Who doesn’t love the combination of chocolate and peanut butter? When I discovered my kids’ equal enthusiasm for classic rice krispie treats and this iconic flavor duo, this recipe was born. These no bake treats come together in minutes, and any peanut butter lover will be delighted by this creative spin on the traditional rice krispie treat. Each square is infused with rich peanut butter and crowned with a thick layer of chocolate, taking this classic rice krispies recipe to a whole new level. These peanut butter chocolate rice krispie treats feature a perfect crispy texture from the rice cereal folded into a luscious peanut butter-marshmallow mixture, creating an irresistible no bake dessert recipe.

If you’re craving more no bake treats featuring that irresistible chocolate-peanut butter combination, don’t miss our Peanut Butter Granola Cups, Chocolate Peanut Butter Macadamia Nut Fudge, or Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Box Pie. Looking for more easy recipe options that don’t require turning on the oven? Here are some fantastic alternatives: Peppermint Marshmallows, Hot Cocoa Dip, Chocolate Dipped Paleo Churros, and Paleo Protein Cookie Dough Balls.

How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats

Start by preparing your baking dish (9×13 inch) by lining it with parchment paper or wax paper. If using parchment paper, a light coating of cooking spray helps ensure easy removal once set.

Place a large pot over medium heat on your stove top. Melt the butter, then blend in the peanut butter until smooth. Once your peanut butter mixture is well combined, add marshmallows, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Turn off the heat when just a few marshmallows remain unmelted – the residual warmth from the marshmallow mixture will complete the melting process. Stir in vanilla extract until incorporated.

Working quickly, fold in the rice crispy cereal until evenly coated. Transfer this cereal mixture to the prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer.

To compress, cover with a piece of parchment paper and use the flat bottom of a measuring cup to press down firmly, ensuring consistent thickness throughout.

For the chocolate topping, you have two options: (1) Microwave: Using a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate and coconut (or avocado) oil in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. (2) Double Boiler: Alternatively, create a double boiler by placing a glass or metal bowl over a saucepan containing about an inch of simmering water. Add chocolate and oil to the bowl, stirring until you achieve smooth melted chocolate.

Pour the chocolate over your pressed peanut butter marshmallow base, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface.

Allow to set in the refrigerator for 2 hours (or 45 minutes in the freezer). Once firm, lift the entire block from the baking dish using the parchment paper edges as handles. Cut into chocolate peanut butter rice krispie squares, approximately one inch each, creating perfect bite-sized treats.

Simple Ingredients

Butter – Using salted butter in this recipe creates the perfect sweet and slightly salty combination. If using unsalted butter, add a pinch of salt to achieve the same flavor balance.
Mini Marshmallows – While large marshmallows can be used, mini marshmallows are preferred as they melt more quickly and evenly throughout the mixture.
Peanut Butter – Smooth and creamy peanut butter works best for this recipe. Natural peanut butter is also suitable, just ensure it fully melts into the butter. Avoid chunky peanut butter as it will alter the desired texture of the final product.
Rice Crisp Cereal – Traditional Rice Krispies cereal, while primarily made from rice, contains malt derived from barley, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, be sure to use certified gluten-free rice crispy cereal instead.
Vanilla Extract – A small amount of vanilla extract adds wonderful warmth and depth of flavor to the recipe.
Chocolate Chips – For this recipe, I used Enjoy Life semi-sweet chocolate chips, but milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips work equally well. For variation, try white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or peanut butter chips to create different flavor combinations.
Coconut Oil – Adding coconut oil when melting the chocolate prevents scorching and creates a smooth, pourable consistency. Avocado oil serves as an excellent alternative if you prefer to avoid vegetable oil.

Optional Additions:

Flaky Sea Salt – Sprinkle a light dusting of flaky sea salt on top for an elevated sweet and salty combination.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups – For an extra indulgent peanut butter chocolate experience, roughly chop two cups of peanut butter cups and fold them in after incorporating the rice crisp cereal.

Storage

To keep fresh, store in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap.