Chocolate and peanut butter – is there a more perfect pairing? These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Squares take the classic marshmallow treat we all grew up with and elevate it to new heights with rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. The combination creates an irresistible dessert that’s both nostalgic and indulgent.
What makes these squares special is their perfect balance of textures – the signature crunch of Rice Krispies cereal, the gooey marshmallow binding, and the smooth chocolate-peanut butter topping that sets to a delightful snap. Whether you’re making them for a bake sale, after-school snacks, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these treats are guaranteed to disappear quickly!
Why You’ll Love This
- No-bake recipe that comes together in under 45 minutes
- Perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors
- Kid-friendly but sophisticated enough for adults
- Uses simple pantry ingredients you likely already have
- Stays fresh for days, making it perfect for advance preparation
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispie cereal
- ½ cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 40 regular size marshmallows or 1 ⅓ cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- Optional: chopped peanuts for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, over low heat, melt butter and peanut butter until combined. Add marshmallows and continue to stir until they are all melted and incorporated with the peanut butter mixture.
- Fold in the Rice Krispies and mix until everything is evenly combined.
- In a greased 9”x13” baking dish, pour and press the mixture into an even layer.
- Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave. Pour over the Rice Krispie layer and spread into a smooth layer to cover.
- Scatter chopped peanuts on top, if desired. Chill in the refrigerator for approximately 2 hours or until the chocolate is set.
- Cut into squares and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- For extra peanut flavor, use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth in the topping.
- Add 1/4 cup chopped peanuts to the cereal mixture for more texture.
- Try using dark chocolate chips for a less sweet, more intense chocolate flavor.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle the top with colorful sprinkles or mini M&Ms before the chocolate sets.
- If the marshmallow mixture becomes too stiff to work with, return it to low heat briefly to soften.
- For cleaner cuts, dip your knife in hot water and wipe clean between slices.
Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Squares are perfect on their own as a sweet treat, but they also pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert. For a fun dessert board, cut them into smaller pieces and serve alongside other bite-sized treats like brownies and cookies.
If you’re feeling particularly decadent, drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the top just before serving for an additional layer of flavor that complements both the chocolate and peanut butter.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For best results, allow the squares to come to room temperature before serving if they’ve been refrigerated.
- These squares can be frozen for up to 2 months – just place parchment paper between layers.
- The chocolate layer should be firm but not hard when properly set.
FAQs
Can I make these with natural peanut butter?
Yes, but the texture may vary slightly. If using natural peanut butter, make sure it’s well-stirred before measuring.
Can I use other cereals instead of Rice Krispies?
Absolutely! Cocoa Krispies, Chex, or even Cheerios can work well, though the texture and flavor will be different.
Why did my squares turn out too hard?
This usually happens when the marshmallow mixture gets overcooked. Keep the heat low and remove from heat as soon as everything is melted.
Can I make these without peanut butter for allergies?
Yes! Substitute with sunflower seed butter, cookie butter, or even Nutella for a different but equally delicious treat.
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