These peanut butter Rice Krispy treats are an easy, no-bake childhood classic. Thick, chewy, and packed with marshmallows and peanut butter, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
While you’re here, you might also enjoy other easy recipes like Easy Cinnamon Baked Apples, Easy Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats, Healthy Christmas Reindeer Peanut Butter Balls with Rice Krispies, and a CRUMBL Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies copycat.
Peanut butter Rice Krispy treats elevate the familiar classic by adding creamy peanut butter for extra flavor and chew. They use simple pantry ingredients and come together quickly, making them perfect for busy afternoons, school snacks, or last-minute gatherings.
I didn’t grow up with peanut butter or Rice Krispy treats, so trying them for the first time was a revelation. Ever since, they’ve been a nostalgic favorite I love to share.
This is the best homemade peanut butter Rice Krispy treats recipe ever!
This recipe is a reliable go-to whenever you want a quick sweet fix. It’s simple, forgiving, and makes thick, chewy bars that hold up well for serving or packing in lunches.
Why you need to make this recipe!
- This recipe is a staple for anyone who loves quick, nostalgic treats.
- They’re a classic childhood favorite that adults still love.
- Perfect for peanut butter lovers seeking extra flavor.
- A simple twist that upgrades regular Rice Krispy treats.
- Ready in minutes with minimal cleanup.
- Thick, chewy, and filled with marshmallows and peanut butter.
Ingredients for these peanut butter Rice Krispy treats
Below are the core ingredients. Refer to the recipe card for exact measurements and options.
- Butter – salted or unsalted both work; melt before combining.
- Peanut butter – use smooth peanut butter (avoid natural varieties that separate, which can affect texture).
- Marshmallows – large or mini marshmallows are fine; use fresh marshmallows for best results.
- Rice Krispy cereal – any puffed rice cereal will do, store-brand or name-brand.
How to make peanut butter Rice Krispy treats at home
These treats can be made on the stovetop or in the microwave. Both methods are quick; choose whichever you prefer. Full step-by-step instructions are available in the recipe card below.
- Melt butter, then add marshmallows and melt until smooth (stovetop or microwave).
- Mix in peanut butter until combined and creamy.
- Fold in Rice Krispies until mostly coated, then gently add any additional mini marshmallows.
- Spread the mixture into a prepared pan and let set about 30 minutes before slicing.
Scroll down to the recipe card for the precise microwave and stovetop methods and ingredient quantities.
Frequently asked questions – FAQ
How do I store Rice Krispy treats?
These treats taste best the day they’re made, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they firm up, warm them in the microwave for 5–10 seconds before serving to soften slightly.
How can I take these up a notch?
Small additions make a big difference. Try one of these ideas:
- Fold in extra mini marshmallows for extra chew.
- Top with melted chocolate or a chocolate drizzle for a richer bar.
- Stir in mini chocolate chips or peanut butter chips.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top to balance the sweetness.
- Drizzle with melted peanut butter or chocolate for a finishing touch.
Tips to make the best peanut butter Rice Krispie treats
These tricks will help you avoid common pitfalls and get soft, chewy bars every time:
- Use fresh marshmallows – stale marshmallows won’t melt properly and can make bars hard.
- Line the pan with parchment – this makes removing and slicing the bars much easier.
- Prevent sticking – lightly spray your hands with cooking spray or wet them slightly when pressing the mixture into the pan.
- Don’t over-press – press gently so the bars stay light and chewy rather than dense and hard.
Peanut butter Rice Krispy treats
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Peanut butter Rice Krispy treats with marshmallows
Print Recipe
Ingredients
- 10 oz mini marshmallows
- 1/4 cup butter melted
- 1/2 cup peanut butter melted
- 5 cup rice krispies
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows optional
Instructions
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Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
Microwave method
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In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt 10 ounces of marshmallows for 30–60 seconds until smooth. Stir in the melted butter and melted peanut butter until fully combined. Add the Rice Krispies and fold gently until coated, then fold in the optional 1/2 cup mini marshmallows.
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Spread the mixture into the prepared pan without pressing too hard. Let set about 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Stovetop method
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Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add 10 ounces of marshmallows, reduce heat to low, and stir until melted.
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Remove from heat, stir in peanut butter until smooth, then add Rice Krispies and mix until almost fully coated. Fold in the remaining mini marshmallows.
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Spread the mixture in the prepared pan without over-packing and let set for about 30 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
Thanks for reading — I appreciate you making it to the end!
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and let me know how it turned out.
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