Introduction

These Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats combine classic crispy cereal with rich peanut butter and a decadent chocolate swirl topping. They’re easy to make, delightfully chewy, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends and family.

A stack of six golden brown crispy rice treats with visible white marshmallow bits, cut into square shapes and piled on a white plate. The top treat is slightly lifted, showing the textured layers of puffed rice and melted marshmallows inside. The plate rests on a light cloth with thin gray stripes set on a white marbled surface. In the blurred background, there is a small bowl. The focus is on the detailed, sticky, and crunchy texture of the treats. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1 cup creamy peanut butter (divided)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows (about 5 1/2 cups)
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 of peanut butter together, stirring frequently until smooth and fully combined.
Step 3: Add the mini marshmallows and stir until they melt completely and the mixture is cohesive and glossy.
Step 4: 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.
Step 5: Transfer the coated cereal to the prepared pan and press it down gently with a spatula or wax paper to create an even layer without compacting too firmly.
Step 6: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the remaining 1 cup of peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and pourable.
Step 7: In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring until fully melted and silky.
Step 8: 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 9: 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 10: 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 crunchy peanut butter for added texture in both the base and topping.
Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark or white chocolate to customize the flavor.
Add a sprinkle of chopped peanuts on the topping for extra crunch before it sets.
Press the mixture gently but evenly to avoid overly dense bars while ensuring they hold together.

Storage

Store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to one week. To enjoy, let refrigerated bars come to room temperature or warm slightly before serving to soften the peanut butter and chocolate topping.

How to Serve

A stack of six crispy rice treats sits on a white plate. Each treat is square-shaped with a golden-brown color from the crispy rice cereal, mixed with melted marshmallow bits that add white, fluffy patches throughout. The treats are dense with visible puffed rice grains, creating a rough, crunchy texture. One square is placed on top, slightly forward, highlighting its soft white marshmallow pieces inside. The plate rests on a light cloth with fine stripes, all set against a clean white marbled surface. 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?

Yes, natural peanut butter works, but it may make the mixture slightly less smooth as it can separate more easily. Stir it well before melting to combine the oils.

How do I prevent the bars from becoming too hard?

Press the cereal mixture gently rather than compacting it tightly. Also, avoid overcooking the marshmallow mixture to keep the bars soft and chewy.