Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats

Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 12 treats
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 cup smooth peanut butter; 1 cup chocolate chips; 4 cups rice cereal; 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Collection

I love making these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats for a sweet indulgence that never fails to impress. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter makes for a decadent dessert that’s easy to prepare. Every time I whip them up, the delightful aroma fills my kitchen, and I can’t help but sneak a few bites before they set completely. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe becomes a go-to for gatherings or a simple treat at home that satisfies my sweet tooth.

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:33:34.434Z

Creating these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats was a delightful experience that I will cherish. I experimented with the ratios of chocolate and peanut butter, and found that using both smooth and crunchy peanut butter adds a wonderful texture. Moreover, melting the chocolate with a bit of butter ensures a silky finish that binds everything wonderfully. I love how customizable they are; sometimes I add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for that salty-sweet combo.

What makes these treats stand out is their simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you achieve a scrumptious dessert that's perfect for any occasion. I’ve served them at parties, and they vanish within minutes! If you want to elevate them further, try adding a layer of melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgent touch.

        Why You'll Love These Treats
        Decadent chocolate meets creamy peanut butter in a delightful explosion of flavor
Quick and easy preparation means more time to enjoy with friends and family
Perfectly chewy with just a hint of crunch, making each bite a heavenly experience

      

Achieving the Perfect Texture

The balance between the rice cereal and the melted mixture is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in these treats. When mixing the rice cereal with the peanut butter and chocolate blend, be sure to do so gently. Overmixing can lead to a denser final product rather than the desired chewy yet crispy finish. Aim for an even coat of the mixture on the cereal without crushing the cereal too much.

Additionally, allowing the mixture to cool for about 10 minutes before cutting ensures that the treats firm up properly. If you find that they're still too soft upon cooling, let them set for an additional 5-10 minutes in the refrigerator to help them hold their shape better. This way, each bite will provide that perfect chewy texture that melts in your mouth.

Ingredient Insights

Using smooth peanut butter is essential for achieving a creamy consistency in the treats. Chunky peanut butter, while delicious, can disrupt the even distribution and texture when mixing with the chocolate and rice cereal. If you're looking for a variation, try using almond or cashew butter for a unique spin. Just keep in mind that the flavor will shift slightly, but the creaminess will still be there.

The chocolate chips serve two important roles in this recipe: they not only add flavor but also help bind the mixture together as they melt. Opt for semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a more complex taste, but if you're catering to a sweeter palate, milk chocolate will work just fine. Remember to check that the chocolate chips are fresh; old chips may not melt as smoothly, leading to clumps in your treat.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before starting:

Ingredients

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup smooth peanut butter
1 cup chocolate chips
4 cups rice cereal
1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

All ingredients are essential for creating the perfect treats!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious treats:

Melt the Butter and Peanut Butter

In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter and smooth peanut butter over low heat, stirring until they are well combined and smooth.

Add Chocolate Chips

Remove the pot from heat and quickly stir in the chocolate chips until fully melted and smooth.

Mix in Rice Cereal

Add the rice cereal and mini marshmallows (if using) to the mixture, stirring until everything is evenly coated.

Set in Pan

Press the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch pan, spreading it evenly. Allow to cool for at least 10 minutes.

Cut and Serve

Once set, cut into squares and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats!

Enjoy these treats as a sweet snack or dessert!

Pro Tips

For an extra special touch, drizzle melted chocolate on top before they set. You can also try adding nuts or candy pieces for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats can be served in a variety of ways to suit different occasions. For a fun twist, consider cutting them into shapes with cookie cutters for a themed party or special event. You can also drizzle extra melted chocolate on top for an added layer of indulgence, or sprinkle sea salt to enhance the sweet and salty contrast.

However you choose to serve them, remember that presentation can elevate the experience. Plating these treats on a decorative platter or wrapping them individually in cellophane can make them a delightful gift for friends or family. Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a richer dessert experience!

Storage and Shelf Life

To keep your Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They typically last for up to a week, but I recommend enjoying them within the first few days for the best texture. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them; just be aware that they may firm up a bit more and lose that soft chewiness you crave.

You can also freeze these treats for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Just remember to cut them into squares before freezing, so they’re ready to serve straight away.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?

Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture to the treats.

→ How should I store the treats?

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

→ Can I freeze these treats?

Yes, they can be frozen! Just ensure they are well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

→ What can I substitute for rice cereal?

You can also use cornflakes or even oatmeal for a different twist.