Name: Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with Chocolate Swirl Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick); 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows (about 5 1/2 cups); 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, if preferred)

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Introduction

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are a delicious twist on the classic marshmallow snack. These bars combine crunchy Rice Krispies with creamy peanut butter and a swirled chocolate topping for a rich, satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

The image shows a round black plate filled with stacked square-shaped dessert bars. Each bar has visible layers: a crumbly light brown bottom layer, a thicker light tan middle layer, and a top layer decorated with swirled dark and light brown patterns, creating a marbled effect. Around the plate, some bars are placed on a white marbled surface, along with a striped cloth and a small bowl of hazelnuts. A woman's hand is reaching for one bar from the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1 cup creamy peanut butter (for the base)

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows (about 5 1/2 cups)

1 cup creamy peanut butter (for the topping)
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, if preferred)

Instructions

Step 1: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier removal. Set aside while you prepare the mixture.
Step 2: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and 1 cup peanut butter together, stirring frequently until smooth and fully combined. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until they melt completely and the mixture is cohesive and glossy.
Step 3: Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the Rice Krispies cereal. Fold quickly and thoroughly to coat all the cereal before the mixture cools and sets. Transfer to the prepared pan and press it down gently using a spatula or wax paper to create an even layer without compacting too firmly.

Step 4: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the remaining 1 cup of peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and pourable. In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate chips the same way, stirring until fully melted and silky.
Step 5: Pour the melted peanut butter over the base and spread it evenly to cover the surface. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top in lines or dollops, then use a toothpick or butter knife to swirl the two together in a marbled pattern.
Step 6: Allow the bars to set at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours, or refrigerate for about 45 minutes if you need them to set more quickly. The topping should be firm before slicing.

Step 7: Once set, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares. For cleaner cuts, wipe the knife blade between slices. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Tips & Variations

Use natural peanut butter for a less sweet, more intense flavor, but be sure to warm it well so it blends smoothly with the butter.
Try swapping semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate or peanut butter chips to change up the flavor profile.

Press the cereal mixture gently to avoid soggy treats but enough to hold them together firmly.
For a nut-free option, substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.

Storage

Store the Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If refrigerated, allow the bars to come to room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for the best texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a black round tray filled with square dessert bars that have two distinct layers. The bottom layer is a thick, light brown crispy base, and the top layer is a smooth, light brown and dark brown swirled chocolate with a shiny texture. The bars are arranged neatly in the tray, with some more bars visible on the white marbled surface around the tray. In the background, there is a white cup and a small white bowl filled with hazelnuts, all placed on the white marbled surface. A woman's hand is seen, reaching for one of the bars. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter can be used if you prefer a bit of texture in the treats. Just be sure to melt it thoroughly with the butter and marshmallows for an even consistency.

How can I make the treats vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, use vegan marshmallows and a plant-based butter alternative. Check that the chocolate chips are dairy-free as well. This will yield a delicious vegan-friendly snack.