Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
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
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
- Prepare the Pan: Butter or spray a 9×13-inch pan to ensure the Rice Krispie mixture doesn’t stick, then set it aside.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Peanut Butter Cups: Evenly place all 24 unwrapped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups over the first layer of Rice Krispies in the pan.
- 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.
- 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.
- Decorate and Set: Spread the warm chocolate ganache evenly over the top of the cooled Rice Krispie treats. Let it set until firm.
- 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