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rice krispie treats served

Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats

Prep Time 15 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tablespoons  unsalted butter
  • ½  cup  creamy peanut butter
  • 10 ounces  (1 standard bag) mini marshmallows
  • 6 cups  Rice Krispies cereal
  • ½ teaspoon  vanilla extract (option
  • Pinch of salt
Optional toppings:
  • Melted chocolate drizzle
  • Chopped peanuts
  • Mini chocolate chips

Method
 

  1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter and peanut butter over low heat. Stir continuously until smooth and fully combined
  2. Once the butter and peanut butter are melted, add the mini marshmallows to the pan. Stir constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy
  3. Add the vanilla extract and a small pinch of salt (it really enhances the peanut flavor).
  4. Remove the pot from heat and quickly add the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir gently but thoroughly, making sure every bit of cereal is coated with the peanut butter-marshmallow mixture.
  5. Line an 8×8 or 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. The smaller pan makes thicker, chewier bars; the larger one makes thinner, crispier ones
  6. Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan and gently press it down evenly with a buttered spatula or your hands
  7. If you’re adding toppings, now’s the time! Drizzle melted chocolate on top, sprinkle chopped peanuts, or scatter a few chocolate chips before the mixture fully cools.
  8. Let the bars cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

  1. Use fresh marshmallows. Stale or dry ones won’t melt smoothly.
  2. Work quickly. The mixture sets fast, so have your cereal ready to stir in immediately.
  3. Don’t overpack. Press the mixture lightly in the pan — too much pressure makes hard bars.
  4. Add salt. Just a pinch makes the sweetness pop and deepens the peanut butter flavor.
  5. Store covered. These treats dry out if left uncovered, so always keep them sealed.