Get ready to fall in love with the Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe, a no-bake dessert that strikes the perfect balance between chewy, gooey, and crispy. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes of hands-on time, you’ll be able to make snack bars that practically beg to be shared. The creamy peanut butter and melty marshmallows blend together into a dreamy mixture, coating every puffed grain for a treat that’s equal parts nostalgic and irresistible. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for after-school snacking, a bake sale, or just because, this recipe promises to deliver classic comfort with a twist that no one can resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe shines because each ingredient is simple yet plays an essential part in flavor and texture. From the crunch of the cereal to the sweet stickiness of marshmallows, every component is there for a reason—so don’t skip or substitute unless you really have to!
- Rice Krispies cereal (6 cups): The classic crunch and snap; these airy rice puffs are the backbone of texture.
- Creamy peanut butter (1 cup): Adds a rich, savory depth and lets the bars stay soft and chewy—choose your favorite brand!
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup): Lends richness and binds everything together, plus it helps prevent sticking.
- Mini marshmallows (1 package, 10 ounces): The magic glue that melts into gooey perfection, offering sweetness and chew.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): A touch of warmth and aroma takes the treats up a notch.
- Pinch of salt (optional): Balances out the sweetness and magnifies all the peanut butter flavor.
How to Make Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with either a soft pat of butter or a generous mist of nonstick spray. This simple step makes it a breeze to lift out the treats later—no sticking, no fighting with the pan, just smooth removal and even squares.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Peanut Butter
In a large, sturdy pot set over medium heat, combine the butter and peanut butter. Stir them together gently and patiently until the mixture melts into a silky smooth pool. This step is where all the peanut buttery goodness begins!
Step 3: Add Marshmallows
Toss in all the mini marshmallows, then stir and fold constantly. At first, it might look like a lot, but soon you’ll have a thick, creamy mixture, with the marshmallows melting down and binding beautifully with the peanut butter and butter. Turn off the heat as soon as the last marshmallow has disappeared.
Step 4: Stir in Vanilla and Salt
Quickly add the vanilla extract (and that optional pinch of salt, if you’re feeling adventurous). Stir it through for a subtle pop of extra flavor that makes the whole mixture sing.
Step 5: Fold in Rice Krispies
Pour in all your Rice Krispies cereal and use a sturdy spatula to fold the cereal into the marshmallow-peanut butter mixture. Take your time here, making sure every bit of cereal gets coated from edge to edge—don’t worry if it takes a little muscle!
Step 6: Press and Cool
Transfer the sticky mixture into your prepared pan and work quickly. Use a buttered spatula, your hands greased with a little butter, or some wax paper to firmly press the mixture into an even layer. Let the Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe set for about 30 minutes; once cool, they’ll firm up perfectly for slicing.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Garnishes
If you’re looking for a bit of flair or an extra pop of flavor, try drizzling the bars with melted chocolate, scattering mini chocolate chips on top while still warm, or even sprinkling some toasted coconut flakes or flaky sea salt for contrast. Each option complements the Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe with a special touch.
Side Dishes
Honestly, these treats are stars on their own, but they’re also fabulous alongside a tall glass of cold milk, a hot cup of coffee, or piled high with fresh strawberries and sliced bananas. Make it a dessert plate, or simply serve as a sweet snack between meals.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the treats into bite-sized cubes and skewer them on lollipop sticks, or sandwich a scoop of vanilla (or chocolate!) ice cream between two squares. You can even use themed cookie cutters to make shapes for holidays or parties—this Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is as playful as you want it to be.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe fresh and chewy, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days, making them easy to enjoy over a few snack sessions or pack into lunchboxes for a special treat.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze these treats! Simply layer the cut bars with parchment paper between each layer, then seal everything in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. The bars will keep for up to two months; just let them thaw at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before serving for best texture.
Reheating
While the Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is best enjoyed at room temperature, if they’re a bit too firm or straight from the freezer, give them a quick five seconds in the microwave. Just enough to soften them slightly and revive that gooeyness—don’t let them melt!
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?
You can, but natural peanut butters, which often separate and are less sweet, can sometimes yield a looser, oilier texture. If using, be sure to stir it up well and consider adding a few extra marshmallows so the bars set up nicely.
What’s the best way to cut Rice Krispie treats cleanly?
For perfect squares, use a very sharp knife lightly coated with nonstick spray or butter. Wipe the blade between cuts for those magazine-worthy edges—it’s a little effort that makes a big difference in presentation!
Can I add extra mix-ins to the Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe?
Absolutely! Mini chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, pretzel bits, or even dried fruit stirred in with the cereal can add an extra layer of crunch or flavor. Just be mindful not to overload, or your bars might not hold together quite as well.
Are these treats gluten-free?
Check your cereal to be sure: while many Rice Krispies cereals are gluten-free, some brands add malt flavoring. Opt for a gluten-free-labeled cereal to make this Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe safe for everyone.
Can I use jumbo marshmallows instead of mini?
Yes, you can swap in jumbo marshmallows—just chop them up for quicker, more even melting, and use about 40 large marshmallows to equal the 10-ounce bag of minis the recipe calls for.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe takes everything you love about classic cereal bars and dials up the comfort with creamy peanut butter and a hint of nostalgia in every bite. They’re the kind of simple joy that never goes out of style, so roll up your sleeves and make a batch—you’ll be surprised how quickly they disappear!
Print
Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats, a no-bake dessert that combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and marshmallows with crispy cereal. Quick and easy to make, these squares are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 package (10 ounces) mini marshmallows
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Melt Butters and Marshmallows: In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and peanut butter until smooth. Add mini marshmallows, stirring constantly until melted and creamy.
- Add Flavor: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and salt if using.
- Combine: Gently fold in Rice Krispies cereal until coated.
- Press and Cool: Transfer mixture to dish, press evenly, and let cool for 30 minutes. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- For a chocolatey twist, drizzle with melted chocolate or sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top while still warm.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
