If you have a sweet tooth and love that unbeatable combo of chocolate and peanut butter, then you are going to adore this Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispy Treats Recipe. It takes a classic childhood favorite and turns it into something a little more grown-up, indulgent, and irresistible. With gooey marshmallows, crunchy pretzels, and melty peanut butter all married into crispy cereal, topped off with a rich chocolate drizzle and candy pieces, this treat is the ultimate crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, yet absolutely essential to nail the perfect balance of gooey, crunchy, salty, and sweet in this recipe. Each one has a special role to play, from the smooth creaminess of peanut butter to the crisp snap of Rice Krispies and pretzels, all enveloped in rich melted marshmallow goodness.
- Salted butter: Adds richness and helps create that smooth, melty base binding it all together.
- Mini marshmallows: Melted for the classic gooey texture that’s absolutely essential in any Rice Krispy treat.
- Creamy peanut butter: Provides a luscious nutty flavor and velvety texture that complements the marshmallows.
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor with a warm, inviting aroma.
- Rice Krispies cereal: The crunchy base that gives the treat its iconic texture and lightness.
- Mini Reese’s (halved): Bursts of peanut butter-chocolate yumminess layered throughout the treat.
- Mini pretzels (crushed): Inject a fun salty crunch dimension that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Milk chocolate melting wafers or chips: Melted into a drizzle on top, adding a glossy, decadent finish.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispy Treats Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Butter, Peanut Butter, and Marshmallows
Begin by placing the salted butter, creamy peanut butter, and mini marshmallows into a large pot over low to medium heat. Stir continuously to ensure everything melts smoothly without burning. This warm, gooey mixture is what binds your treats together while infusing that signature peanut butter flavor.
Step 2: Stir in Vanilla and Fold in the Cereal
Once your marshmallow mixture is smooth and fully melted, turn off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract to elevate the flavor. Next, gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, making sure each crisp is thoroughly coated with the luscious marshmallow peanut butter mix. This step guarantees every bite delivers that perfect crisp texture.
Step 3: Press the Mixture into the Pan and Cool
Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal later. Transfer the mixture into the pan and press it down evenly with a spatula or clean hands (lightly greased to avoid sticking). Let it cool at room temperature. This resting period helps the treats set firmly, making them easier to slice later.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate and Drizzle
While your treats cool, melt the milk chocolate wafers or chips in 30-second bursts in the microwave, stirring in between for a silky smooth drizzle. Once melted, drizzle the chocolate generously over the surface of the pressed Rice Krispy mixture for that extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
Step 5: Sprinkle Pretzels and Mini Reese’s
Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle the crushed mini pretzels and halved mini Reese’s evenly on top. This not only adds eye-catching texture and color but elevates the flavor with bursts of salty crunch and peanut-chocolate candy in every square.
Step 6: Let the Chocolate Set and Cut
Allow the chocolate to cool and harden completely at room temperature or in the fridge if you’re in a hurry. Once set, slice the mixture into delightful squares that are as delightful to look at as they are to chow down. Now, your Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispy Treats Recipe is ready to devour!
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispy Treats Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra sparkle, consider garnishing your treats with a light sprinkle of sea salt or additional crushed pretzels on top before the chocolate sets. These touches highlight the sweet-salty contrast even more and make your treats look professionally crafted.
Side Dishes
These treats shine as a snack on their own but pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk or a cup of hot coffee or tea. Their richness balances beautifully against lighter beverages, making for a perfectly satisfying snack break.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress your guests, serve these treats stacked on a pretty dessert platter or wrapped individually in clear cellophane tied with ribbon for parties or gift-giving. You can also cut them into fun shapes using cookie cutters to match any celebration theme!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep your Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispy Treats fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This helps them retain their chewy texture without becoming stale or too hard.
Freezing
If you want to keep these treats longer, freeze them in a sealed container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They freeze well for up to 3 months, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert option for busy days or unexpected guests.
Reheating
While these treats are best enjoyed as is, you can briefly warm them in the microwave for about 10 seconds to soften the chocolate drizzle and intensify the melty peanut butter flavor before serving. Just be careful not to overheat, or they’ll get too gooey to handle.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?
Yes, natural peanut butter works, but since it tends to be less sweet and more oily, the texture and flavor might vary slightly. You may want to use a bit less oil or add a touch of honey for sweetness if desired.
What can I substitute for Rice Krispies cereal?
Other puffed rice cereals or even cornflakes can work as a substitute, but keep in mind the texture might change. Rice Krispies are preferred due to their iconic light crunch and stability when coated with marshmallow.
Can I make these treats vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the butter for a vegan butter alternative, use dairy-free marshmallows, and pick a peanut butter brand that fits your dietary needs. Just be sure to check the chocolate chips as well, since some contain milk.
Is it necessary to use salted butter?
Salted butter helps balance the sweetness and enhances flavor depth, but if you only have unsalted butter, just add a pinch of salt to the mix for the same effect.
How do I keep the chocolate drizzle smooth and shiny?
Melting the chocolate slowly in short bursts and stirring well helps avoid clumping and keeps it glossy. Avoid overheating and consider adding a teaspoon of coconut oil or vegetable oil for extra shine if desired.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispy Treats Recipe is more than just a snack, it’s a joyful little celebration you can whip up anytime to brighten the day. The layers of flavor, textures, and that irresistible peanut butter and chocolate combo make these treats totally unforgettable. I promise, once you try making these, they’ll become a go-to favorite the whole family will adore. So grab those simple ingredients and start creating this delightful treat today!
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Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispy Treats Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Deliciously sweet and salty, these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispy Treats combine gooey marshmallows, creamy peanut butter, crunchy Rice Krispies cereal, and rich chocolate with crunchy pretzels and mini Reese’s for a perfect no-bake dessert snack that’s easy to make and loved by all ages.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup salted butter
- 10 oz mini marshmallows
- ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Toppings
- 1 cup mini Reese’s (halved)
- 1 cup mini pretzels (crushed)
- ½ cup milk chocolate melting wafers or chips
Instructions
- Melt Butter, Peanut Butter, and Marshmallows: In a large pot over low to medium heat, melt the salted butter, peanut butter, and mini marshmallows together, stirring frequently until the mixture becomes smooth and fully combined.
- Add Vanilla and Cereal: Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, then gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until every bit is evenly coated with the melted mixture.
- Press Into Pan: Transfer the mixture into a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan, pressing it down evenly to form a compact layer. Allow it to cool and set for several minutes.
- Melt and Drizzle Chocolate: In the microwave, melt the milk chocolate melting wafers or chips in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate evenly over the top of the pressed rice krispy mixture.
- Add Toppings: While the chocolate is still warm and soft, sprinkle the crushed mini pretzels and halved mini Reese’s over the surface so they stick to the chocolate.
- Set and Serve: Allow the chocolate to fully set at room temperature or in the fridge, then cut into squares and serve fresh.
Notes
- For easier cutting, allow treats to chill in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes after setting the chocolate.
- Use parchment paper to line the pan to prevent sticking and make clean removal easier.
- You can substitute peanut butter with almond or sunflower butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Add a pinch of sea salt on top for an extra salty-sweet contrast if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
