These Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are a delicious and easy-to-make twist on the classic snack. With a creamy peanut butter flavor and a perfectly chewy texture, these treats are perfect for a quick snack, a party dessert, or a fun activity to do with kids.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Chewy: The combination of peanut butter and marshmallows creates a wonderfully chewy and flavorful treat that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these treats are a breeze to prepare.
- Versatile: You can enjoy them plain or add your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, pretzels, or sprinkles, for a customized treat.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats:
- Unsalted butter: At room temperature, for a smooth and creamy texture.
- Creamy peanut butter: Adds a rich peanut butter flavor and helps create a chewy texture.
- Pure vanilla extract: Adds a touch of warmth and sweetness.
- Mini marshmallows: Melt easily and create a gooey texture.
- Rice Krispies cereal: Provides a crispy and crunchy texture.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can grease the pan with butter.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Peanut Butter
Cut the butter into quarters and place it in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter starts to foam, reduce the heat to low and add the peanut butter and vanilla extract. Stir until melted and smooth.
Step 3: Melt the Marshmallows
Add the mini marshmallows to the pot and stir continuously until they are completely melted and no white streaks remain. Be careful not to burn the marshmallow mixture; keep the heat low and stir constantly.
Step 4: Add the Cereal
Pour in the Rice Krispies cereal and, working quickly, stir until the cereal is evenly coated in the marshmallow mixture. Be careful not to crush the cereal while stirring. A soft silicone spatula can be helpful for this.
Step 5: Set and Serve
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and spread it into an even layer, reaching the corners. Let the treats sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to set. Once set, cut into 24 squares and serve.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the quality of your peanut butter and marshmallows, the better the flavor of the treats.
- Don’t overcook the marshmallows: Overcooked marshmallows will be tough and rubbery. Melt them slowly over low heat and stir constantly.
- Don’t over-press: When transferring the mixture to the pan, lightly press it down to create an even layer, but avoid pressing too hard, as this can make the treats dense.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats
- Snack: These Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are perfect for a quick and satisfying snack.
- Party Dessert: Cut them into smaller squares and serve them as a fun and festive dessert for parties or gatherings.
- Lunchbox Treat: Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet and satisfying surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. However, they are best enjoyed at room temperature for optimal chewy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cereal?
While Rice Krispies are traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of cereal, such as Cocoa Krispies or Fruity Pebbles.
Can I add other ingredients to these treats?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, sprinkles, or other mix-ins to the marshmallow mixture.
Can I make these treats vegan?
Yes, you can use vegan butter and marshmallows. Make sure to check that your cereal is also vegan-friendly.
How can I make these treats without a stovetop?
You can melt the butter and marshmallows in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until melted and smooth.
There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
PrintPeanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are a delicious twist on a classic snack. Creamy peanut butter and fluffy marshmallows are combined with crispy Rice Krispies cereal for a sweet and satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 20 ounces mini marshmallows
- 10 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Instructions
- Prep Pan: Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease with butter.
- Melt Ingredients: In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Reduce heat to low and add peanut butter and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth. Add mini marshmallows and stir constantly until melted and smooth.
- Combine with Cereal: Pour in Rice Krispies cereal and stir gently until well coated.
- Set and Serve: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and spread evenly. Let it set for 30 minutes before cutting into 24 squares.
Notes
- Peanut Butter: Use any type of creamy peanut butter.
- Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows melt easily, but you can use regular marshmallows (chopped) if needed.
- Texture: Avoid pressing the mixture too firmly into the pan to maintain a soft texture. Do not refrigerate, as this will harden the treats.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 180kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg