or wax paper to even out the surface without compacting too much.

8. Allow to cool and set for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

Servings and timing

• Servings: About 16 squares

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Cooling time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate drizzle: Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled bars.

• Double peanut butter: Add peanut butter chips along with the cereal for extra richness.

• Nutty crunch: Mix in chopped peanuts, almonds, or cashews for added texture.

• Butterscotch version: Replace some marshmallows with butterscotch chips for a caramel-like flavor.

• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free puffed rice cereal.

Storage/Reheating

Store the peanut butter rice krispie treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 1 week, though they may become firmer. To soften, allow them to sit at room temperature before serving. Freezing is possible: wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.

FAQs

1. Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but it may make the treats slightly looser since natural peanut butter has more oil. Stir well before using for best results.

2. Can I substitute almond butter or other nut butters?

Absolutely. Almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter can be used as alternatives.

3. How do I prevent the treats from sticking to my hands when pressing them into the pan?

Lightly grease your hands or a piece of wax paper with butter or cooking spray to press the mixture evenly without sticking.

4. Can I reduce the marshmallows to make them less sweet?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly drier. You can balance this by adding an extra tablespoon of peanut butter.

5. How long do they need to cool before cutting?

At least 30 minutes is recommended to allow them to firm up enough to slice cleanly.

6. Can I add chocolate chips directly into the mixture?

Yes, but let the marshmallow mixture cool slightly first so the chocolate chips do not fully melt.

7. What size pan should I use?

An 8×8-inch pan yields thicker treats, while a 9×13-inch pan creates thinner bars.

8. Are these gluten-free?

Rice Krispies cereal contains malt flavoring, which has gluten. For a gluten-free version, use a certified gluten-free puffed rice cereal.

9. Can I make these vegan?

Yes. Use a dairy-free butter alternative, vegan marshmallows, and a plant-based nut butter.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Certainly. Prepare in a larger pan or two smaller pans, ensuring you mix thoroughly so the cereal is evenly coated.

Conclusion

Peanut butter rice krispie treats are a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines classic flavors with minimal effort. Whether you enjoy them plain, drizzled with chocolate, or packed with extra crunch, these bars are versatile, nostalgic, and perfect for any occasion

Print