Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Introduction

These Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats take a classic favorite to the next level by layering gooey marshmallow, peanut butter, and crunchy Rice Krispies with luscious peanut butter cups and a smooth chocolate topping. Perfect for parties or an indulgent snack, they’re easy to make and irresistible to eat.

Ingredients

• 8 cups mini marshmallows (from 16 oz bag)
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 7 cups plain Rice Krispies cereal
• 24 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, unwrapped
• 2 cups chocolate chips
• ½ 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 mini marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted. Stir in the creamy peanut butter until well combined.
3. Step 3: Pour the Rice Krispies cereal into the marshmallow mixture and stir gently until the cereal is fully coated.
4. Step 4: Quickly press half of the Rice Krispies mixture into the prepared pan in an even layer.
5. Step 5: Arrange the 24 peanut butter cups evenly over the layer of Rice Krispies in the pan.
6. Step 6: Spoon the remaining Rice Krispies mixture over the peanut butter cups and press down firmly to seal the layers together. Allow it to cool completely.
7. Step 7: In a saucepan, combine the chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
8. Step 8: Spread the chocolate mixture evenly over the top of the cooled Rice Krispie treats. Let the chocolate set fully before cutting into 24 squares.

Tips & Variations

• Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture if you prefer a bit of bite in the treats.
• For a nut-free version, substitute the peanut butter cups with chocolate caramel cups or simply omit and add extra marshmallows.
• To make cutting easier, chill the treats for about 30 minutes before slicing.

Storage

Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week. If refrigerated, allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. These treats do not require reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes, regular marshmallows will work fine. You might need to cut them into smaller pieces for easier melting and mixing.

What if I don’t have heavy whipping cream for the chocolate topping?

You can substitute with an equal amount of whole milk or half-and-half, but the topping may be slightly less rich and creamy.

Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

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These Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats combine the classic crispy marshmallow base with creamy peanut butter and melted peanut butter cups for a rich, indulgent twist. Topped with a smooth chocolate ganache made from chocolate chips and heavy cream, these treats are perfect for parties, snacks, or anytime you crave a nostalgic sweet with a peanut buttery punch.

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

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 8 cups mini marshmallows (from a 16 oz bag)
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 7 cups plain Rice Krispies cereal
• 24 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, unwrapped

Chocolate Ganache Topping

• 2 cups chocolate chips
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Butter or spray a 9×13-inch pan to ensure the Rice Krispie mixture doesn’t stick, then set it aside.
2. Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they are completely melted and smooth. Stir in the creamy peanut butter until well combined.
3. Mix in Cereal: Pour the plain Rice Krispies cereal into the marshmallow mixture. Stir thoroughly until every piece is coated with the marshmallow-peanut butter mixture.
4. Layer Half the Mixture: Quickly press half of the Rice Krispie mixture into the prepared pan in an even layer, working fast before the mixture sets.
5. Add Peanut Butter Cups: Evenly place all 24 unwrapped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups over the first layer of Rice Krispies in the pan.
6. Top with Remaining Mixture: Spoon the remaining Rice Krispie mixture over the peanut butter cups. Press down firmly to seal the layers together, then allow the entire treat to cool completely.
7. Make Chocolate Ganache: In a saucepan over low to medium heat, combine the chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream. Heat gently, stirring constantly until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is creamy and smooth.
8. Decorate and Set: Spread the warm chocolate ganache evenly over the top of the cooled Rice Krispie treats. Let it set until firm.
9. Serve: Once set, cut into 24 squares. Store the treats in a sealed container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Notes

• Work quickly when pressing the Rice Krispie mixture into the pan as it hardens as it cools.
• If peanut allergies are a concern, substitute peanut butter and peanut butter cups with a safe alternative like almond butter and chocolate candies without peanuts.
• For easier spreading, slightly warm the chocolate ganache if it firms up before spreading.
• Store treats at room temperature up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness; let them come to room temperature before serving for best texture.
• Use gloves or buttered hands to press the mixture into the pan to prevent sticking.

Keywords: Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats, Rice Krispie Treats with peanut butter cups, chocolate ganache topping, easy no-bake treats, classic rice krispie dessert