Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats

Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 17 min
Yield: 12 treats
Ingredients: 3 cups rice crispy cereal; 1 cup mini marshmallows; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 cup milk chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love the satisfying crunch of rice crispy treats, but when you add rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, it transforms into an indulgent delight! This recipe was inspired by my quest to create a quick, no-bake dessert that requires minimal ingredients yet delivers an explosion of flavor. Perfect for gatherings or just a relaxing evening at home, these treats are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them—especially kids and chocolate lovers!

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:07:12.203Z

Creating these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats has been a delightful experience. I remember the first time I tried adding peanut butter to the classic recipe, and the combination was simply irresistible. The sweet, nutty flavor pairs perfectly with the chocolate coating, making each bite a heavenly experience.

One tip that truly enhances these treats is to melt the chocolate slowly. Whether you use a microwave or a double boiler, make sure not to overheat it; doing so keeps the chocolate smooth and perfect for dipping. Trust me, this attention to detail elevates every treat!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent combination of chocolate and peanut butter
Quick and easy preparation with no baking required
Perfectly crunchy yet chewy texture

      

Understanding Texture and Flavor

The key to achieving the perfect texture in these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats is the right balance between crunchy and chewy. The rice crispy cereal provides that satisfying crunch, while the melted marshmallows and peanut butter create a gooey, chewy base. For optimal texture, ensure you stir the marshmallows until they are completely melted and glossy; this ensures an even distribution throughout the mixture.

Additionally, using creamy peanut butter is crucial for achieving a smooth consistency. Crunchy peanut butter may give an interesting bite but can disrupt the uniformity of the treats. If you have allergies or prefer a different taste, almond butter or sunbutter can be great substitutes that still offer a creamy texture with unique flavor profiles.

Storing and Serving Tips

To keep your treats fresh and prevent them from becoming stale, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can stack the squares with layers of parchment paper in between to avoid sticking. These treats can last up to a week, but I recommend eating them sooner for the best taste and texture!

If you want to impress guests at a party or potluck, consider cutting the treats into fun shapes using cookie cutters or drizzling extra melted chocolate on top for added decoration. This not only enhances presentation but also allows for creative variations – you could sprinkle mini chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for extra flavor and crunch.

Ingredients

For the Treats

3 cups rice crispy cereal
1 cup mini marshmallows
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Coating

1 cup milk chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and peanut butter together. Stir in the mini marshmallows until completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat and add the rice crispy cereal, mixing until fully coated.

Shape the Treats

Press the mixture into a greased 9x9-inch baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to pack it tightly and evenly. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.

Make the Chocolate Coating

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.

Coat the Treats

Once the rice crispy mixture is set, cut it into squares. Dip each square into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Place on parchment paper to set.

Enjoy!

Once the chocolate coating has hardened, the treats are ready to be enjoyed. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets. It adds a delicious contrast to the sweetness!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your rice crispy mixture feels too sticky and difficult to shape, it may be due to too many marshmallows or not enough cereal. To fix this, you can melt a little more peanut butter and mix in additional rice crispy cereal until you achieve the desired consistency. This will help balance the stickiness and allow for easier handling.

On the other hand, if the mixture is too crumbly and not holding together, you can reheat gently in the saucepan for a minute or so while stirring in a bit more melted marshmallow. This will help bind everything together without compromising the texture.

Scaling Up or Down

This recipe is quite versatile and can be easily scaled based on your needs. If you want to make a larger batch for a big gathering, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish—like a 9x13-inch pan—to accommodate the extra mixture. Just keep in mind that you might need to slightly adjust the melting time for the chocolate coating, as a larger quantity may take a bit more time to melt evenly.

Conversely, if you're looking to make a smaller batch, halving the recipe is straightforward, but be sure to keep an eye on the consistency of the mixture as you adjust. It should still maintain the same balance of ingredients to achieve that delightful crunch and chew.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of cereal?

Yes, you can substitute rice crispy cereal with any puffed cereal you prefer.

→ How can I make these treats healthier?

You can use whole grain cereal and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of marshmallows.

→ What if I don’t have peanut butter?

Nut butters like almond or cashew work well as alternatives. You can even use sunbutter for a nut-free option.

→ How should I store these treats?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week!