Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispies Treats Recipe

Homemade Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispies Treats Recipe – Sweet Magic

Sweet memories often spark when chocolate and peanut butter mingle in this delightful peanut butter cup rice krispies treats surprise.

Childhood nostalgia rushes back with each sticky, gooey bite.

Melted marshmallows create a dreamy backdrop for rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter layers.

Crispy rice cereal adds satisfying crunch to this decadent dessert.

Minimal ingredients guarantee maximum flavor in every square-shaped morsel.

Simple kitchen skills help you craft these irresistible treats faster than you can imagine.

One taste, and you’ll understand why this recipe becomes an instant favorite.

All the Ingredients for PB Krispies

Base Ingredients:
  • Butter: Provides rich flavor and helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Peanut Butter: Adds creamy texture and signature nutty taste to the treats.
  • Mini Marshmallows: Creates a sticky, sweet base that holds the treats together.
  • Rice Krispies Cereal: Gives the classic crispy, crunchy texture to the dessert.
Chocolate and Topping Ingredients:
  • Mini Peanut Butter Cups: Introduces delicious chocolate and peanut butter chunks throughout the treats.
  • Melted Chocolate: Optional drizzle that enhances the overall chocolate flavor.
Preparation Ingredients:
  • Cooking Spray or Butter: Helps prevent the treats from sticking to the pan and ensures easy removal.

Make Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispies Fast

Step 1: Warm Up the Base

Start by grabbing a large saucepan and melting butter over medium heat.

Once the butter is smooth and golden, stir in peanut butter until they become best friends and create a creamy mixture.

  • Butter
  • Peanut Butter

Step 2: Create Marshmallow Magic

Toss in mini marshmallows and keep stirring like you’re creating a delicious spell.

Watch them transform into a silky, smooth landscape of sweetness.

Remove the pan from heat once everything looks perfectly blended.

  • Mini Marshmallows

Step 3: Introduce Crunchy Friends

Bring in the Rice Krispies cereal and gently fold them into the marshmallow mixture.

Make sure every single crispy piece gets a cozy marshmallow hug.

  • Rice Krispies Cereal

Step 4: Sprinkle Chocolate Treasure

Carefully fold in the halved mini peanut butter cups.

These little chocolate gems will add bursts of flavor throughout your treats.

  • Mini Peanut Butter Cups

Step 5: Shape Your Masterpiece

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray or butter.

Press the mixture evenly into the pan, creating a smooth, tempting surface.

Step 6: Final Touches

Let the treats cool down to room temperature.

For extra decadence, drizzle melted chocolate over the top.

Slice into squares and get ready to enjoy your epic creation.

Tips for Perfect PB Krispie Treats

  • Use cooking spray or softened butter to easily coat your pan, ensuring no sticky residue when removing treats.
  • Cut peanut butter cups into even halves for consistent chocolate-peanut butter distribution throughout the dessert.
  • Stir marshmallows constantly to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, creamy texture that binds ingredients perfectly.
  • Let treats cool completely at room temperature for clean, neat cutting and optimal texture that holds together well.
  • Melt chocolate in short microwave bursts or using a double boiler to create a smooth, glossy topping without burning.

Krispie Treats with Peanut Butter Variations

  • Almond Butter Alternative: Replace peanut butter with creamy almond butter for a different nutty flavor profile, perfect for those seeking a unique taste experience.
  • Gluten-Free Crunch: Swap traditional Rice Krispies with gluten-free rice cereal, making the treat safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Vegan Chocolate Lovers: Use dairy-free marshmallows, coconut oil instead of butter, and dark chocolate peanut butter cups for a completely plant-based version.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Substitute regular marshmallows with sugar-free marshmallows and use stevia-sweetened chocolate chips to reduce overall sugar content.

Serve PB Cup Krispies for Snacking

  • Sweet Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or milk chocolate and gracefully drizzle over the top of the treats for an extra luxurious touch.
  • Dessert Platter Partner: Arrange these delightful squares alongside fresh strawberries, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream for a stunning presentation.
  • Kid-Friendly Garnish: Sprinkle colorful rainbow sprinkles or crushed peanuts on top to make the treats more playful and visually appealing.
  • Party Portion Hack: Cut the treats into bite-sized triangles or use fun cookie cutters to create unique shapes perfect for birthday parties or potlucks.

Store PB Cup Krispies Easily

  • Store in an airtight container lined with parchment paper between layers for up to 5 days. Keep chilled to maintain texture and prevent peanut butter cups from melting.
  • Wrap individual treats tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 2 weeks without losing quality or flavor.
  • Place in sealed container away from direct sunlight or heat. Consume within 2-3 days for best taste and freshest texture.
  • Microwave individual treat for 5-10 seconds to slightly soften. Alternatively, let frozen treats thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

  • Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes, you can use regular marshmallows. Just chop them into smaller pieces or use the same weight of regular marshmallows as the recipe calls for mini marshmallows.

  • Do I need to refrigerate the Rice Krispies treats?

No, you can store these treats at room temperature in an airtight container for 2-3 days. They’ll stay soft and fresh without refrigeration.

  • Can I make these treats gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free Rice Krispies cereal and ensure your peanut butter cups are gluten-free. This will make the entire recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispies Treats: Kid-Friendly Fun

  • Indulge Quickly: Super easy recipe that requires minimal cooking skills, perfect for beginners who want a delicious dessert without complicated techniques.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Combo: Combines classic Rice Krispies treats with beloved peanut butter cups, creating an irresistible sweet treat that appeals to both kids and adults.
  • No-Bake Delight: Eliminates the need for an oven, making it a convenient dessert option that can be prepared in a single pan with simple ingredients.
  • Customizable Treat: Offers flexibility to adjust chocolate drizzle or add extra toppings, allowing personal creativity and making each batch unique.
Print
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Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispies Treats Recipe

Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispies Treats Recipe


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4.7 from 31 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Indulgent peanut butter cup rice krispies treats merge classic childhood snacks with chocolatey decadence. Chocolate-studded marshmallow squares deliver a nostalgic crunch that satisfies sweet cravings with irresistible charm.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 6 cups rice krispies cereal
  • 1 (10 ounces / 280 grams) bag mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter

Binding and Flavor Ingredients:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

Topping Ingredients:

  • 1 cup mini peanut butter cups, halved
  • 1/2 cup melted chocolate (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. In a spacious saucepan, melt butter over medium heat until it becomes golden and fragrant.
  2. Add peanut butter to the melted butter, whisking until the mixture transforms into a smooth, creamy consistency.
  3. Reduce heat and introduce mini marshmallows, continuously stirring until they completely dissolve and create a silky liquid.
  4. Remove pan from heat and immediately incorporate Rice Krispies cereal, ensuring each crisp morsel gets thoroughly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
  5. Carefully fold chopped peanut butter cups into the cereal blend, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
  6. Prepare a 9×13-inch pan by lightly greasing the surface to prevent sticking.
  7. Transfer the warm mixture into the prepared pan, using a spatula or clean hands to press and spread it into a uniform layer, creating an even surface.
  8. Allow treats to rest at room temperature for approximately 30-45 minutes, permitting them to set and solidify.
  9. Optional: Drizzle melted chocolate across the top for added decadence.
  10. Once completely cooled, slice into squares and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Choose unsalted butter to control the overall saltiness of the treats, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.
  • Opt for natural peanut butter with no added sugar for a richer, less sweet taste that complements the marshmallows.
  • Work quickly when mixing marshmallows and cereal to prevent the mixture from hardening before evenly coating the Rice Krispies.
  • For gluten-free version, use gluten-free Rice Krispies and check that peanut butter cups are gluten-free certified.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: None
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 276 kcal
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 130 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 33 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

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