Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These treats are super quick to make, with just a few ingredients and no baking required. The peanut butter adds a smooth, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the marshmallow sweetness and crispy cereal texture. They’re great for kids and adults alike, and you can easily double the batch for parties or freeze extras for later.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rice Krispies cereal
• Mini marshmallows
• Creamy peanut butter
• Unsalted butter
• Vanilla extract
• Optional: pinch of salt, chocolate drizzle, or mini chocolate chips

Directions

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and peanut butter together, stirring until smooth.
3. Add the marshmallows and continue stirring until completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract (and salt, if using).
5. Quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, stirring until evenly coated.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it down gently into an even layer using a buttered spatula or wax paper.
7. Let cool at room temperature for about 30–45 minutes, or until set.
8. Slice into bars and serve. Add chocolate drizzle or toppings if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 16 bars.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cool time: 30–45 minutes
Total time: about 45–55 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate-topped: Drizzle or spread melted chocolate over the top before cutting into bars.
• Add chocolate chips: Mix in mini chocolate chips after stirring in the cereal (let the mixture cool slightly first).
• Use crunchy peanut butter: Adds bits of texture and crunch.
• Mix in peanuts: Add chopped roasted peanuts for extra crunch and flavor.
• Shape them: Press into cookie cutters or silicone molds for fun shapes.

Storage/Reheating

Store peanut butter Rice Krispie treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Thaw at room temperature before serving. No reheating required.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but make sure it’s well-stirred and not too oily, or the texture of the bars may become too soft or crumbly.

Why are my treats hard?

Overheating the marshmallow mixture can make the bars hard. Melt everything over medium-low heat and stir constantly.

Can I make these without butter?

Yes, you can substitute coconut oil or use more peanut butter for a slightly different flavor.

Can I use large marshmallows?

Yes, just measure them by weight or cups and be sure they melt completely.

Can I make them in a smaller pan?

Yes, for thicker bars, use an 8×8 or 9×9-inch pan instead of a 9×13.

How do I keep them soft?

Store them in an airtight container and avoid pressing them too firmly into the pan when shaping.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just use a larger pot and pan, and mix quickly to keep the cereal crispy.

Are these gluten-free?

They can be—just ensure your Rice Krispies cereal and marshmallows are certified gluten-free.

Can I add a layer of chocolate?

Yes, melt chocolate chips with a bit of peanut butter and spread over the top before cooling.

How long do they last?

Best within 3–5 days at room temperature. Freeze if storing longer.

Conclusion

Peanut butter Rice Krispie treats are the perfect blend of chewy, crispy, sweet, and nutty. They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether for a party, snack, or a nostalgic treat, these bars deliver flavor and fun with every bite—no oven required.

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

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Peanut butter Rice Krispie treats are no-bake, chewy cereal bars made with marshmallows, peanut butter, and crispy rice cereal for a delicious, nutty twist on the classic treat.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 45–55 minutes
• Yield: 16 bars
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: pinch of salt
• Optional toppings: chocolate drizzle or mini chocolate chips

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Instructions

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and peanut butter together, stirring until smooth.
3. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, if using.
5. Quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and gently press it into an even layer using a buttered spatula or wax paper.
7. Let cool at room temperature for 30–45 minutes until set.
8. Slice into bars and add optional toppings such as a chocolate drizzle or mini chocolate chips if desired.

Notes

• Do not overheat the marshmallow mixture to prevent hard bars.
• Use well-stirred natural peanut butter for a softer texture.
• Store in an airtight container to keep them chewy.
• To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 165
• Sugar: 13g
• Sodium: 95mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 5mg