Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups
Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups are the sweetest little treats that combine the best of chocolate, peanut butter, and crispy cereal into a delightful snack. Perfect for any occasion, these delicious cups are easy to make and will satisfy any craving for something sweet and crunchy.
Why Make This Recipe
There’s something incredibly nostalgic about Rice Krispie treats, and when you add chocolate and peanut butter to the mix, it takes the experience to a whole new level. These cups offer the perfect balance between sweetness and saltiness, making them an irresistible treat for both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re preparing a special dessert for a gathering or simply indulging yourself at home, these cups are perfect!
Not only do they taste fantastic, but they are also easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. Plus, they’re versatile enough to be customized, allowing you to have fun with different flavors while still sticking to the classic combo of chocolate and peanut butter.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups
Making Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Let’s dive into the steps you’ll need to follow to create these delightful treats!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Directions:
1️⃣ Melt the Base: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and mini marshmallows while stirring consistently until smooth.
2️⃣ Add Peanut Butter: Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract (if using) until fully combined and creamy.
3️⃣ Mix with Cereal: Pour the Rice Krispies into a large bowl and add the peanut butter mixture. Gently fold until all the cereal is coated evenly.
4️⃣ Shape the Cups: Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Spoon the mixture evenly into each cup and press down gently to form a flat surface.
5️⃣ Add Chocolate Layer: Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Spoon the melted chocolate over each cup and spread evenly. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
6️⃣ Set & Serve: Allow the cups to cool at room temperature for 20 minutes or place them in the refrigerator to set faster. Once firm, remove the paper liners and serve!
Pro Tips for Success Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your marshmallows and chocolate chips are fresh for the best flavor and texture. This will significantly impact the final product.
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Don’t Overheat: When melting the butter and marshmallows, be sure to do it over low heat. High heat can burn the marshmallows and change the texture of your treats.
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Press Firmly: When you’re shaping the cups, make sure to press the mixture firmly into the muffin tin. This will help them hold their shape and make it easier to remove them later.
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Experiment with Chocolate: While semi-sweet chocolate chips are traditional, feel free to experiment with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate for a unique twist.
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Wear an Apron: Melted chocolate can be a bit tricky and messy, so wearing an apron can help keep your clothes safe while you cook!
Flavor Variations Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups
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Add Nuts: Mix in chopped peanuts or other nuts for added crunch and flavor.
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Use Different Cereal: Swap out Rice Krispies for another type of cereal such as Cocoa Krispies or Fruity Pebbles for a fun flavor twist.
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Include Extras: Feel free to add in extras like dried fruit, mini candies, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness.
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Try Different Nut Butters: Substitute the creamy peanut butter with almond butter or sun butter for a nut-free option that still tastes fantastic.
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Make it Minty: Adding a few drops of mint extract to the chocolate layer can create a refreshing mint chocolate flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.
Serving Suggestions Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups
Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups are perfect for various occasions. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your snacking experience:
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As a Party Snack: Serve them on a platter during birthday parties or gatherings for simple sharing.
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With Ice Cream: Top with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a fantastic sundae.
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In Lunchboxes: These treats make great snacks for kids’ lunchboxes, providing a sweet surprise during the day.
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Gift Them: Package them in a cute box or jar to give as a thoughtful gift to friends or family.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups
To keep your Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups fresh, follow these storage tips:
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Room Temperature: Store the cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
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Refrigeration: To extend their freshness, you can store them in the refrigerator. They will last about 10-14 days when chilled.
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Freezing: If you want to save some for later, these cups can also be frozen. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure to thaw in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————|————-|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
FAQ About Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups
Can I use organic ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use organic Rice Krispies, peanut butter, butter, and chocolate chips to make your Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups. This can enhance the flavor and provide a healthier alternative if that’s your preference.
How can I make these treats more decadent?
To make your cups even more decadent, consider adding a layer of caramel sauce before topping with chocolate. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts or crushed cookies on top of the chocolate layer for added texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have a muffin tin?
If you don’t have a muffin tin, you can shape the mixture into bars or balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Just adjust the cooling time accordingly; bars may need more time to set properly.
Can I make these treats vegan?
Yes! To make Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups vegan, simply use dairy-free butter, vegan marshmallows, and dark chocolate chips that do not contain dairy. There are plenty of great alternatives available on the market.
How do I avoid getting sticky hands when shaping the cups?
Using a little bit of cooking spray on your hands can help keep the mixture from sticking to you while you shape the cups. Alternatively, you can use wet hands to mold the treats without them sticking.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups are a delightful treat that combines the flavors we all love into a fun, crispy, and chewy snack. They are incredibly versatile, easy to make, and a hit with both kids and adults. So whether you’re prepping for a party, looking for a sweet treat, or just want to indulge, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and bring joy to your kitchen. Enjoy making (and eating) these sweet, crunchy cups—your taste buds will thank you!
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Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful treats that combine chocolate, peanut butter, and crispy cereal into a perfect snack.
Ingredients
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Melt the Base: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and mini marshmallows while stirring consistently until smooth.
- Add Peanut Butter: Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract (if using) until fully combined and creamy.
- Mix with Cereal: Pour the Rice Krispies into a large bowl and add the peanut butter mixture. Gently fold until all the cereal is coated evenly.
- Shape the Cups: Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Spoon the mixture evenly into each cup and press down gently to form a flat surface.
- Add Chocolate Layer: Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Spoon the melted chocolate over each cup and spread evenly. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
- Set & Serve: Allow the cups to cool at room temperature for 20 minutes or place them in the refrigerator to set faster. Once firm, remove the paper liners and serve!
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for best flavor. Experiment with different types of chocolate and nut butters.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
