Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats

Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 12 treats
Ingredients: 3 cups rice crispy cereal; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1/4 cup honey; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes

I love whipping up these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats when I want something quick yet indulgent. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter creates a decadent treat that is impossible to resist. They're not just easy to make but also bring back wonderful childhood memories. With just a handful of ingredients, I can have a delicious dessert ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings or sharing with friends and family.

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:57:35.921Z

I remember the first time I made these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats; it was a rainy afternoon, and the kids were feeling restless. We melted the chocolate and peanut butter together and mixed it with the crispy rice cereal, and just that moment filled the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. The key is to mix quickly before the chocolate sets to ensure every crispy piece is coated.

These treats are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. I love adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for that perfect balance of sweet and salty. The joy of watching everyone enjoy these treats reminds me that sometimes the simplest recipes create the fondest memories!

        Why You Will Love These Treats
        Irresistible combination of chocolate and peanut butter
Quick and easy preparation with minimal ingredients
Perfect for parties, snacks, or a sweet indulgence

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor profile. The rice crispy cereal provides a delightful crunch, while creamy peanut butter offers a rich, velvety base. Honey acts not only as a sweetener but also helps bind the ingredients, ensuring the treats hold their shape. The chocolate chips, when melted, add a luscious layer of chocolatey goodness, making each bite feel indulgent and satisfying.

When it comes to peanut butter, choosing a creamy variety is essential for smooth incorporation into your treat mixture. If you're looking for a healthier swap, natural peanut butter can work; however, you may need to adjust the honey slightly to achieve the right sweetness. Additionally, using dark chocolate chips can elevate the treat’s depth of flavor, creating a wonderful contrast with the sweetness of the honey.

Mastering the Technique

Getting the melt just right is key to a successful mix. When combining your peanut butter, chocolate chips, and honey, heat them on low to medium heat and stir frequently. You'll know it’s done when the mixture is smooth and glossy, without any lumps. A common mistake is overheating, which can cause the chocolate to seize or burn, so keep an eye on it, and remove it from the heat as soon as it achieves that desired consistency.

Pressing the mixture firmly into the baking dish is another important step. Use a spatula to firmly pack it down, ensuring the mixture holds together once cooled. I like to place a piece of parchment paper on top and use my hands to really press it in, creating a compact base that will not crumble when cut into squares.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious treats!

Ingredients

3 cups rice crispy cereal
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup chocolate chips
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt (optional)

Make sure all your ingredients are measured accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your treats!

Prepare the Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine the creamy peanut butter, chocolate chips, honey, and salt. Heat over low-medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.

Combine with Cereal

Once the mixture is smooth, remove it from heat and add the vanilla extract. Stir in the rice crispy cereal until all pieces are evenly coated.

Shape the Treats

Line a 9x9 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the dish and press it down firmly with a spatula. This helps the treats hold together better.

Cool and Cut

Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes. Once cooled, lift it out of the dish using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve your delicious treats with a drizzle of melted chocolate on top, if desired. Enjoy!

Now enjoy your delicious homemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats!

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, you can mix in some chopped nuts or mini marshmallows before pressing the mixture into the baking dish.

Storage Tips

To keep your Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will last for up to one week, though I find they're often gone well before that! If you’d like to make them ahead of time, they can also be frozen. Just cut them into squares, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay good for about a month, making them perfect for future cravings.

When ready to enjoy from frozen, simply remove a square and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. They'll soften nicely without losing their crunch. If you prefer, you can also warm them slightly in the microwave for just a few seconds to enjoy a gooey, melty treat—just be careful not to overdo it!

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your treats with a simple drizzle of melted chocolate on top before serving. You can melt additional chocolate chips—dark or white—using the microwave or a double boiler. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes for a beautiful presentation, especially if you're making these for a gathering or celebration.

Consider pairing these treats with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. The creamy, cold texture of ice cream complements the chewy, crunchy treats splendidly. Alternatively, they can be served alongside fresh fruit, which provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of chocolate and peanut butter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture to the treats.

→ How should I store the treats?

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

→ Can I make these treats vegan?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free chocolate chips and maple syrup instead of honey.

→ What can I use instead of rice crispy cereal?

You can substitute with any puffed cereal or even crushed graham crackers for a different flavor.