Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Recipe
Introduction
Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups are a delightful twist on a classic treat, combining crunchy cereal with creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate. These no-bake cups are easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
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 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 into a large bowl. Add the peanut butter mixture and gently fold 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 create 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 chill in the refrigerator to set faster. Once firm, remove the paper liners and serve.
Tips & Variations
- Keep the heat low when melting ingredients to prevent burning and maintain a smooth texture. Stir constantly for best results.
- Press the mixture lightly when shaping the cups to retain the crispness of the Rice Krispies.
- Chill the cups for at least 20 minutes to ensure a firm chocolate layer that won’t melt when served.
- For a nut-free version, substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
- Add chopped nuts or a sprinkle of crushed pretzels inside the mixture for added texture.
Storage
Store the rice krispie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If refrigerated, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best texture. Avoid freezing, as this can affect the crunchiness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter can be used for added texture, but it may change the smoothness of the mixture slightly.
How do I prevent the chocolate topping from melting?
Make sure to chill the cups in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes after adding the chocolate layer. Serving them cool helps keep the chocolate firm and prevents melting.
PrintChocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Recipe
Delicious and easy-to-make Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups combining the classic crunchy Rice Krispies with creamy peanut butter and a smooth chocolate topping. Perfect as a sweet treat or dessert for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12–14 cups 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Base
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- Pinch of sea salt (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Melt the Base: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and mini marshmallows, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Add Peanut Butter: Stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract (if using) until the mixture is creamy and fully incorporated.
- Mix with Cereal: Pour the Rice Krispies cereal into a large bowl, then add the peanut butter mixture. Gently fold all together until every piece of cereal is evenly coated.
- Shape the Cups: Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Evenly spoon the mixture into each cup and press down lightly to create a flat surface, being careful not to compress the mixture too much to maintain crunchiness.
- Add Chocolate Layer: Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Spoon the melted chocolate over each rice krispie cup and spread evenly. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top if desired.
- Set & Serve: Allow the cups to cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes or refrigerate to set the chocolate faster. Once firm, peel off the paper liners and serve.
Notes
- Low Heat is Key: Melt the butter, marshmallows, and peanut butter on low heat and stir constantly to prevent burning and achieve a creamy texture.
- Press Gently: Press the mixture lightly into the muffin cups to preserve the crunch of the Rice Krispies.
- Chill for Best Results: Refrigerate the cups for at least 20 minutes to let the chocolate layer set firmly, preventing it from melting when served.
Keywords: Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups, Rice Krispie Treats, Peanut Butter Dessert, Chocolate Rice Krispie Cups, Easy No-Bake Treats, Kid-friendly Snacks
