Introduction

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are a delicious twist on the classic cereal snack. Combining creamy peanut butter, gooey marshmallows, and a swirled chocolate topping, these bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends and family.

The image shows a stack of three square bars with two clear layers. The bottom larger layer is golden brown with a chewy texture made of crisped rice cereal mixed with a sticky substance. On top, there is a smooth dark brown chocolate layer that looks firm and glossy, sprinkled with small white salt flakes. The bars are placed on crumpled white paper over a white marbled surface, while more similar bars are blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1 cup creamy peanut butter (for the base)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows (about 5 1/2 cups)
1 cup creamy peanut butter (for the topping)
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, if preferred)

Instructions

Step 1: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier removal. Set aside while you prepare the mixture.
Step 2: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and 1 cup peanut butter together, stirring frequently until smooth and fully combined. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until they melt completely and the mixture is cohesive and glossy.
Step 3: Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the Rice Krispies cereal. Fold quickly and thoroughly to coat all the cereal before the mixture cools and sets. Transfer to the prepared pan and press down gently with a spatula or wax paper to create an even layer without compacting too firmly.
Step 4: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the remaining 1 cup peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and pourable. In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate chips the same way, stirring until fully melted and silky.
Step 5: Pour the melted peanut butter over the base and spread evenly to cover the surface. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top in lines or dollops, then use a toothpick or butter knife to swirl the two together in a marbled pattern.
Step 6: Allow the bars to set at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours, or refrigerate for about 45 minutes to set more quickly. The topping should be firm before slicing.
Step 7: Once set, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares. For cleaner cuts, wipe the knife blade between slices. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Tips & Variations

Use parchment paper instead of greasing the pan for easier removal and cleaner edges.
Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk or dark chocolate to suit your taste preferences.
Add chopped peanuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for extra texture and flavor.
For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.

Storage

Store the Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to a week. If chilled, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly. These bars do not freeze well due to the topping texture.

How to Serve

The image shows several square rice crispy treats topped with a thick, smooth layer of dark chocolate. Each treat has two distinct layers: the bottom layer is golden and textured with puffed rice cereal, looking crunchy and sticky, while the top layer is a shiny, even sheet of rich dark chocolate with some small flakes of sea salt sprinkled on top. The treats are arranged on crinkled white parchment paper over a rustic brown surface, with the focus on two treats in the front and others blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but it may change the texture slightly and could be less smooth. Stir well before using to ensure even consistency.

How do I prevent the chocolate and peanut butter topping from melting too quickly?

Allow the treats to set fully in a cool place or refrigerate them before serving. Serving them slightly chilled helps keep the topping firm and prevents melting.