Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats

Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 treats
Ingredients: 3 cups Rice Crispy cereal; 2 cups mini marshmallows; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats because they bring back amazing memories of my childhood. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is simply irresistible, and I find myself sneaking bites even when I promise to share with family and friends. This treat is not only quick to make but also offers a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch that keeps everyone coming back for more. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up these delights in no time!

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:19:11.512Z

Making these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats was a delightful journey for me. I wanted something quick yet indulgent, and this recipe hit all the right notes. As I melted the chocolate and peanut butter together, the rich aroma filled my kitchen, instantly boosting my mood.

One important tip I discovered is to use fresh marshmallows for maximum stickiness and flavor. Mixing everything together can be a bit sticky, but that's the beauty of it! Watching the marshmallows bind the crispy rice into chewy, chocolatey goodness is a joy in itself.

        Why You'll Love These Treats
        Irresistible combination of chocolate and peanut butter
Quick and easy to make with minimal cleanup
Perfect for parties or a sweet snack

      

Mastering the Melting Process

The key to achieving a perfectly smooth and glossy chocolate peanut butter mixture lies in the melting process. Using low heat is essential as it prevents the chocolate from seizing or the peanut butter from burning. Stir the mixture continuously to ensure even melting and to avoid any hotspots, which can lead to clumping. Once the butter, chocolate, and peanut butter are fully melted and combined, you’ll notice a beautiful, shiny texture—a sign that you’re ready to move on to the marshmallows.

It’s crucial to incorporate the mini marshmallows quickly after melting. The residual heat should be enough to soften them, allowing for an effortless mix. However, if you notice that they aren’t melting adequately, consider placing the saucepan back on the stove for just a few seconds, stirring constantly until they’re fully incorporated.

Perfecting the Texture

When combining the Rice Crispy cereal with the melted mixture, the goal is to achieve an even coating without crushing the cereal. Gently fold the cereal into the marshmallow-chocolate mix rather than stirring vigorously. This technique helps maintain the light and crispy texture, which is essential for a satisfying bite. You’ll know it’s ready when the cereal is fully coated and the mixture clings together without being overly sticky.

After pressing the mixture into the greased pan, I recommend using a piece of parchment paper to gently press down. This not only prevents sticking but also ensures an even thickness throughout. Allow the treats to cool for about 10 minutes, but keep an eye on them! If they cool too long, they can become difficult to cut into squares.

Ingredients

For the Treats

3 cups Rice Crispy cereal
2 cups mini marshmallows
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup chocolate chips
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Steps to Prepare

Melt the Mixture

In a saucepan over low heat, combine the butter, peanut butter, and chocolate chips. Stir continuously until melted and smooth.

Mix with Marshmallows

Add the mini marshmallows to the melted mixture and stir until they are fully melted and well combined.

Combine with Rice Crispy Cereal

Remove from heat and quickly mix in the Rice Crispy cereal until completely coated.

Shape the Treats

Press the mixture into a greased 9x9 inch pan and let it cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into squares.

Allow the treats to cool completely for the best texture and flavor.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try drizzling melted chocolate over the top of the treats before they set.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to avoid nuts, there are great alternatives that still keep the treat delicious. Sunflower seed butter works exceptionally well in place of peanut butter, offering a similar creaminess without the nut allergy concerns. You can also use almond butter or cashew butter if you still wish to enjoy a nutty flavor, but be mindful of the consistency as they may alter the texture slightly.

For those who prefer a healthier twist, consider replacing the standard Rice Crispy cereal with brown rice crisps. They offer a more robust flavor and add a nutritional boost. Additionally, using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet can enhance the richness while cutting down on sugar.

Storage Tips

To maintain the best texture of your Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for about 3-5 days but can also be refrigerated for extended shelf life. If you do refrigerate them, just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.

If you prefer to make them ahead of time, you can freeze individual squares wrapped in parchment paper and then placed in a sealed bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or allow them to come to room temperature on your counter before indulging.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture to the treats.

→ How should I store these treats?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I make these treats in advance?

Yes, they can be made a few days ahead of time, just make sure to store them properly.

→ Are these treats gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Rice Crispy cereal, these treats are gluten-free!