Print

The Best Easy, Chewy Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

Four squares of chewy peanut butter rice krispie treats stacked on a white plate.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make these simple peanut butter Rice Krispie treats for a nostalgic, gooey, and chewy dessert that comes together fast. This no-bake recipe uses just a few ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 (10 ounce) package miniature marshmallows
  • 6 cups crispy rice cereal
  • Optional: 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips for topping

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter.
  3. Add the peanut butter to the melted butter and stir until completely smooth. Remove the pan from the heat.
  4. Add the entire package of marshmallows to the peanut butter mixture. Stir constantly until the marshmallows are fully melted and the mixture is smooth. This step requires patience to keep the heat low and prevent the marshmallows from hardening too quickly.
  5. Pour the crispy rice cereal into the marshmallow mixture. Fold gently with a rubber spatula until the cereal is evenly coated. Do not overmix, as this can make the treats tough.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Lightly press the mixture evenly into the pan using the spatula or a piece of wax paper. Do not press down too firmly, as this affects the chewiness.
  7. If using the chocolate topping, sprinkle the chocolate chips over the warm bars. Let them sit for 5 minutes to soften, then spread them evenly over the top.
  8. Allow the treats to cool and set completely, about 1 hour, before cutting into squares.
  9. Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, if used, and cut into squares.

Notes

  • For the chewiest texture, use fresh marshmallows. Older marshmallows tend to result in harder treats.
  • If you prefer a chocolate topping like Scotcharoos, melt 1 cup of chocolate chips with 1/2 cup of butterscotch chips and 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil, then drizzle or spread over the top layer.
  • To prevent sticking when pressing the mixture into the pan, lightly grease your hands or the back of a spoon with cooking spray or butter.

Nutrition