If you love classic Rice Krispie treats, get ready to fall in love with this delightful twist that takes them to a whole new level. Peanut Butter and Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats combine the gooey goodness of marshmallows with the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate. Studded with mini peanut butter cups and topped with a luscious peanut butter chocolate layer, these treats are a perfect balance of sweet, crunchy, and creamy. Whether you’re making them for a party, a special occasion, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these treats are sure to become a favorite in your household.
I first discovered this recipe when I was experimenting in the kitchen, looking for ways to elevate the classic Rice Krispie treat into something a bit more indulgent. I’ve always loved the combination of peanut butter and chocolate, and adding it to Rice Krispie treats seemed like a match made in heaven. The result was even better than I imagined—rich, satisfying, and incredibly addictive. Now, these treats are a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and whenever I’m in the mood for a decadent snack.
Ingredients and Their Roles
To create these scrumptious Peanut Butter and Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Rice Krispie Treat Base:
- 6 tablespoons butter, divided: Adds richness and helps to melt the marshmallows smoothly, creating a gooey base.
- 10 cups miniature marshmallows: The key ingredient for the sticky, chewy texture that holds the Rice Krispies together.
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal: Provides the crunchy, crispy texture that is the hallmark of these treats.
- 2/3 cup creamy peanut butter: Infuses the base with a rich peanut butter flavor and helps to bind the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a hint of warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 (8 oz) package mini peanut butter cups: These add an extra burst of chocolate and peanut butter flavor, making each bite extra special.
For the Peanut Butter Chocolate Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: Creates a rich chocolate topping that pairs perfectly with the peanut butter base.
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter: Blends with the chocolate chips to create a smooth, delicious topping that sets perfectly on top of the treats.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make these decadent Peanut Butter and Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats:
Preparing the Rice Krispie Treat Base
Prepare the Baking Pan:
Line a 9×9-inch baking pan for super-thick treats, or a 9×13-inch pan for thinner treats, with foil, leaving extra foil over the edges to use as handles later. Grease the bottom and sides of the pan with 1 tablespoon of butter. This will make it easy to remove the treats from the pan once they’re set.
Melt the Butter and Marshmallows:
In a large pot, melt the remaining 5 tablespoons of butter over medium-low to low heat. Add the miniature marshmallows, stirring constantly until almost all of them are melted. Remove the pot from the heat.
Incorporate the Peanut Butter and Vanilla:
Stir in the 2/3 cup of creamy peanut butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the melted marshmallow mixture. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined.
Add the Rice Krispies and Peanut Butter Cups:
Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, ensuring that each piece is coated with the marshmallow mixture. Next, add the mini peanut butter cups and mix until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Press into the Prepared Pan:
Spoon the mixture into the prepared pan. Gently press it into an even layer, being careful not to press too hard, or the treats will become too dense and difficult to chew.
Making the Peanut Butter Chocolate Topping
Melt the Chocolate and Peanut Butter:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and 3/4 cup of creamy peanut butter. Microwave in 15-30 second intervals, stirring after each interval until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
Spread the Topping:
Pour the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture over the Rice Krispie layer in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer, covering the entire surface of the treats.
Cool and Set:
Allow the treats to cool completely at room temperature, or place them in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process. Once the chocolate layer is firm, use the foil handles to lift the treats out of the pan.
Cut and Serve:
Cut the set treats into squares and serve. Enjoy the perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and chocolaty goodness!