The Jolly Christmas Peanut Butter Rice Cereal Squares Recipe

These festive Christmas peanut butter rice cereal squares spark joy with every delightful bite.

Colorful marshmallow magic binds crispy cereal into a sweet holiday treat.

Memories of childhood gatherings dance through each chewy morsel.

Soft and gooey textures combine perfectly with rich peanut butter flavor.

Minimal kitchen skills mean anyone can craft these delectable squares in minutes.

Decorative sprinkles or crushed candy canes add playful seasonal flair.

Nothing says winter celebration quite like these simple, irresistible dessert squares – so mix, melt, and savor the magic.

Christmas Peanut Butter Rice Cereal Squares – Sweet & Crunchy

• Whip Up Quick Treats: Prepare these delightful squares in just a few simple steps with minimal kitchen skills required, perfect for bakers of all experience levels.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Combine beloved flavors of chocolate and peanut butter that appeal to both kids and adults, making it an instant hit at family gatherings or holiday parties.
• Festive Holiday Charm: Add colorful sprinkles to transform basic rice cereal squares into a cheerful, seasonal dessert that brings instant joy and decorative flair to your celebration.
• No-Bake Convenience: Create a delicious dessert without turning on the oven, saving time and reducing kitchen heat while still delivering a delectable sweet treat.

Ingredients for Christmas Peanut Butter Rice Cereal Squares

• Rice Krispies Cereal: A crispy foundation that provides a light and crunchy texture for the squares.
• Corn Syrup: Helps bind the ingredients and creates a smooth, sweet base.
• Peanut Butter: Adds rich, creamy flavor and helps hold the base together.
• Sugar: Provides additional sweetness to the base mixture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, sweet notes.

• Chocolate Chips: Creates a rich, smooth chocolate layer that covers the cereal base.
• Peanut Butter: Adds extra creaminess and nutty flavor to the chocolate topping.

• Holiday Sprinkles, Chopped Peanuts: Adds festive color, crunch, and extra visual appeal to the finished squares.

Rice Cereal Square Assembly and Chilling Guide

Step 1: Create Cereal Base

Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix corn syrup, peanut butter, sugar, and vanilla in a saucepan over medium-low heat until everything melts together smoothly.

Pour the warm mixture over Rice Krispies in a large mixing bowl and stir thoroughly to ensure every cereal piece gets coated evenly.

Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan and press down firmly to create a compact, even layer.

Step 2: Craft Chocolate Topping

Place chocolate chips and additional peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl.

Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the mixture becomes completely smooth and glossy.

Carefully spread the melted chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the cereal base, creating an even, delicious coating.

Step 3: Finish With Festive Flair

Sprinkle holiday-themed decorative sprinkles generously across the surface.

For extra crunch, scatter chopped peanuts over the top.

Allow the treats to cool and set at room temperature for approximately 2 hours.

Once fully set, slice into neat squares and serve.

Tips for Chewy, Crunchy Christmas Cereal Squares

• Line the baking pan with parchment paper, allowing overhangs for easy removal and clean cutting of squares.
• Use short 30-second microwave intervals when melting chocolate chips to avoid burning and ensure smooth consistency.
• Press the cereal mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to create compact, well-formed squares that hold together perfectly.
• Choose festive holiday sprinkles in red, green, or gold colors to make the treats visually appealing and celebratory.
• Let squares set at room temperature for full 2 hours to ensure chocolate topping hardens completely before slicing.

Rice Cereal Square Variations for Extra Festivity

• Gluten-Free Crunch: Replace Rice Krispies with gluten-free rice cereal for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Almond Butter Alternative: Swap peanut butter with almond butter for a different nutty flavor profile and nut allergy-friendly option.
• Vegan Holiday Squares: Use dairy-free chocolate chips, coconut oil instead of butter, and maple syrup in place of corn syrup to create a plant-based version.
• Low-Sugar Version: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener and use dark chocolate with stevia for a reduced-sugar treat that maintains festive charm.

Plating Rice Cereal Squares for Holiday Snacking

• Festive Flavor Companions: Serve alongside hot cocoa or peppermint tea for a delightful holiday treat.
• Christmas Party Platter: Arrange squares on a decorative holiday tray with candy canes and festive napkins for a cheerful dessert display.
• Sweet Gift Idea: Package individually in clear cellophane bags tied with red and green ribbons as homemade edible gifts for neighbors and friends.
• Dessert Buffet Star: Position these squares as a centerpiece on a holiday dessert table with other seasonal sweets for a delectable spread.

Best Ways to Store Christmas Rice Cereal Squares

• Store in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper for up to 5 days, keeping the squares fresh and preventing them from sticking together.
• Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months, maintaining their delicious texture and flavor.
• Keep in a sealed container at room temperature for 2-3 days, away from direct sunlight or heat sources to preserve their crisp texture.
• Remove frozen squares from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying, allowing them to soften naturally.

FAQs

• What ingredients make these rice cereal squares festive?

Holiday sprinkles add a colorful, cheerful Christmas touch to the dessert, making them look fun and seasonal.

• Can I use different types of peanut butter?

Yes, creamy or crunchy peanut butter both work well. Choose your favorite brand or type for the recipe.

• How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to the pan?

Line the 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper before adding the cereal mixture. This ensures easy removal and clean cutting of squares.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly to make?

Absolutely! Kids can help mix ingredients, sprinkle toppings, and enjoy the no-bake process under adult supervision.