Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

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Delicious Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats stacked on a plate.
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Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

Introduction
The first bite of a Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treat is pure, uncomplicated joy: the warm, nutty aroma of peanut butter meets the sweet, pillowy lift of melted marshmallows, and the crunch of toasted cereal gives way to a tender, chewy finish. The texture plays a delightful tug-of-war—crispy and airy, yet satisfying and slightly gooey—while the taste balances salty-savory peanut butter with bright, nostalgic sweetness. It’s the kind of snack that prompts a smile before you even swallow.

This recipe is perfect for busy afternoons, school lunches, potlucks, or a cozy movie night. Make a batch for a bake sale or tuck a square into a lunchbox for an instant pick-me-up. If you love cereal-based treats with a twist, you might also like this banana variation I wrote about earlier — take a look at the banana Rice Krispie twist for another fun spin: banana Rice Krispie treats with banana.

Dish Snapshot

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes (melting/mixing on stovetop)
  • Total Time: 15 minutes (plus cooling time)
  • Servings: Makes about 12 squares
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Highlights
Estimated nutrition per serving (1 of 12):

  • Calories: ~188 kcal
  • Protein: ~5.9 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~14 g
  • Fat: ~12.8 g
  • Fiber: ~1 g
    Notes: These values are estimates calculated from ingredient amounts using USDA FoodData Central entries for plain puffed rice cereal, smooth peanut butter, marshmallows, and unsalted butter. For general dietary guidance (daily calorie and nutrient targets), see resources like the U.S. CDC and Mayo Clinic. Nutrient totals may vary by brand (especially peanut butter and marshmallows), so adjust if you use natural peanut butter or reduced-sugar marshmallows.

Why You’ll Love It
What makes these treats irresistible is the triumphant pairing of peanut butter’s rich, savory depth with marshmallow’s nostalgic sweetness—a combination that appeals to both kids and adults. They’re fast to make (ready in under 20 minutes), require only a handful of pantry staples, and travel well—ideal for last-minute gatherings, lunchbox treats, or holiday cookie trays. For many, these squares also unlock memories—childhood bake sales, kitchen helpers with sticky fingers, and the simple comfort of a homemade sweet.

How to Make Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats
Ingredients:

  • 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • 1 cup (about 258 g) smooth peanut butter
  • 1 cup marshmallows (mini or roughly chopped large marshmallows)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
    Optional ingredients / substitutions:
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (if using unsalted peanut butter and you like a slightly saltier balance)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for extra flavor
  • Use crunchy peanut butter for texture, or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option
  • Swap to chocolate-flavored marshmallows or add 1/2 cup chocolate chips (stir in off the heat)
    Method:
  1. Grease a 9×13-inch pan lightly (or line with parchment, leaving an overhang for easy removal).
  2. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and marshmallows, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
  3. Stir in the peanut butter until fully incorporated and evenly combined with the melted marshmallow-butter mixture.
  4. Remove the pan from heat and immediately add the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir gently but quickly until all the cereal is evenly coated.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Using a buttered spatula or your hands lightly greased with butter, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. Don’t press so hard that the cereal is crushed—compact enough to hold together.
  6. Let cool at room temperature for about 30–45 minutes until set, then cut into 12 squares.

Practical tips:

  • Work quickly after adding cereal; marshmallow cools and becomes sticky.
  • If mixture is too stiff to press, warm it briefly (10–15 seconds) in the microwave to soften.
  • Avoid overheating marshmallows—melt slowly over low heat to prevent scorching.

Serving Suggestions

  • Classic: Serve plain at room temperature—perfect for lunchboxes, snack platters, or a grab-and-go dessert.
  • Extra buttered: Lightly butter the top of each square for a subtle sheen and softer bite.
  • With a drink: Pair with a glass of cold milk, or offer alongside coffee or tea for adult guests.
  • Dessert plate: Serve a square with fresh berries and whipped cream for a playful plated dessert.
  • For a peanut-chocolate pairing, try serving them with a chocolate-peanut-butter bar; for inspiration, check out this chocolate-peanut-butter treats recipe: chocolate peanut butter treats pairing ideas.

Shelf Life & Storage

  • Room temperature: Store airtight at room temperature for up to 3 days—keep in a tight container or wrapped individually in plastic wrap.
  • Refrigeration: Up to 1 week when wrapped or sealed (refrigerator can firm them; bring to room temp before serving for best texture).
  • Freezer: Up to 2 months when tightly wrapped in plastic and placed in a freezer-safe container; thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Pro Tips & Tricks

  • Peanut butter choice matters: Natural peanut butter will give a more pronounced nutty flavor but can make the texture slightly oilier; stir natural peanut butter well before measuring.
  • Temperature cue: The marshmallow mixture should be glossy and fluid—not boiling. If it looks grainy, it’s likely overheated.
  • Press gently: Over-compressing makes the treats dense and hard; aim for a compact but airy finish.
  • Add-ins timing: If using chocolate chips, fold them in off the heat to prevent melting into a thin streak—unless you want a marbled chocolate effect.

Creative Twists

  • Vegan variation: Use vegan marshmallows and plant-based butter; choose a vegan peanut butter (all are typically vegan).
  • Gluten-free option: Use certified gluten-free puffed rice cereal (some brands may contain malt flavoring).
  • Nut-free swap: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative.
  • Add texture: Fold in 1/2 cup chopped roasted peanuts or toasted coconut for crunch.
  • Chocolate swirl: Once pressed in the pan, dot with melted chocolate and swirl with a knife for a marbled top.
  • PB&J bar: Press a thin layer in the pan, spread a thin layer of your favorite jam, and top with the remaining mixture for a PB&J-inspired treat.

All Your Questions Answered
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?
A: Yes. You may need to stir well and accept a slightly softer, oilier texture. Chill briefly to firm if needed.

Q: My treats are crumbly—what happened?
A: Possible causes: not enough marshmallow binding (try a bit more marshmallow or warm mixture slightly), or over-pressing the cereal. Make sure cereal is evenly coated.

Q: Can I reduce the sugar?
A: Marshmallows are the primary sugar source. You could slightly reduce marshmallows and add a little honey or use lower-sugar marshmallows, but texture and set will change.

Q: How do I get clean cuts?
A: Use a sharp knife and warm it under hot water, wipe dry, and cut. For neat squares, chill briefly before cutting.

Q: Can I make these ahead for a party?
A: Yes—store airtight at room temp for up to 3 days or freeze portions for longer storage.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are fast, nostalgic, and endlessly adaptable—perfect for busy hosts and comfort-food seekers alike. If you want a tested step-by-step version from another home-cook perspective, see this reliable recipe roundup at Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats – The Country Cook. For a slightly different technique and tasty presentation ideas, check this flavorful take at Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats – Just so Tasty.

I’d love to hear how yours turn out—share a photo or tip in the comments so we can build a community of snack-makers who love simple, delicious treats.

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Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

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Description

Delicious and quick Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats, balancing crunchy and chewy for a perfect snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • 1 cup (about 258 g) smooth peanut butter
  • 1 cup marshmallows (mini or roughly chopped large marshmallows)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Grease a 9×13-inch pan lightly (or line with parchment, leaving an overhang for easy removal).
  2. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and marshmallows, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
  3. Stir in the peanut butter until fully incorporated and evenly combined with the melted marshmallow-butter mixture.
  4. Remove the pan from heat and immediately add the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir gently but quickly until all the cereal is evenly coated.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Using a buttered spatula or your hands lightly greased with butter, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan.
  6. Let cool at room temperature for about 30–45 minutes until set, then cut into 12 squares.

Notes

Work quickly after adding cereal; marshmallow cools and becomes sticky. If mixture is too stiff to press, warm briefly in the microwave. Avoid overheating marshmallows.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 square
  • Calories: 188
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 105mg
  • Fat: 12.8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5.9g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

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