Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars

These super delicious peanut butter rice krispie treats take the classic recipe and add a salty, nutty twist that makes them irresistible. With a perfect balance of gooey, crispy, and chewy textures, this easy no bake dessert has become a pantry favorite for quick sweet cravings. You only need four simple ingredients and about 15 minutes to bring these bars together, making them perfect for last minute treats or a fun snack to share.

I first made these on a lazy Sunday afternoon when I craved something quick but satisfying. Since then, they have become a go to treat for birthdays and after school snacks in my house

Ingredients

• Butter: for richness and to help melt the marshmallows which bind the bars together, choose unsalted butter for better control of saltiness
• Peanut butter: adds that salty, creamy, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness. Creamy peanut butter works best for smooth texture, but crunchy can add nice bites
• Mini marshmallows: are essential for sweetness and the gooey consistency, fresh ones melt smoothly while old marshmallows can make the mixture grainy
• Crispy rice cereal: provides the signature light crunch and mild flavor that pairs beautifully with peanut butter and marshmallows. Look for fresh cereal for the best texture

Instructions

Melt butter and peanut butter:

Place the butter and peanut butter in a large saucepan or pot over low to medium heat

Stir until smooth:

Stir frequently until both are fully melted and blended into a smooth mixture, taking your time here ensures nothing burns and your treats stay soft

Add marshmallows:

Add the mini marshmallows gradually, stirring constantly until they are completely melted and incorporated. This step creates the gooey base that holds the cereal together

Fold in cereal:

Remove from heat and gently fold in the crispy rice cereal, mixing until the cereal is evenly coated but without crushing it. You want to keep the light, airy texture intact

Prepare the pan:

Prepare an 8 by 8 inch pan by greasing it or lining with parchment paper to prevent sticking

Transfer and press:

Transfer the mixture into the pan and press lightly into an even layer. Avoid pressing too hard or your treats will end up dense instead of light and chewy

Cool before slicing:

Let the treats cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing to allow them to set perfectly

These treats hold a special place in my heart because peanut butter has always been my favorite comfort flavor. Every time I make these, I think about the joy of sharing simple bites that bring people together whether it’s an impromptu playdate or a cozy weekend movie night. The salty and sweet combo never fails to make everyone smile.

Storage Tips

Store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and fresh for up to four days. If you need to keep them longer, wrap them tightly in plastic and freeze for up to six months. When frozen, allow them to come fully to room temperature before eating to regain that perfect chewiness.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap peanut butter for any nut or seed butter like almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter for a different twist. For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of butter. Mini marshmallows can be swapped for regular marshmallows chopped into smaller pieces but adjust the quantity as needed.

Serving Suggestions

These peanut butter rice krispie treats are fantastic on their own as a snack or dessert. Serve with a glass of cold milk or your favorite coffee for a comforting treat. They also pair nicely with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a little extra indulgence.

These treats are best enjoyed at room temperature for the ideal chewy texture. Store them airtight and they will stay soft for several days.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Why are my Rice Krispie bars hard?

Using too high heat or pressing the mixture too firmly can cause bars to become dense and hard. Melt ingredients slowly over low heat and press gently.

→ Can I substitute marshmallows with something else?

While marshmallows help bind the bars, you can try melted white chocolate or homemade marshmallow fluff, but texture may vary.

→ What happens if I add too much butter?

Excess butter can make bars greasy and softer, affecting texture and shelf life. Stick to the recommended amount for best results.

→ How can I store these bars for freshness?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days or freeze up to 6 months. Let thaw before serving.

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds texture and a more rustic flavor, though the overall consistency might be slightly different.