Description
These Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats combine the classic crunch of Rice Krispies cereal with the rich flavors of creamy peanut butter and melty marshmallows, topped with a luscious swirl of peanut butter and chocolate. Perfect as a sweet snack or dessert, these bars are easy to make and guaranteed to satisfy peanut butter lovers.
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, then set it aside while you prepare the mixture.
- Make the Base: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt together the butter and 1 cup peanut butter, stirring frequently until smooth and fully combined. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until they melt completely and the mixture becomes 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 the mixture to the prepared pan and press down gently using a spatula or wax paper to form an even layer without compacting it 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 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 to create 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 want 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
- To prevent the bars from becoming too dense, press gently when transferring the cereal mixture to the pan instead of compacting it tightly.
- Use parchment paper in the baking dish for easy removal of the bars.
- If you want a different flavor profile, milk chocolate can be substituted for semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
- For cleaner slicing, warming the knife blade slightly or wiping it between cuts makes it easier to cut through the chocolate topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Peanut Butter, Rice Krispie Treats, Marshmallow, Chocolate Swirl, Easy Dessert, Snack Bars
