Name: Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons butter; 6 cups mini marshmallows (divided); 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter; 6 cups rice krispies cereal; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 11 oz Kraft caramels ((1 package) unwrapped); 1 1/2 tablespoons coarse sea salt

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There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and salty, and Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats embody this delightful balance perfectly. I remember the first time I made these treats; I had a craving for something sweet and crunchy, but I wanted it to have that extra touch of indulgence. As I stirred the melting butter and marshmallows, the rich aroma filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me back to my childhood. These treats are not just a dessert; they’re a nostalgic experience that brings joy and comfort. Sharing them with friends and family is always a hit, turning any gathering into a celebration.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
12 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
7 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Frying Pan

Why We Love This Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

Irresistible Flavor Combination

What sets Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats apart is the incredible blend of flavors. The smoothness of peanut butter marries perfectly with the sweet, sticky caramel, while the Rice Krispies add that satisfying crunch. Each bite offers a burst of flavor that dances on your taste buds, making it hard to stop at just one!

Quick and Easy to Make

We all love a recipe that doesn’t take hours to prepare. These treats come together in just a short time, making them perfect for spontaneous cravings. In less than thirty minutes, you can whip up a batch that will impress anyone who tries them.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a birthday party, a cozy movie night, or just an afternoon snack, these treats fit right in. The Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are versatile enough to be a festive dessert or a simple weekday indulgence.

Kid-Friendly Fun

Making these treats can be a delightful activity with kids. Watching them pour the Rice Krispies into the gooey mixture is a fun experience, and they can help with the decorating too, sprinkling that coarse sea salt for an extra touch. It’s a great way to create lasting memories in the kitchen!

Store and Share

Once you’ve made these delicious bars, they’re easy to store for later. Just keep them in an airtight container, and you can enjoy them for days. They also make fantastic gifts; who wouldn’t appreciate a homemade treat?

Everything You Need for Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

The beauty of Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats lies in the simplicity of its ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of taste and texture. The key players are the butter, which adds richness; mini marshmallows, which bring sweetness and gooeyness; and Rice Krispies, which provide the crunch. Together, they create a treat that’s not only delicious but also nostalgic.

3 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients.
6 cups mini marshmallows: Provides sweetness and that wonderful gooey texture.
1/2 cup smooth peanut butter: Introduces a creamy, nutty flavor.
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal: Offers the essential crunch and texture.
2 tablespoons heavy cream: Helps achieve that smooth caramel drizzle.
11 oz Kraft caramels: The star of the show, delivering sweetness and a lovely texture.
1 1/2 tablespoons coarse sea salt: Enhances the flavors and gives that perfect salty touch.

Making This Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the process of making these delightful treats. Follow these steps for a delicious result that’s sure to impress!

In a large saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Watch it closely as it melts; you want it to be completely melted but not browned. The aroma of melting butter is heavenly!
Once melted, add 4 cups of mini marshmallows to the pan. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth. This should take a few minutes, and keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in smooth peanut butter until it’s fully melted and combined with the marshmallow mixture. This step is crucial for that creamy texture.
Now, add in the remaining 2 cups of mini marshmallows along with the Rice Krispies. Stir until everything is well coated. You’ll see the mixture start to come together, and it should be sticky and gooey.
Next, press the mixture into a greased 9×13 pan. Use a spatula or your hands (greased, of course!) to evenly spread it out. Don’t press too hard; you want to keep that light, airy texture.
Set the pan aside to cool while you prepare the caramel topping. In a small bowl, combine Kraft caramels and heavy cream. Microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted. This will create a smooth caramel sauce.
Once melted, pour the caramel over the cooled Krispie treats, spreading it evenly. Don’t be shy with the caramel; it’s what makes these treats extra special!
Sprinkle coarse sea salt over the top. This is where the magic happens, as the salt enhances the sweetness and creates that perfect sweet-and-salty combination.
Allow everything to cool completely before cutting into bars. Use a sharp knife to slice through the mixture, creating neat squares. Serve and enjoy!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. They may not last that long, though!

Things Worth Knowing

Perfect Heat Control: Always melt butter over low heat to prevent it from browning. It should be gently melted for the best flavor.
Stickiness: If the mixture is too sticky to handle, greasing your hands or the spatula will help you spread it more evenly.
Caramel Consistency: When melting the caramels, ensure they don’t overheat. Stir frequently to achieve a smooth pourable consistency.
Cutting Tips: For cleaner cuts, use a warm knife when slicing the bars. This technique prevents the treats from crumbling.

Variations to Try

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to put a twist on your Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats. Here are some variations to consider!

Mix-Ins: Add chopped nuts like peanuts or pretzels for extra crunch and flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a delightful twist.
Different Cereals: Substitute the Rice Krispies with other cereals like Cocoa Pebbles or Cornflakes for a new flavor and texture.
Flavor Infusions: Add a teaspoon of almond or coconut extract to the melted mixture for a different flavor profile.
Colorful Sprinkles: Top the bars with colorful sprinkles to make them festive for parties.
Nut Butter Variations: Try using crunchy peanut butter or other nut butters like almond or cashew for a different taste.

Serving This Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

When it comes to serving Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats, the options are endless. Here are some ideas to make your serving experience even better:

Ideal for Parties: These treats are perfect for birthday parties, potlucks, or any festive occasion. Their appealing look and delicious taste will surely be a hit.
Snack Time Delight: Serve these bars as an afternoon snack for kids and adults alike. They’re easy to grab and go!
Pair with Milk: These treats pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk, enhancing the flavors and providing a satisfying snack.
Gift Giving: Wrap them in cellophane with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift. Everyone loves receiving treats!
Seasonal Variations: During holidays, consider decorating them with festive sprinkles or themed colors to match the celebration.
Storing Leftovers: Keep any remaining bars in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can be enjoyed for several days!

FAQ

Absolutely! In fact, Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare them a day or two in advance and simply store them in an airtight container. This way, they’ll be ready to go whenever you need a sweet treat. Just keep in mind that the longer they sit, the softer they might become, so it’s best to serve them within a few days of making them.

To keep your Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for about five days. If you have a lot left or want to keep them longer, consider wrapping them tightly and placing them in the freezer. They can stay frozen for up to a month. Just make sure to let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying them!

Yes! While the classic recipe calls for Rice Krispies, you can definitely experiment with other cereals. Try using Fruity Pebbles for a fun twist or even Cornflakes for a different crunch. Just keep in mind that some cereals may change the flavor a bit, but that’s all part of the fun in experimenting with your favorite treats.

The main ingredients in Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are naturally gluten-free; however, you should always check the labels on your products to ensure they’re gluten-free. Some Rice Krispies brands may contain gluten, so it’s essential to verify that you’re using a gluten-free version. This way, everyone can enjoy your delicious treats!

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful combination of flavors that will satisfy your cravings for something sweet and crunchy. Their easy-to-follow recipe makes them perfect for anyone, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out. I encourage you to try making these treats for your next gathering or simply to enjoy at home. You won’t be disappointed!