Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats

Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal; 1 cup peanut butter; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup light corn syrup; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup powdered sugar

Highlighted under: Cozy Recipes

I absolutely love creating delightful treats that combine my favorite flavors! These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats are a sensational twist on the classic recipe. I found that adding peanut butter not only enhances the flavor but also adds a creamy texture that marries beautifully with the crunch of rice cereal. This is a nostalgic treat that always brings a smile to my face, and I can't wait to share it with you!

Created by

Juniper Hale

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:49:34.534Z

When I first made these treats, I wasn’t sure how the combination of chocolate and peanut butter would go. To my surprise, it was an instant favorite! The creamy melting chocolate really complements the crispy texture, and the flavors create a perfect balance. I like to add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness and bring the flavors alive.

Every now and then, I experiment with different toppings, like chopped nuts or mini marshmallows, which add a unique twist. The best part is how quick and simple these treats are to whip up, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings!

        Why You'll Love These Treats
        Indulgent chocolate and rich peanut butter flavor
Crunchy yet gooey texture that's simply irresistible
A fun and quick treat that everyone will enjoy

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is perfect in these treats because they complement each other so well. Peanut butter brings a rich, nutty flavor and a creamy texture that balances the smoothness of the melted chocolate. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—as the cereals absorb moisture, they help keep the treats from becoming overly sticky. Using a good-quality semi-sweet chocolate is essential; it adds just the right amount of sweetness to contrast the saltiness of the peanut butter.

Light corn syrup is an often-overlooked ingredient, but it acts as a binder here, ensuring that the treats hold their shape without becoming overly hard. If you need a substitute, agave syrup works in a pinch, but it may slightly alter the flavor. The unsalted butter adds richness, while also helping to create the smooth texture. For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter that melts well, allowing you to enjoy these treats without missing out on flavor.

Perfecting Your Technique

When melting the butter and peanut butter mixture, keep the heat at medium and stir continuously. This minimizes the risk of burning the mixture, which can lead to a gritty texture in your final treats. Aim for a glossy and smooth consistency; if it looks grainy, it means the heat was too high. I sometimes remove it once it starts to bubble gently to ensure a perfect blend without overcooking.

After mixing the Rice Krispies with the peanut butter blend, you should work quickly to avoid the mixture becoming too firm, making it hard to spread. If you find it becoming stiff, you can always warm the mixture slightly over low heat before pressing it into your baking dish. This small tip can make a big difference in the ease of shaping your treats.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats

3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1 cup peanut butter
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 cup powdered sugar

Mix well until all ingredients are combined!

Instructions

Instructions:

Melt Butter and Peanut Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter, peanut butter, and light corn syrup. Stir continuously until melted and smooth.

Add Powdered Sugar

Remove from heat and stir in the powdered sugar until fully incorporated.

Combine with Rice Krispies

In a large bowl, add the Rice Krispies cereal and pour the peanut butter mixture over it. Stir until all cereal is evenly coated.

Melt Chocolate Chips

In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals until melted, stirring between each interval.

Combine and Spread

Spread the Rice Krispie mixture into a greased baking dish. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top and use a spatula to spread evenly.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the treats for about 30 minutes until the chocolate is set, then cut into squares and enjoy!

Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts or some mini marshmallows to the mixture before spreading it into the pan.

Serving and Storage Tips

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats can be enjoyed in various ways. For a dessert platter, I often cut them into different shapes or sizes, adding fun textures with sprinkles or crushed nuts on top. You can also try adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate drizzle for an extra layer of flavor that contrasts the sweetness beautifully.

Storage is easy; place the treats in an airtight container at room temperature. If stored properly, they can last for up to a week, but I find they rarely last that long! For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to two months—just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize these treats to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For a crunchy twist, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts or using different types of cereal such as Cocoa Puffs for a chocolatey flavor or Cheerios for a healthier option. You could even experiment with flavored chocolate, like dark or white chocolate, to create different taste profiles.

If you want to cut down on sugar or calories, try reducing the amount of powdered sugar slightly, or replacing it with a sugar alternative like erythritol. Adjust the amount of peanut butter for a more or less intense peanut flavor. Your treats might vary in texture based on these changes, but they’ll still be delicious!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter will add delightful texture to the treats!

→ How should I store the treats?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! Feel free to use milk chocolate or dark chocolate based on your preference.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Yes, substitute the butter with coconut oil and choose dairy-free chocolate chips.