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: 4 cups rice cereal; 1 cup milk chocolate chips; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Delightful Bakes

I absolutely adore these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats! The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate makes for an irresistible dessert that I often whip up for gatherings. With their chewy texture and sweet flavor, these treats are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, they come together in just a matter of minutes, making them a perfect last-minute treat when friends swing by. I love how simple ingredients unite to create something so delightful, and I can’t resist sneaking a few bites while they cool!

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:34:13.864Z

Creating these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats was a delightful experiment in my kitchen. I love how quickly they come together, with just a few staple ingredients. As I melted the chocolate and peanut butter, the aroma filled my kitchen, enticing my family to wander in and ask for a taste test.

The key to making them perfectly chewy is to use fresh, crispy rice cereal. I’ve learned that letting the mixture cool for just a little longer before cutting helps achieve that ideal texture. Trust me; these treats will disappear faster than you can make them!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate flavor enhanced by creamy peanut butter
Chewy yet crispy texture that kids and adults will adore
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

The success of these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats lies in the quality of your ingredients. Using creamy peanut butter not only adds richness but also contributes to the chewy texture that makes these treats so satisfying. I prefer using a good-quality, natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils, as it complements the sweetness perfectly without overpowering it. The chocolate chips are another important factor; I recommend using semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips for a more balanced sweetness, depending on your preference.

Rice cereal acts as the base, providing that quintessential crunch and lightness. When mixing the rice cereal, do it gently; aggressive stirring can crush the cereal, leaving you with dense treats instead of the delightful crispy texture you're aiming for. If you're feeling adventurous, consider swapping out plain rice cereal for flavored varieties like chocolate or cinnamon, which can add an unexpected twist to the classic flavor profile.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making these treats is the mixture becoming too sticky or crumbly when transferring to the pan. To prevent this, ensure that your butter and chocolate are fully melted and glossy before adding the rice cereal. If your mixture feels too dry, you can add a splash of melted butter to help bind it together. Conversely, if it’s too wet, incorporate a bit more rice cereal until the desired texture is achieved.

Another point to watch is cooling time. Allow the treats to cool completely in the pan to set properly; otherwise, you'll end up with a gooey mess when you cut them. Typically, this will take about 30 minutes at room temperature. If you're in a hurry, you can place them in the fridge for quicker setting, but be careful not to let them become overly firm, which can happen if left too long.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats

4 cups rice cereal
1 cup milk chocolate chips
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Feel free to customize by adding nuts or sprinkles!

Instructions

Prepare the Pan

Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray.

Melt the Ingredients

In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter, chocolate chips, and peanut butter until smooth. Stir continuously to avoid burning.

Combine with Rice Cereal

Remove from heat and quickly stir in the rice cereal, ensuring all the pieces are evenly coated.

Add Vanilla and Sugar

Mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, stirring until fully combined.

Transfer to Pan

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Using a spatula, press it down firmly and evenly.

Cool and Slice

Allow the treats to cool completely before slicing into squares. Enjoy!

Don’t forget to store leftovers in an airtight container!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding crushed nuts or sprinkles on top before the mixture sets.

Make-Ahead Options and Storage

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats are excellent for making ahead of time. You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come back to room temperature before serving to soften slightly; this will enhance that chewy texture that’s so appealing. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate to prolong freshness.

For longer storage, these treats freeze beautifully. Slice them into squares, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, and separate layers with parchment paper. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This makes them an impeccable option for preparing in bulk or for planning parties and gatherings.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate your Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats, consider drizzling melted chocolate or white chocolate on top after they've cooled. This not only adds visual appeal but also intensifies the chocolate richness. You can sprinkle some sea salt on top to create a sweet and salty contrast, which I personally find irresistible. For a festive touch, sprinkle some colorful sprinkles on top before the chocolate sets.

Feel free to experiment with mix-ins, such as chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or dried fruit for added flavor and texture. Each variation can give your treats a new twist and make them even more enjoyable. You could replace half of the peanut butter with almond butter for a nutty alternative, or even try sun butter to make them nut-free, accommodating friends with allergies while still keeping them delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of chocolate?

Yes, you can use dark chocolate or white chocolate for different flavor profiles.

→ How should I store these treats?

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

→ Can I freeze the rice crispy treats?

Yes, they freeze well! Just wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

→ Is it possible to make these treats vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegan chocolate chips and substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative.