Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Bars Recipe

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Rest Time 1 hr
Total Time 1 hr 25 mins
Cooking Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Courses: Desserts, Snacks
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 120  C
Servings: 12
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

These Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Bars are rich, chewy, and layered with smooth peanut butter and chocolate flavor. Made without baking, this easy dessert combines crispy rice cereal, creamy peanut butter, and a chocolate topping for a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for parties, holidays, or quick sweet cravings.

Ingredients
    For the Rice Krispie Base
  • 6 cups crispy rice cereal (malt-free)
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter
  • 300 g marshmallows
  • 0.5 cup creamy peanut butter
  • For the Peanut Butter Layer
  • 0.75 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • For the Chocolate Topping
  • 1.5 cups milk chocolate chips
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter
Instructions
    Prepare the Pan
  1. 1
    Line a square baking pan (20×20 cm or 8×8 inch) with parchment paper, leaving extra paper hanging over the sides. This will make it easier to lift the bars out once they are set.
  2. Melt the Marshmallow Base
  3. 2
    In a large saucepan over low heat, add the butter and let it melt gently. Add the marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted and smooth. Keep the heat low to avoid burning.
  4. Add Peanut Butter to the Base
  5. 3
    Once the marshmallow mixture is smooth, stir in the peanut butter until fully combined. The mixture should be glossy and creamy.
  6. Mix in the Rice Cereal
  7. 4
    Remove the pan from heat. Immediately add the crispy rice cereal and gently fold until every piece is evenly coated. Work quickly before the mixture cools and stiffens.
  8. Press the Base into the Pan
  9. 5
    Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Lightly press it down using a spatula or buttered hands. Do not press too hard, or the bars may become dense instead of chewy.
  10. Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer
  11. 6
    In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and peanut butter together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and mix in powdered sugar until a thick but spreadable consistency forms.
  12. Spread the Peanut Butter Layer
  13. 7
    Evenly spread the peanut butter mixture over the rice krispie base. Use an offset spatula for a smooth, even layer.
  14. Melt the Chocolate Topping
  15. 8
    In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate chips with vegetable oil using a double boiler or microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and shiny.
  16. Add the Chocolate Layer
  17. 9
    Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer and gently tilt the pan to spread evenly. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to remove air bubbles.
  18. Chill and Set
  19. 10
    Refrigerate the bars for at least 1–2 hours, or until fully set. Once firm, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and slice into squares.
Note

Always check labels for marshmallows, chocolate, and cereal.

For a less sweet version, reduce the chocolate topping slightly.

These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

For a freezer-friendly option, freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 1 month.

Keywords: no-bake dessert, easy recipe, kid-friendly, quick treat, party favorite
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/peanut-butter-cup-rice-krispie-bars-recipe/