If you have a sweet tooth and love nostalgic treats with a grown-up twist, then you are going to adore this Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe. Combining the classic crispy, marshmallowy goodness of Rice Krispies with the irresistible flavors of rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and crunchy Butterfinger and peanut butter cups, these bars are a sensational treat for snack time, parties, or anytime you need a little happiness in dessert form. Each bite is a perfect harmony of texture and flavor that feels both familiar and exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because it uses simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients that work together to create a layered, delicious flavor profile. Each component adds either texture, sweetness, or a touch of richness, making these treats truly special.
- 8 cups chocolate Rice Krispies: These provide the classic crisp base with a hint of chocolate for extra depth.
- 3 cups mini marshmallows: They are essential for that chewy, sticky texture that binds everything together perfectly.
- 1 (11.5 ounce) bag fun size Butterfinger bars (wrapper removed and halved): Adding a crunchy, peanut buttery candy bar surprise throughout.
- 6 peanut butter cups (wrapping removed and quartered): More peanut buttery goodness and creamy chocolate pockets to discover in every bite.
- 10 oz dark melting chocolate (chopped): High-quality chocolate to melt smoothly and coat the mixture for a luscious finish.
- 2/3 cup creamy peanut butter: Brings a silky richness that complements the crunch and sweetness.
- 2 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: A natural sweetener that adds moisture and balances flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): A subtle warming spice that enhances the chocolate and peanut butter flavors beautifully.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by lining a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper. This simple step saves you from sticky situations later and helps you lift out the treats neatly once they are set. Set the pan aside while you prepare the rest.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate Rice Krispies, mini marshmallows, halved Butterfinger bars, and quartered peanut butter cups. Use your hands or a large spoon to gently toss all the ingredients together so the candy pieces are evenly distributed but not crushed. This step ensures every bite has some delightful surprises.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate and Peanut Butter
Set up a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Add the chopped dark melting chocolate to the bowl and stir continuously with a wooden spoon to prevent any burning or clumping. As the chocolate melts, stir in the creamy peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and the optional ground cinnamon, combining everything into a smooth, glossy mixture.
Step 4: Cool the Chocolate Mixture Slightly
Remove the bowl from heat and let the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture cool for about 5 minutes. This allows it to thicken mildly so it can coat the cereal mixture more evenly without melting the marshmallows completely.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the cooled chocolate peanut butter mixture over the cereal and candy blend. Stir gently but thoroughly, making sure each crisp rice puff gets a coating of the delicious chocolatey peanut butter sauce. Scrape the sides of the bowl often to incorporate every bit.
Step 6: Press and Chill
Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan and press it down firmly with a spatula or your hands to create an even layer. Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight so the bars set firmly and slice easily.
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Garnishes
For an eye-catching finish, consider sprinkling some crushed peanut butter cups or grated dark chocolate on top before the mixture sets. A drizzle of melted white chocolate adds visual contrast and an extra layer of sweetness. Fresh berries on the side can also brighten up the plate if you’re serving these at a gathering.
Side Dishes
These treats are indulgent all on their own but pair beautifully with simple accompaniments like a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. If you want to create a fun dessert platter, add some fresh fruit slices and nuts for variety and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the bars into fun shapes using cookie cutters for a themed party or package them in colorful treat bags tied with ribbon as gifts. You could also layer them in a clear trifle bowl with whipped cream and chopped nuts for a decadent dessert parfait.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cut, store any leftover Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them perfectly chewy and fresh without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to keep these treats longer, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen treats will maintain their quality for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
Since these bars are best served chilled or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you want to soften them slightly, warm for just 10 seconds in the microwave to soften the chocolate and peanut butter without losing their shape.
FAQs
Can I use regular Rice Krispies instead of chocolate ones?
Absolutely! Using regular Rice Krispies will still give you great texture, and you can add extra chocolate in the melted mixture for more chocolate flavor if desired.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Yes, by using dairy-free chocolate chips and skipping the peanut butter cups or finding dairy-free alternatives, you can make these treats suitable for a dairy-free diet.
Can I substitute the peanut butter with almond butter?
Definitely! Almond butter works well too. It will change the flavor slightly but still provide that creamy, nutty richness that complements the chocolate.
How long does it take for the treats to set in the fridge?
It usually takes about 4 hours for the bars to set firmly, but for the best cutting experience and texture, chilling overnight is recommended.
Can I add other mix-ins to this recipe?
Feel free to get creative! Chopped nuts, pretzel bits, or even shredded coconut can add interesting texture and flavors, but keep the quantities balanced so the bars hold together well.
Final Thoughts
Whipping up this Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is like bringing a little joyful magic to your snack routine. It’s fun, indulgent, and surprisingly simple, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends or treating yourself. Don’t hesitate to give it a try — once you do, these treats will surely become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.
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Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats combine classic crispy rice cereal with rich chocolate, peanut butter, and crunchy Butterfinger and peanut butter cups for an irresistible no-bake dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 8 cups chocolate Rice Krispies
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 (11.5 ounce) bag fun size Butterfinger, wrapper removed and bars halved
- 6 Peanut Butter Cups, wrapper removed and quartered
Wet Ingredients
- 10 oz dark melting chocolate, chopped
- 2/3 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper and set aside to make removing the bars easier after refrigeration.
- Combine dry mix-ins: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the chocolate Rice Krispies, mini marshmallows, halved Butterfinger bars, and quartered peanut butter cups until evenly mixed. Set aside.
- Melt chocolate mixture: Set up a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water without letting water touch the bowl. Add the chopped dark melting chocolate to the bowl. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon as the chocolate melts, taking care not to let steam or moisture escape into the chocolate.
- Add peanut butter and sweetener: When the chocolate is almost melted, stir in the creamy peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and optional ground cinnamon. Mix gently until fully combined into a smooth, glossy mixture.
- Cool the chocolate mixture: Remove the bowl from heat and let the melted chocolate peanut butter mixture cool for about 5 minutes so it thickens slightly and is easier to handle without melting the marshmallows.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the cooled chocolate mixture over the cereal and candy mixture. Stir carefully and thoroughly until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the chocolate peanut butter mixture. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to incorporate everything.
- Press into pan and chill: Transfer the combined mixture to the prepared parchment-lined pan. Press down firmly and evenly using the back of a spatula or your hands to compact the treats.
- Refrigerate sets: Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the bars to set and firm up.
- Serve: Once fully chilled, remove the treat slab from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into 12 bars or desired size. Enjoy your rich, crunchy Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats!
Notes
- Use high-quality dark melting chocolate for best flavor and smooth texture.
- The ground cinnamon is optional but adds a warm, subtle spice note that complements the peanut butter and chocolate.
- If you prefer, substitute maple syrup for the honey to make it vegan-friendly.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the bars hold together well after chilling.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week for best freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
