Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are a decadent twist on the classic marshmallow cereal bar, combining creamy peanut butter in both the base and topping with a luscious swirl of melted chocolate. These no-bake, easy-to-make treats offer a perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and crunchy textures, ideal for parties, snacks, or dessert.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
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
- Prep the Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later. Set it aside while you prepare the Rice Krispie mixture.
- Make the Base: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and 1 cup of creamy peanut butter together, stirring frequently until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Add the mini marshmallows and continue stirring until they melt completely and the mixture becomes cohesive and glossy.
- Add the Cereal: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately fold in the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir quickly and thoroughly to coat all the cereal pieces before the mixture begins to cool and set. Transfer this mixture into the prepared baking dish and gently press it down with a spatula or wax paper to create an even layer without compressing it too firmly.
- Melt the Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the remaining 1 cup of peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and pourable. In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate chips using the same microwave method, stirring until fully melted and silky.
- Add the Swirl: Pour the melted peanut butter evenly over the Rice Krispie base, spreading it to fully cover the surface. Then drizzle the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer in lines or dollops. Use a toothpick or butter knife to gently swirl the two together, creating a beautiful marbled effect.
- Let Set: Allow the bars to set at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours until the topping is firm. Alternatively, refrigerate for about 45 minutes to speed up the setting process.
- Slice and Serve: Once set, slice the bars into squares using a sharp knife. For cleaner cuts, wipe the knife blade between slices. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for smooth texture and better melting.
- Greasing the pan or lining with parchment paper makes removing the bars easier.
- Press the cereal mixture gently to keep the bars light and crispy.
- Allow the bars to fully set for neat slicing and the best texture.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Keywords: Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats, Marshmallow Bars, Peanut Butter Chocolate Swirl, No-Bake Dessert, Snack Bars
