Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Introduction

These Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats take the classic marshmallow cereal treat to the next level with rich peanut butter and a chocolate drizzle. Perfectly gooey and irresistibly chocolatey, they make a delightful snack or dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 8 cups mini marshmallows (from 16 oz bag)
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 7 cups plain Rice Krispies cereal
• 24 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, unwrapped
• 2 cups chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

Instructions

1. Step 1: Butter or spray a 9×13-inch pan and set it aside.
2. Step 2: Melt the butter over low heat in a saucepan. Add the marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted. Then stir in the peanut butter until smooth.
3. Step 3: Pour the Rice Krispies cereal into the marshmallow mixture and stir until fully combined. Quickly press half of this mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
4. Step 4: Arrange the 24 peanut butter cups evenly over the pressed Rice Krispies layer in the pan.
5. Step 5: Spoon the remaining Rice Krispies mixture over the peanut butter cups and press down gently to create an even layer. Let the treats cool completely.
6. Step 6: In a saucepan, combine the chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring until melted and creamy.
7. Step 7: Spread the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the cooled Rice Krispie treats. Allow the chocolate to set before cutting into 24 squares.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped peanuts over the chocolate layer before it sets.
• Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture.
• Substitute mini peanut butter cups for a different bite-sized peanut butter candy.
• Press the Rice Krispie mixture firmly to avoid crumbly bars.

Storage

Store the Rice Krispie treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them chilled, keep them in the refrigerator but bring to room temperature before serving for best texture. Reheating is not necessary.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but it may affect the texture slightly, making the treats a bit less smooth. Stir well to ensure it blends evenly with the marshmallow mixture.

How do I prevent the chocolate topping from cracking?

Make sure to melt the chocolate and cream together gently and spread it evenly while still warm. Let the treats set at room temperature to avoid cracks caused by rapid cooling in the fridge.

Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 60 reviews

These Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats are an indulgent twist on the classic rice krispie snack. Layers of gooey marshmallow and peanut butter-infused cereal are topped with whole peanut butter cups and a luscious chocolate ganache, making for a rich, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for parties or anytime you want a sweet treat.

• Author: Kai
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 24 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 8 cups mini marshmallows (from 16 oz bag)
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 7 cups plain Rice Krispies cereal
• 24 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, unwrapped

Chocolate Ganache Topping

• 2 cups chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Butter or spray a 9×13 inch pan and set it aside to ensure the treats don’t stick after setting.
2. Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they are completely melted and smooth. This creates the base sticky mixture.
3. Add Peanut Butter: Stir the creamy peanut butter into the melted marshmallow mixture thoroughly, ensuring an even flavor throughout.
4. Combine with Cereal: Pour the Rice Krispies cereal into the marshmallow-peanut butter mixture. Stir gently but completely to coat all cereal evenly. Quickly press half of this mixture into the prepared pan, forming the first layer.
5. Add Peanut Butter Cups: Arrange the 24 unwrapped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups evenly over the pressed cereal layer for a delicious surprise in every bite.
6. Top with Remaining Mixture: Spoon the remaining Rice Krispies mixture over the peanut butter cups in the pan and press it down firmly to seal the candy cups between cereal layers. Allow to cool completely so it holds its shape.
7. Prepare Chocolate Ganache: In a saucepan over low to medium heat, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream. Heat gently while stirring until melted and smooth, forming a creamy ganache.
8. Finish and Set: Spread the warm ganache evenly over the top layer of the Rice Krispie treats. Let the chocolate set at room temperature before cutting into 24 squares for serving.
9. Storage: Store the treats in a sealed container at room temperature to keep them fresh and delicious.

Notes

• Use creamy peanut butter for the best texture and flavor integration.
• Press the cereal mixture firmly to prevent the treats from falling apart.
• Allow the treats to cool completely before spreading the ganache to avoid melting.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For a firmer finish, refrigerate after adding the ganache but bring to room temperature before serving.

Keywords: Peanut Butter Cups, Rice Krispie Treats, Marshmallow, Chocolate Ganache, Easy Dessert, Party Treat, Peanut Butter Dessert