Introduction
There’s a cozy, nostalgic pull to a warm pan of Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats—the sweet, toasty aroma of melted marshmallow mingling with the nutty perfume of peanut butter, the first crack as a fork lifts a bar, and that irresistible contrast between the airy crisp of the cereal and the chewy, slightly sticky bind. Take one bite and you’ll get the sugar-forward, comforting sweetness of a childhood favorite elevated by the savory depth and silk of peanut butter. These treats are simple, unfussy, and devastatingly easy to love.
This recipe is perfect for last-minute dessert needs, bake-sale contributions, or a quick afternoon pick-me-up with coffee. They’re also wonderful to prep for potlucks and kid-friendly parties: they travel well, please picky eaters, and can be dressed up or pared down depending on the occasion. If you enjoy playful variations, you might like this banana rice krispie treats variation for a fruity riff that’s just as comforting.
At a Glance
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5–7 minutes (melting and combining)
- Total Time: 15–20 minutes (plus 10 minutes to set)
- Servings: about 12 bars (9×13-inch pan)
- Difficulty Level: Easy — ideal for beginner bakers and busy cooks
Nutrition Highlights
Estimated nutrition per serving (1 of 12 bars). These values are estimates calculated using USDA FoodData Central values for the ingredients and rounded to sensible figures for home cooks. For precision in clinical contexts, run the exact ingredient brands and weights through a nutrition calculator.
- Calories: ~220 kcal
- Protein: ~4.5 g
- Carbohydrates: ~34 g
- Sugars: ~21 g
- Fiber: ~1.1 g
- Fat: ~8.5 g
- Sodium: ~120–180 mg (varies by peanut butter and cereal brands)
Notes on accuracy and sources: nutrient estimates were compiled using data from the USDA FoodData Central database (government source) and standard package nutrition facts for commonly available cereal and peanut butter brands. If you need exact values for dietary restrictions, plug exact ingredient brands and amounts into a trusted nutrition calculator or discuss with a healthcare professional (see resources such as the CDC and USDA for guidance on interpreting food labels).
Why You’ll Love It
- Flavor & Texture Highlights: The combination of crisp rice cereal and creamy peanut butter makes for a multi-textured bite: crunchy, chewy, and silky all at once. Peanut butter deepens the flavor profile so the treats don’t taste one-note sweet.
- Ease & Speed: If you have marshmallows and peanut butter on hand, you can have a pan ready in under 20 minutes—perfect for last-minute guests or quick after-school snacks.
- Social & Nostalgic Appeal: These bars evoke fond memories—perfect for family nostalgia, picnics, and holiday trays where crowd-pleasers are essential.
- Versatility: You can make them richer (add chocolate), lighter (use less peanut butter or portion smaller), or dietary-friendly with simple swaps.
How to Make Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 10 ounces (about 2 1/2 cups packed or one standard bag) mini marshmallows, or 5 cups large marshmallows
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular—see substitutions)
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal (or other puffed rice cereal)
Optional ingredients and substitutions: - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, enhances flavor)
- Pinch of salt (if using unsalted peanut butter or to balance sweetness)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped peanuts (optional mix-in or topping)
- For vegan: use vegan marshmallows and plant-based butter, and sub peanut butter with almond or sunflower butter as preferred
- For gluten-free: ensure cereal is certified gluten-free
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan (lightly buttered or lined with parchment)
- Large mixing bowl
- Saucepan and heatproof spatula or a microwave-safe bowl
Step-by-step Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Lightly butter a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Melt butter and marshmallows: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 3 tablespoons butter. Add marshmallows and stir frequently until just melted and smooth (about 3–5 minutes). Alternatively, microwave marshmallows and butter in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until melted.
- Add peanut butter: Remove from heat and immediately stir in 1/2 cup peanut butter until fully combined and silky. If using vanilla, add it now along with a pinch of salt if desired.
- Mix in cereal: Pour 6 cups Rice Krispies into a large bowl. Pour the marshmallow-peanut butter mixture over the cereal and quickly but gently fold with a spatula until the cereal is evenly coated. Avoid overmixing—work swiftly while the mixture is warm.
- Press into pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Use a buttered spatula or parchment paper to press gently and evenly into the pan—pressing too hard compresses the texture; aim for a light but even press.
- Add optional toppings: If you’re adding chocolate chips, sprinkle them on top immediately and press lightly so they adhere; they’ll melt slightly and create a glossy finish. For chopped peanuts, sprinkle and press in similarly.
- Cool and slice: Let the pan cool at room temperature for at least 10 minutes to set (or longer for firmer bars). Once set, lift from the pan using the parchment overhang and slice into 12 bars.
