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: 16 squares
Ingredients: 3 cups rice crispy cereal; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup light corn syrup; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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I absolutely love making these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats because they combine two of my favorite flavors: chocolate and peanut butter! It’s such a quick and simple recipe that brings back wonderful childhood memories. Each bite is packed with a satisfying crunch, while the gooey peanut butter and rich chocolate create an indulgent balance. Perfect for a sweet snack or a festive treat, these crispy bars are always a hit, and I can’t resist sneaking a piece whenever I make them!

Created by

Celia Winterbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-11T17:59:34.919Z

When I first made these treats, I couldn’t believe how easy and delicious they turned out! It was a fun experience melting the chocolate and mixing it with the peanut butter for that creamy texture. If you want to elevate these treats, try using quality dark chocolate; it adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the peanut butter perfectly.

I also discovered that allowing the mixture to cool slightly before adding the rice cereal helps achieve a nicer texture, preventing it from becoming too hard. These little tips have transformed my treats into a go-to recipe that my friends and family adore!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate and peanut butter duo in every bite
Crispy texture that satisfies your sweet cravings
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion

      

The Importance of Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in the final flavor and texture of these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats. The rice crispy cereal provides the delightful crunch that defines this treat, while the creamy peanut butter not only adds depth but also binds the ingredients together. Make sure to choose creamy peanut butter to ensure a smooth melt and easier mixing; chunky varieties could disrupt the texture.

Light corn syrup is not just a sweetener in this recipe; it helps maintain moisture and prevents the treats from becoming overly hard or dry. Using a robust and high-quality chocolate chip will also elevate the treat's richness. Dark chocolate chips can be used for a more intense chocolate flavor, while milk chocolate will lend a sweeter profile.

Techniques for Perfect Texture

When melting the peanut butter and corn syrup, keep an eye on the heat. It's essential to maintain medium heat to prevent scorching, which can happen in no time. Stir continuously until the mixture is glossy and well combined; this should take about 3-5 minutes. If the mixture begins to bubble vigorously, reduce the heat immediately to avoid cooking the sugar too much.

Ensure you fold the cereal gently but thoroughly to coat each grain evenly with the chocolate-peanut butter blend. Overmixing can lead to broken cereal pieces, which diminishes the desired texture. Once combined, transfer the mixture quickly to your baking dish; it sets as it cools, and you want to shape it while it remains warm and malleable.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful treats:

Ingredients

3 cups rice crispy cereal
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your homemade treats:

Melt the Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the peanut butter and corn syrup. Stir until melted and well combined, then remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract.

Add Chocolate

In the same saucepan, immediately stir in the chocolate chips until melted. This will create a creamy chocolate-peanut butter blend.

Combine with Cereal

In a large bowl, pour the rice crispy cereal. Pour the melted mixture over the cereal and gently fold until fully coated.

Set the Treats

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x9 inch baking dish and press down firmly. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your treats as a delightful snack or dessert!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding mini marshmallows or chopped nuts into the mixture. You can also drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an extra touch.

Storage and Shelf Life

To store your Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain fresh for up to a week, although I often find they disappear much sooner! If you anticipate needing them to last longer, consider refrigerating them; this can extend their freshness by another week.

If you opt for freezing, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and they’ll taste just as delicious!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These treats can be easily customized to fit your taste preferences. Add-ins like mini marshmallows, diced dried fruit, or chopped nuts can create delightful variations in texture and flavor. For an extra crunch, consider drizzling additional melted chocolate on top or sprinkling sea salt for a sweet-salty contrast.

If you are looking for a more decadent treat, layer the mixture in the baking dish with a layer of melted chocolate in the middle. This creates a rich sandwich effect that elevates each bite. Experimenting with flavored extracts, like almond or coconut, can also enhance the overall flavor profile in unexpected ways.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cereal?

Yes, you can substitute rice crispy cereal with other types like corn flakes or puffed wheat.

→ How do I store the treats?

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

→ Can I make them vegan?

Yes, use dairy-free chocolate chips and ensure your peanut butter does not contain any animal products.

→ What kind of peanut butter works best?

Creamy peanut butter is recommended for a smoother texture. If you prefer crunchy, feel free to use that too!