Description

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful twist on the classic marshmallow cereal bars, featuring a rich peanut butter base combined with gooey marshmallows and crispy Rice Krispies cereal. Topped with a creamy peanut butter and melted chocolate swirl, these bars offer a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors with a satisfying crunch. Ideal for dessert, snacks, or parties, they are easy to make and sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Base:

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows (about 5 1/2 cups)

For the Topping:

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, if preferred)

Instructions

Prep the Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier removal. Set aside while you prepare the mixture.
Make the Base: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and peanut butter together, stirring frequently until smooth and fully combined. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until they melt completely and the mixture is cohesive and glossy.
Add the Cereal: Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the Rice Krispies cereal. Fold quickly and thoroughly to coat all the cereal before the mixture cools and sets. Transfer to the prepared pan and press it down gently using a spatula or wax paper to create an even layer without compacting too firmly.
Melt the Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the remaining 1 cup of peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and pourable. In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate chips the same way, stirring until fully melted and silky.
Add the Swirl: Pour the melted peanut butter over the base and spread it evenly to cover the surface. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top in lines or dollops, then use a toothpick or butter knife to swirl the two together in a marbled pattern.
Let Set: Allow the bars to set at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours, or refrigerate for about 45 minutes if you need them to set more quickly. The topping should be firm before slicing.
Slice and Serve: Once set, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares. For cleaner cuts, wipe the knife blade between slices. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Notes

For easier removal, lining the pan with parchment paper is recommended.
Do not over-compact the cereal mixture when pressing into the pan to keep the treats light and crispy.
Microwave the peanut butter and chocolate chips in short intervals to prevent burning and ensure smooth melting.
The bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
For a vegan version, use vegan marshmallows and chocolate chips.
Allowing the bars to set fully ensures clean slicing without crumbling.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: No-Bake Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats, Rice Krispie Bars, Peanut Butter Desserts, Marshmallow Treats, No-Bake Bars, Easy Dessert Recipes, Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl