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 mini marshmallows; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips; 5 cups rice cereal; 1/2 cup additional chocolate chips for drizzling (optional); Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Soft Kitchen

I love making these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats for a quick and delicious snack. The crunchy rice cereal combined with the creamy chocolate and peanut butter creates a delightful contrast of textures that I can’t resist. This recipe is so simple and comes together in no time, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or as an after-school treat for the kids. Every bite is packed with flavor, and I always find myself coming back for more!

Created by

Leonie Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:45:34.982Z

When I first tried making these treats, I loved how effortless they were, yet they tasted like a gourmet dessert. The blend of chocolate and peanut butter really elevates the classic rice crispy recipe, making it a favorite in my household. I discovered that melting the chocolate with the peanut butter gives a luscious, glossy finish that adheres perfectly to the rice cereal.

One tip that worked wonders for me is to let the mixture cool slightly before pressing it into the pan. This prevents the chocolate from becoming too stiff, ensuring that every square remains chewy and delightful. I’ve also found that using fresh marshmallows gives the best texture, boosting that soft and gooey factor, which keeps everyone coming back for more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Irresistible combination of chocolate and peanut butter
Quick and easy to prepare with no baking required
Chewy texture with a satisfying crunch in every bite

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

One of the standout qualities of Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats is that they offer a sensational blend of flavors. The rich, creamy peanut butter pairs seamlessly with the sweetness of the chocolate, resulting in a treat that satisfies both sweet and nutty cravings. Additionally, the touch of salt can elevate these flavors even further, enhancing the overall taste profile. Using high-quality chocolate chips and natural peanut butter can make a significant difference in the final taste.

Textures play a key role in the enjoyment of these treats. The combination of the crispy rice cereal and the creamy, melted chocolate-peanut butter blend creates an enjoyable contrast. I recommend using a rice cereal brand that offers a good level of crunch to ensure every bite has that satisfying crunch while still being complemented by the chewy marshmallow mixture.

Techniques for Success

When melting the butter and marshmallows, keep the heat at medium-low to prevent burning. Stirred frequently, it should take about 3-5 minutes for the marshmallows to fully melt and combine with the butter into a smooth consistency. If you notice any marshmallow lumps, don't hesitate to keep stirring; it will smooth out beautifully over time.

A crucial step in this recipe is to fold the rice cereal into the chocolate-peanut butter mixture gently. Overmixing can lead to a broken texture, where the chocolate burns or the rice cereal crushes down too much. Instead, use a large spatula to fold the mixture until every cereal piece is coated without losing its integrity, which ensures perfect bites with that characteristic crunch.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These treats can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. For longer storage, cut the treats into squares and layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a large container, which prevents sticking. They can also be frozen for up to three months; just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag—doing so preserves their flavor and texture.

For a fun twist when serving, consider adding toppings such as chopped nuts, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce along with the chocolate drizzle. You can also experiment with different nut butters, like almond or cashew, for a unique flavor profile, accommodating dietary restrictions or preferences while keeping the treat delicious.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious treats:

Ingredients

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
5 cups rice cereal
1/2 cup additional chocolate chips for drizzling (optional)
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Melt the Butter and Marshmallows

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and mini marshmallows together. Stir frequently until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

Combine with Peanut Butter

Once the marshmallows have melted, remove the pan from the heat and immediately stir in the creamy peanut butter until well blended.

Add the Chocolate Chips

Dig in those sumptuous chocolate chips, and mix until they are melted and the mixture becomes glossy. Make sure to keep stirring so everything evenly incorporates.

Combine with Rice Cereal

Pour the rice cereal into the marshmallow mixture and gently fold until all the rice cereal is coated evenly with the chocolate-peanut butter blend.

Transfer and Set

Spray a 9x9 inch baking dish with cooking spray and transfer the mixture into the dish. Press it down firmly with a spatula to create an even layer.

Chill and Slice

Allow the treats to cool for about 10 minutes at room temperature. If desired, melt the additional chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled treats before slicing into squares.

Pro Tips

For extra fun, try adding crushed nuts or candies into the mixture for a twist. Also, feel free to substitute dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor!

Customization Ideas

One of the great things about Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats is their versatility. Feel free to mix in different ingredients to suit your taste. For example, adding a half-cup of mini chocolate chips can heighten the chocolatey goodness. If you want a hint of crunch, consider folding in chopped pretzels or nuts for an added texture dimension, balancing both crunch and chewiness.

If you’re aiming for a healthier alternative, try substituting the creamy peanut butter with a natural nut butter and opting for dark chocolate chips. This not only enhances the nutritional value of the treats but also provides a slightly more complex and rich flavor profile. The fun part is that you can tailor this recipe to cater to various dietary requirements while maintaining its essential character.

Troubleshooting Tips

Should your treats turn out too sticky and hard to cut, it may be an indication that the marshmallows were overheated during melting. Always melt them gently and keep stirring until they are just smooth. If things go awry, simply take a small portion, melt it again gently, and mix it with the original batch—this can restore the texture needed for easier cutting.

In case you find the texture too loose after setting, consider chilling the mixture again before cutting. Alternatively, melting an additional handful of chocolate chips and mixing them in can help bind the ingredients together. This troubleshooting method can save your treats from crumbling and give them a more cohesive structure.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these treats ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make them up to two days in advance and store them in an airtight container.

→ How long do these treats last?

They can stay fresh for about a week when stored properly at room temperature.

→ Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Yes! Almond butter or cashew butter can be great alternatives and will give different flavors.

→ Can I add more marshmallows?

Definitely! Adding more marshmallows will make them softer and chewier. Just adjust the amount of rice cereal accordingly.