Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Recipe
Introduction
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups are a delightful twist on a classic treat, combining the crunchy texture of Rice Krispies with creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, they’re easy to make and loved by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and mini marshmallows, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth.
- Step 2: Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract (if using) until fully combined and creamy.
- Step 3: Pour the Rice Krispies cereal into a large bowl and gently fold in the peanut butter mixture until all the cereal is evenly coated.
- Step 4: Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Spoon the mixture evenly into each cup and press down gently to form a flat surface.
- Step 5: Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Spoon the melted chocolate over each cup and spread evenly. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
- Step 6: Let the cups cool at room temperature for 20 minutes or place them in the refrigerator to set more quickly. Once firm, remove the paper liners and serve.
Tips & Variations
- For a crunchier texture, toast the Rice Krispies lightly before mixing.
- Substitute crunchy peanut butter for an extra nutty bite.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a richer chocolate flavor.
- Try adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for added texture and flavor contrast.
Storage
Store the Rice Krispie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. If refrigerated, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, but natural peanut butter may result in a slightly different texture and may separate more easily during mixing. Stir well before combining with other ingredients.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, simply ensure the Rice Krispies cereal you use is labeled gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
PrintChocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Recipe
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups are a delightful no-bake treat combining the crunch of Rice Krispies with creamy peanut butter and a rich chocolate topping. Perfect as a quick dessert or snack, these cups are easy to make and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth with their harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 cups 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Optional
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Melt the Base: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter and mini marshmallows together. Stir consistently until the mixture is smooth and fully combined to ensure an even base texture.
- Add Peanut Butter: Stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract, if using, until the mixture becomes fully integrated and creamy, making it easy to coat the cereal.
- Mix with Cereal: Pour the Rice Krispies cereal into a large bowl. Gently fold the peanut butter mixture into the cereal, ensuring every piece is evenly coated without crushing the cereal’s crispness.
- Shape the Cups: Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Spoon the coated cereal mixture evenly into each cup and press down gently to create a compact, flat surface for the chocolate layer.
- Add Chocolate Layer: Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave using 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth. Spoon the melted chocolate evenly over each cup and spread it out uniformly. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt if desired for a flavor contrast.
- Set & Serve: Allow the cups to cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes or place them in the refrigerator to set faster. Once firm, peel off the paper liners and serve your delicious chocolate peanut butter Rice Krispie cups.
Notes
- Using creamy peanut butter ensures better binding and a smoother texture.
- Mini marshmallows melt faster and blend more evenly into the base.
- You can substitute chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate based on preference.
- For a quicker set, refrigerate the cups for 15 minutes instead of letting them cool at room temperature.
- Sprinkling sea salt adds a nice balance to the sweetness but can be omitted for a milder taste.
Keywords: Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups, no-bake dessert, peanut butter treats, Rice Krispies snacks, easy chocolate peanut butter cups
