Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I rummaged through my pantry, I stumbled upon a treasure trove of ingredients just waiting to be turned into something magical. Enter the No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups—a creation that combines the creamy goodness of peanut butter with the sweet charm of chocolate and the delightful crunch of Rice Krispies. What makes these treats even more appealing is their quick prep time and simple assembly, perfect for when those sweet cravings hit unexpectedly. Plus, with endless customization options, you can effortlessly impress friends and family while accommodating various dietary needs. Are you ready to whip up a batch of these irresistible delights? Why are these Rice Krispie Cups amazing? Simplicity: These no-bake cups are incredibly easy to make, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick treat. Customizable: With options like crunchy peanut butter or butterscotch chips, you can tailor them to your taste. Quick & Fun: Whip these up in just 30 minutes, making them an excellent choice for unexpected guests or family fests. Crowd-Pleaser: Their delightful blend of textures and flavors makes them a hit at parties, just like my Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are! Diet-Friendly: Easily adjust the ingredients for vegan or gluten-free versions, ensuring everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. Indulge in these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups for a guaranteed smile! Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Ingredients • Get ready to indulge your taste buds! For the Base Rice Krispies Cereal – Adds the essential crunch and structure; swap for gluten-free crisped rice cereal to make it gluten-free. Creamy Peanut Butter – Provides a rich, velvety flavor; feel free to use crunchy peanut butter for an added crunch. Unsalted Butter – Binds all the ingredients together; use coconut oil for a dairy-free option that still works like a charm. Mini Marshmallows – These sweet little gems help hold everything together; vegan marshmallows can be a great alternative if desired. For the Chocolate Layer Chocolate Chips – Offers a sweet, delicious finish; opt for dark chocolate for a healthier twist, or go for dairy-free chocolate chips to keep it vegan. Vanilla Extract (optional) – Enhances the overall flavor profile, making each bite even more delightful. Sea Salt (optional) – A pinch of this balances the sweetness and brings out the delicious flavors for your Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Step 1: Melt the Base In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 2 cups of mini marshmallows over low heat, stirring consistently for about 5 minutes until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Keep an eye on it to prevent scorching, achieving a silky, glossy texture that indicates it’s ready for the next step. Step 2: Add Peanut Butter Once your butter and marshmallow blend is smooth, remove it from the heat and immediately stir in 1 cup of creamy peanut butter until fully incorporated. If you’re using vanilla extract, add 1 teaspoon now for an extra depth of flavor. The mixture should be creamy and well-combined, inviting you to mix in the cereal next. Step 3: Mix with Cereal In a large mixing bowl, add 4 cups of Rice Krispies cereal and pour in the melted peanut butter mixture. Gently fold the cereal into the mixture for about 2 minutes until every Rice Krispie is coated, ensuring that the mixture holds together well without crushing the cereal. It should appear sticky and cohesive as you combine. Step 4: Shape the Cups Prepare a standard muffin tin by lining it with paper liners. Using a spoon, scoop the mixture and evenly distribute it into each muffin cup, pressing down lightly with the back of the spoon to create a small cup shape. Aim for about 1-2 tablespoons in each, ensuring each is formed well and compacted slightly for stability. Step 5: Add Chocolate Layer Melt 1 cup of chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 20-second intervals and stirring until smooth—this should take around 1-2 minutes total. Once melted, spoon a generous layer of the chocolate over each Rice Krispie cup, spreading it out evenly with a spatula while the chocolate is still warm for a beautiful glossy finish. Step 6: Set & Serve Allow your Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups to cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes or pop them in the refrigerator for a quicker set, around 10-15 minutes. Once firm, carefully remove the paper liners, and get ready to indulge in these delightful treats! Expert Tips for Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Low Heat is Key: When melting the butter and marshmallows, always use low heat to prevent burning. This ensures a smooth mixture for your Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups. Gentle Mixing: Fold the Rice Krispies into the peanut butter mixture gently. Over-mixing can crush the cereal and lead to less crunch. Press Firmly: When shaping the cups in the muffin tin, press down lightly but firmly. This helps keep the structure intact without losing that delightful crunch. Chill for Success: Allow the cups to cool for at least 20 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for a quicker set. This helps the chocolate layer firm up nicely. Customize Flavor: Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations, like adding butterscotch chips or using different nut butters, to make your Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups uniquely yours! Storage Smart: Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness, or freeze for longer storage—just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving! Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Variations Feel free to get creative and customize these treats to fit your tastes and dietary preferences! Nut Butter Swap: Use almond or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative. It’s just as creamy and delicious! Crunchy Twist: Substitute creamy peanut butter for crunchy peanut butter to add texture and a flavorful crunch in each bite. Vegan Version: Replace all ingredients with vegan-friendly options, including chocolate chips and marshmallows for a guilt-free indulgence. Flavor Boost: Mix in butterscotch chips, mini chocolate chunks, or chopped nuts for added flavor surprises that will delight your taste buds. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crisped rice cereal to ensure everyone can enjoy these delightful cups without worry. Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the chocolate layer for a thrilling burst of heat that balances the sweetness. Toppings Galore: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the tops, or sprinkle sea salt on top to elevate the flavors and make them even more irresistible. Perfect for serving at parties or as a snack while indulging in a sweet moment, these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups can easily become a family favorite—just like my Peanut Butter Reeses and Peanut Butter Brownie recipes! What to Serve with Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Elevate your treat experience by pairing these delightful cups with sides that complement their rich flavors and textures. Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of berries and citrus offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cups. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coolness of vanilla ice cream balances the rich peanut butter and chocolate, making every bite irresistible. Chocolate Milkshake: Sip on a thick, velvety chocolate milkshake to double down on the chocolate experience, enhancing the indulgence. Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Add a touch of sweet caramel over your cups; it introduces a new layer of flavor that blends beautifully with chocolate and peanut butter. Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of nutty granola on top gives extra crunch and a wholesome touch, making each bite even more satisfying. Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavor of coffee contrasts the sweetness, creating a delightful pairing for chocolate lovers looking for balance. Chopped Peanuts: Garnish your cups with chopped salted peanuts for an added crunch and a savory note that elevates the dessert. Coconut Whipped Cream: This light, fluffy cream adds a tropical twist and a creamy texture that contrasts perfectly with the cups’ crunch. Storage Tips for Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Room Temperature: Store the cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful texture and flavor. Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate them. They will stay fresh for about 2 weeks in the fridge. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual cups wrapped in plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying. Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these treats, as they taste best chilled or at room temperature—perfect for a quick sweet snack on the go! Make Ahead Options These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal planning! You can prepare the base mixture (steps 1-4) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the shaped cups covered in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to indulge, melt the chocolate and spoon it over the cups as directed in step 5, then let them set. For optimal quality, make sure to refrigerate them once they’ve cooled completely and enjoy the delightful taste that’s just as delicious as when freshly made! Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Recipe FAQs How do I select the right Rice Krispies for this recipe? Absolutely! For the best results, choose a box of Rice Krispies that’s fresh and free from any dark spots or moisture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, substitute with gluten-free crisped rice cereal. You’ll achieve that same delightful crunch without compromising on flavor! What’s the best way to store the Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups? You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’d prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them, where they’ll stay fresh for about 2 weeks. Just ensure they’re well-sealed to prevent them from drying out! Can I freeze these Rice Krispie Cups? If so, how? Absolutely! To freeze your Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups, wrap each cup tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll last for up to 1 month in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. What if my mixture is too sticky or too dry? Very! If your mixture feels too sticky, it’s usually due to an excess of melted marshmallows or peanut butter. Try mixing in a bit more Rice Krispies until you reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too dry, melt a small amount of butter and marshmallows (1 tablespoon each), then fold it into the mix to help bind it better. Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies? Definitely! If there are pets around, keep the cups out of their reach, especially from dogs, as chocolate is toxic to them. As for allergies, be sure to check for any nut allergies with those you’re serving. You can easily swap peanut butter for sunbutter (sunflower seed butter) for a nut-free version! What’s the ideal serving method for these treats? I often serve these delightful cups in their paper liners for easy sharing. They’re perfect for parties or as a sweet snack for family gatherings. Presenting them on a platter with a drizzle of chocolate on top adds that extra touch to wow your guests! Irresistible Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Recipe A delightful blend of creamy peanut butter, chocolate, and crispy Rice Krispies make these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups an irresistible treat. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 5 minutes minsCooling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 12 cupsCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 120 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base4 tablespoons unsalted butter Can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.2 cups mini marshmallows Vegan marshmallows can be used as an alternative.1 cup creamy peanut butter Crunchy peanut butter can be used for added texture.4 cups Rice Krispies cereal Swap for gluten-free crisped rice cereal to make it gluten-free.For the Chocolate Layer1 cup chocolate chips Use dark or dairy-free chocolate chips for variations.1 teaspoon vanilla extract Optional, adds depth to the flavor.1 pinch sea salt Optional, balances the sweetness. Equipment Medium saucepanlarge mixing bowlMuffin tinSpatulaMeasuring cupsTeaspoonMicrowave-safe Bowl Method Preparation StepsIn a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter and mini marshmallows over low heat, stirring continuously for about 5 minutes until smooth.Remove from heat and stir in the creamy peanut butter until well combined; add vanilla extract if desired.In a large mixing bowl, combine the Rice Krispies cereal with the melted peanut butter mixture, folding gently until coated.Prepare a muffin tin with paper liners. Scoop and press the mixture into each cup to form a shape.Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Spoon on top of each Rice Krispie cup.Let the cups cool at room temperature or refrigerate them until set. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 2gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 30mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 100IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 1mg NotesStore the cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, refrigerate for 2 weeks or freeze for 1 month. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
