Name: Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 tablespoons unsalted butter; 10 ounces Jet-Puffed mini marshmallows; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon table salt; 5 cups chocolate puffed rice cereal (Cocoa Krispies, 7½ ounces); ½ cup chopped dry roasted peanuts (I use lightly salted peanuts); ½ cup peanut butter chips; 6 regular size Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (roughly chopped)

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The ultimate sweet treat for any occasion has to be the Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats. These delightful squares combine the crunch of chocolate puffed rice cereal with the creaminess of peanut butter, making them an irresistible snack for any sweet tooth. I remember the first time I made these treats; it was a rainy afternoon, and I wanted something comforting and fun to whip up with my kids. As soon as the sweet aroma filled the kitchen, we knew we were in for something special. The look on their faces as they took their first bite was priceless, and from that day, these treats became a family favorite.

Every time I pull out the ingredients to make Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats, it feels like a special occasion. It’s not just about the final product; it’s about the laughter, joy, and memories created in the kitchen. The process of melting the butter and marshmallows, folding in the chocolate cereal, and adding those chunky pieces of peanut butter cups is nothing short of magical. Even when I was a kid, I loved making these with my mom, and now I get to share that experience with my children. Each bite is a delicious reminder of all the good times we’ve had together, making these treats a tradition that brings us closer.

So whether it’s a birthday party, a rainy day, or just a craving for something sweet, these Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats are sure to please everyone. They’re incredibly easy to make, and you’ll find that they disappear just as quickly as you can make them!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Baking Sheet

Why This Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats Shines

There are so many reasons to adore Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats. Here are just a few:

Effortless to Prepare

One of the best things about these treats is how easy they are to make. With no baking involved, you can whip them up in no time. Just melt, mix, and set! This makes it a perfect recipe for kids to join in on the fun.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These treats aren’t just for a specific holiday; they can be enjoyed all year round. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, having a picnic, or simply enjoying a movie night, Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats fit right in.

Customizable

While the classic version is fantastic, the recipe allows for creativity. You can add in your favorite candies or even top them with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel for an extra indulgent touch.

Guilty Pleasure

What’s not to love about the mix of creamy peanut butter and chocolate? It’s a treat that satisfies your sweet cravings without being overly complicated or fancy.

Great for Sharing

These treats are the perfect dessert to share with friends and family. They’re portable, easy to cut into squares, and always a hit at gatherings. Just be prepared to hand out the recipe when everyone asks how you made them!

Childhood Nostalgia

For many of us, these treats bring back fond memories of childhood. Making them with family often creates lasting memories, making them more than just a dessert.

What to Buy for Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats

The ingredients for Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats are simple yet effective, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The main players are the chocolate puffed rice cereal, creamy peanut butter, and mini marshmallows. Together, these ingredients come together to create a perfect harmony of sweetness and crunch that everyone loves.

8 tablespoons unsalted butter: This is vital for adding richness and helping the marshmallows melt just right.
10 ounces Jet-Puffed mini marshmallows: The star of the show! They provide the sweet, gooey texture that binds everything together.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: While optional, it adds a lovely depth of flavor.
¼ teaspoon table salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
5 cups chocolate puffed rice cereal (Cocoa Krispies, 7½ ounces): These are the crunchy base that gives texture to the treats.
½ cup chopped dry roasted peanuts: They add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the peanut butter.
½ cup peanut butter chips: These melt beautifully and integrate the rich peanut flavor throughout the treat.
6 regular size Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, roughly chopped: The final touch that makes these treats truly decadent!

The Process for Making Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats

Creating Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats is a fun and straightforward process, perfect for all skill levels. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious treat that everyone will love.

Prep the Pan: Start by lightly greasing an 8×8-inch baking pan. You can also line it with parchment paper, making sure to leave a 2-inch overhang on two sides. This will help you remove the treats easily later. If you prefer, you can simply grease the pan with cooking spray, but remember, it might be a bit trickier to cut the treats inside the pan.
Melt the Marshmallows: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. As it melts, reduce the heat to low and stir in the marshmallows. Keep stirring until the marshmallows are about three-quarters melted. Turn off the heat and add the salt and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Mix: Off the heat, it’s time to fold in the chocolate puffed rice cereal and chopped peanuts. Make sure everything is evenly coated, and let the mixture cool for 1 to 2 minutes. This brief cooling time ensures that the next step won’t melt the peanut butter chips.
Assemble: Once slightly cooled, quickly fold in the peanut butter chips. Then, press the mixture gently into the prepared pan. You can use the butter wrapper or a piece of parchment paper sprayed with cooking spray to help keep it from sticking to your hands. Finally, top with the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, pressing them gently into the surface so they adhere.
Set and Slice: Allow the mixture to stand at room temperature for about 2 to 3 hours until fully set. Once set, lift the treats out of the pan using the parchment overhang, and slice them into 9 or 16 squares. These treats can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Things Worth Knowing

Ingredient Quality: Using high-quality butter and fresh marshmallows can elevate the flavor of your treats.
Serving Temperature: These treats taste best when stored at room temperature, as they maintain their ideal texture and taste.
Don’t Rush the Setting: Allowing the treats to set completely is essential. If you cut them too early, they may crumble.
Mixing Technique: When mixing in the cereal and peanuts, be gentle to keep the cereal from breaking down.

Helpful Notes about Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or trying your hand at these treats for the first time, here are some helpful notes to keep in mind.

Storage: Store any leftover treats in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their chewy texture.
Freezing: You can freeze these treats for later enjoyment. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container.
Pairing: These treats are perfect with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee.
Variations: Try adding different candies or nuts for a twist, such as M&Ms or almonds.
Serving Size: Adjust the size of your squares based on how indulgent you want each serving to be; larger squares for a party, smaller for a snack.

Great Combinations for Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats

When it comes to enjoying your Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats, there are many creative ways to serve them. Here are some ideas:

Perfect for Parties: These treats make an excellent addition to any birthday party or celebration, sure to delight guests of all ages.
Movie Night Snack: Pair these treats with your favorite film for a cozy family movie night.
Picnic Essential: Cut them into smaller squares and pack them in your picnic basket for a delightful outdoor treat.
Seasonal Gatherings: These treats can easily adapt to any season; simply alter the mix-ins to match holidays or themes.
Lunchbox Treat: They’re great for kids’ lunches as a sweet surprise or after-school snack.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats in advance. They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for a longer period, consider freezing them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cereals! While chocolate puffed rice cereal is a delicious choice, you can also use regular rice cereal, fruity options, or even granola for added texture. Just be mindful that different cereals may alter the flavor and sweetness of the treats slightly.

To cut your Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats without crumbling, it’s essential to let them cool and set completely. Use a sharp knife, and if they still feel sticky, try spraying the knife with a bit of cooking spray before cutting. This will help prevent the treats from sticking to the knife.

If you find that the mixture is too sticky to handle, it’s likely because the marshmallows were melted too much or not enough cereal was added. To remedy this, you can sprinkle a little extra cereal into the mixture and fold it in gently until it reaches a manageable consistency.

Conclusion

These Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them a must-try for anyone who loves a good dessert. Don’t hesitate to whip up a batch for your next gathering or simply as a sweet treat for yourself. I encourage you to give this recipe a shot; it’s easy, fun, and guaranteed to please!