Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
These Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats combine the classic chewy texture of Rice Krispies with the rich flavors of creamy peanut butter and a smooth chocolate topping. Perfect for a quick, no-bake dessert that’s both nostalgic and indulgent.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons salted butter, room temperature, divided
- ⅔ cup creamy peanut butter (Peter Pan brand recommended)
- 10 ounce bag marshmallows
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Topping
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips (approximately 1½ (11.5-ounce) bags)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of the salted butter and set aside.
- Melt Butter, Peanut Butter, and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter, peanut butter, and marshmallows together. Stir frequently to prevent burning. This process will take 3 to 5 minutes until smooth and combined.
- Add Vanilla and Cereal: Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the vanilla extract followed by the Rice Krispies cereal. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Spread Mixture: Transfer the peanut butter and Rice Krispie mixture into the prepared baking dish. Gently press it into an even layer without compressing too tightly to maintain a light and chewy texture.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the milk chocolate chips by microwaving for 1 minute at 50% power. Stir well then continue melting in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until completely smooth. Avoid overheating to prevent chocolate from seizing.
- Add Chocolate Topping: Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the peanut butter Rice Krispie layer in the baking dish.
- Chill: Allow the treats to chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour until the chocolate topping firms up.
- Serve: Once chilled and firm, cut into bars and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Notes
- You can halve the recipe and use an 8×8 inch pan if fewer treats are desired.
- Spray your hands or utensils lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking while mixing.
- If preferred, melt chocolate on a stovetop over low heat or double boiler rather than microwave to avoid overheating.
- Store treats refrigerated to maintain freshness and chewiness, great for lunchboxes.
- When stacking stored treats, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Keywords: Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats, no bake dessert, peanut butter treats, chocolate topped Rice Krispies, quick easy dessert