Practical tips:
- Work quickly—marshmallow mixtures set as they cool.
- If you prefer a firmer bar, refrigerate briefly (10–20 minutes) before slicing.
- To avoid sticking, rub your spatula or hands lightly with butter or nonstick spray before pressing.
Best Pairings
- Classic Pairing: Serve with a steaming mug of coffee or a bold black tea to cut the sweetness.
- Kid-Friendly: Pair with milk (dairy or plant-based) for an after-school snack.
- Dessert Board: Add these bars to a tray alongside brownies, fruit, and nuts for a mixed-sweets spread.
- Elevated Twist: Top with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for contrast.
- On the Go: Wrap individually in waxed paper to pack into lunches or picnic baskets.
Shelf Life & Storage
- Room temperature: Store airtight (in a sealed container or tightly wrapped) for up to 3–4 days. Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Refrigeration: You can refrigerate up to 7 days; note the texture may firm up and become chewier—bring to room temperature before serving if desired.
- Freezer: Wrap bars individually and store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before eating.
All Your Questions Answered
Q: Can I make these without marshmallows?
A: Marshmallows are the traditional binder. A substitute is to make a simple caramel (sugar + butter + cream) mixed with peanut butter, but that changes flavor and increases prep complexity.
Q: How do I avoid rock-hard or crumbly bars?
A: Don’t over-press the mixture into the pan. Pressing too firmly squeezes air out and makes a dense, hard bar. Also ensure you use the correct cereal-to-binder ratio (cereal to marshmallow mix above). Refrigerating too long can firm them excessively.
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
A: Yes—crunchy will add extra texture and peanut bits. Smooth gives a silkier mouthfeel.
Q: Are these gluten-free?
A: The basic ingredients (marshmallows, peanut butter, butter) are naturally gluten-free, but some puffed rice cereals contain malt (barley). Use a certified gluten-free puffed rice cereal to ensure gluten-free bars.
Q: How can I reduce sugar?
A: Reducing marshmallows will change texture. Consider using half marshmallows + half low-sugar marshmallow product (if available), reducing added chocolate, or cutting bars into smaller pieces to reduce per-serving sugar intake.
Pro Tips & Tricks
- Best peanut butter: Use a peanut butter you enjoy on toast—flavor matters. Natural peanut butter (stirred) lends a cleaner peanut flavor; regular commercial peanut butter provides sweetness and creaminess.
- Texture control: For chewier bars, use slightly more peanut butter (up to 2/3 cup); for crisper bars, reduce peanut butter slightly or press less.
- Even melting: Low heat is key when melting marshmallows to prevent scorching; if using the microwave, use short bursts and stir well.
- Pressing technique: Use a sheet of parchment paper across the top and a flat-bottomed measuring cup to press evenly and avoid sticking.
- Salt balance: A small pinch of flaky sea salt on top highlights peanut butter and balances sweetness beautifully.
Creative Twists
- Chocolate-Peanut Butter Swirl: Melt 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips and swirl gently through the mixture before it sets, or drizzle on top. For a ready inspiration, try this chocolate peanut butter twist.
- Nut-Free Alternative: Use sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter in place of peanut butter for those with peanut allergies.
- Fruity Crunch: Fold in 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries or dried banana chips for fruity contrast and color.
- S’mores Style: Layer graham cracker crumbs on the bottom of the pan and press the cereal mixture on top; sprinkle mini chocolate chunks into the hot mixture for a campfire vibe.
- Spiced Variation: Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne for a warm, unexpected note.
Conclusion
Give these Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats a try the next time you need an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert—then share your results and tweaks with the community to inspire others. For another take on peanut-butter-forward cereal bars, you can compare this recipe with the classic Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats – The Country Cook, and if you’re in the mood for a richer chocolate pairing, see the Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats – Just so Tasty version for more inspiration. Enjoy experimenting and don’t forget to tag your photos if you share them—happy snacking!
Print
Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A nostalgic, easy-to-make dessert combining crispy rice cereal with creamy peanut butter and marshmallows, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 10 ounces mini marshmallows (or 5 cups large marshmallows)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped peanuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lightly buttering it or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the marshmallows and stir until smooth (about 3–5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the peanut butter until fully combined.
- In a large bowl, pour the Rice Krispies cereal and add the marshmallow-peanut butter mixture, folding gently until coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press evenly with a buttered spatula.
- If using, sprinkle chocolate chips or peanuts on top and press gently to adhere.
- Cool at room temperature for at least 10 minutes, then lift from the pan and slice into 12 bars.
Notes
Work quickly when mixing and pressing to avoid the mixture setting too soon. Chocolate chips can be added for extra sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8.5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4.5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
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