How to Make the Perfect Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats
American · Easy · 30 min · 16 servings
Classic crispy rice treats get a delicious upgrade with the addition of creamy peanut butter, creating a chewy and satisfying dessert that kids cannot stop eating. They come together in one pot with no oven required and are ready to cut and serve in under 30 minutes.
Why this recipe works
This Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 30 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 175 calories with 3g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 0.5 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 0.25 tsp salt
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Melt the Butter and Peanut Butter
Melt the butter and peanut butter together in a large pot over medium low heat, stirring constantly until fully combined and smooth. Do not let the mixture bubble or it will make the treats tough.
Step 2: Add the Marshmallows
Add the mini marshmallows to the pot and stir constantly over low heat until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla and salt.
Step 3: Mix in the Cereal
Add all of the Rice Krispies cereal at once and fold gently but quickly using a buttered spatula until every piece of cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
Step 4: Press and Cut
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9 by 13 inch baking pan and press it evenly with buttered hands or the back of a buttered spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for 20 minutes before cutting into squares.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- creamy peanut butter → sunflower seed butter for a nut free school safe version
- unsalted butter → coconut oil for a dairy free option
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Pressing the mixture too firmly which compacts it and makes the treats dense
- Cooking the marshmallows on too high heat which causes hard and sticky treats
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 175 calories, 3g protein, 27g carbs, 7g fat, 1g fiber.
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