Crispy Rice Peanut Butter Treats
These Crispy Rice Peanut Butter Treats combine crispy rice cereal with marshmallows and creamy peanut butter for a chewy, crunchy, nutty dessert that’s ready in minutes. A no-bake nostalgic treat with a delicious grown-up twist.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 10 oz package marshmallows (about 40 regular marshmallows)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter not natural style
- 1/4 teaspoon salt enhances the peanut butter flavor
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips optional, for sprinkling on top
Instructions
- Prepare your pan by lining a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. Lightly coat the parchment with cooking spray.
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-low heat. Watch it carefully so it doesn’t brown—you want it just melted completely.
- Add the marshmallows to the melted butter and stir continuously until they’re completely melted and smooth. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Reduce heat if they start to brown at all.
- Remove from heat and add peanut butter, stirring vigorously until fully incorporated and smooth. The mixture should be glossy and uniform.
- Mix in the salt and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined. These additions enhance the flavor profile significantly.
- Fold in the crispy rice cereal one cup at a time, gently folding with a wooden spoon until all cereal is evenly coated. Be careful not to crush the cereal—you want to maintain that signature crunch!
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan and press it down evenly using a piece of parchment paper or a spatula lightly coated with cooking spray. Don’t compact it too hard or your treats will become dense.
- Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips if using, gently pressing them into the surface while the mixture is still warm so they adhere.
- Allow to cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
Notes
- For the best texture, use fresh marshmallows. Older ones tend to create harder treats.
- Traditional peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) works better than natural peanut butter, which can separate and affect texture.
- These treats can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For extra indulgence, try drizzling melted chocolate over the top after they’ve set.
- Work quickly once the marshmallows are melted—the mixture becomes harder to stir as it cools.