If you are searching for a snack that combines nostalgic cereal treats with the indulgent flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, you are in for a real delight with this Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Recipe. Every bite offers that classic crunch of Rice Krispies perfectly coated in a creamy blend of peanut butter and marshmallows, topped with a smooth layer of rich chocolate. It’s a crowd-pleaser that is as simple to make as it is utterly delicious, bringing together comfort and decadence in one adorable little cup.

The image shows three small round treats stacked on a white plate. Each treat has two layers: the bottom layer is light brown and made of a crispy, puffed rice texture, while the top layer is smooth, dark chocolate with a wavy pattern on the surface. The treats look shiny and the white plate sits on a white marbled surface. In the background, two more treats are slightly out of focus. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward pantry essentials, but each plays a vital role in bringing together texture, taste, and a colorful contrast that makes this recipe shine. From crispy cereal to luscious chocolate, every component works in harmony to create a snack you’ll keep coming back to.

3 cups Rice Krispies cereal: The perfect crispy base that gives a light, airy crunch to the cups.
1 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds rich, nutty flavor and a creamy texture that binds the cereal.
1/2 cup unsalted butter: Helps melt the marshmallows smoothly and balances sweetness with buttery richness.
1 cup mini marshmallows: The glue that holds everything together while adding gooey sweetness.
1 cup chocolate chips: For that luscious melted chocolate topping that adds an irresistible finish.
1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional): A subtle boost that enhances the sweetness and depth of flavor.
Pinch of sea salt (optional): A little seasoning that perfectly offsets the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate.

How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Base

Start by gently melting the unsalted butter and mini marshmallows in a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly to create a glossy, smooth mixture without burning, which will be the chewy foundation of your cups.

Step 2: Add Peanut Butter

Once your marshmallow mixture is smooth, stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract if using. Keep stirring until everything is fully combined and luxuriously creamy—this step is where the magic of the peanut butter flavor truly starts to shine.

Step 3: Mix with Cereal

Pour your Rice Krispies cereal into a large bowl and gently fold in the peanut butter mixture. Be careful to coat all the crunchy bits evenly without crushing them, since the texture contrast is key for a fantastic bite.

Step 4: Shape the Cups

Line a muffin tin with paper liners and scoop the mixture evenly into each slot. Press the mixture flat and compact it gently, ensuring that every cup holds its shape and each bite is uniformly delicious.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Layer

Melt the chocolate chips in 20-second intervals in the microwave, stirring in-between to avoid overheating. Spoon the melted chocolate over each cup, spreading it to cover the surface completely. This lush chocolate topping adds a rich finish that’s hard to resist. A sprinkle of sea salt over the top is optional but highly recommended for that amazing salty-sweet contrast.

Step 6: Set & Serve

Let the cups cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes or speed things up by refrigerating them until the chocolate hardens. Once set, peel away the paper liners and serve these tasty treats at your next gathering or as an anytime snack that’s sure to brighten your day.

How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Recipe

The image shows two peanut butter and rice puff treats stacked on a white surface with a white marbled texture background. The bottom treat is whole, round, and covered with a thick, smooth layer of dark chocolate on top, with a bumpy texture of rice puffs mixed with peanut butter forming the base. The top treat is the same but with a bite taken from it, exposing the golden peanut butter and crispy rice puff mixture underneath the dark chocolate layer. The lighting highlights the shiny surface of the chocolate and the crunchy texture of the rice puff mix. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While these cups are fantastic as they are, adding crushed peanuts or a drizzle of white chocolate on top can elevate the presentation and add a little extra texture and flair. Even a sprinkle of colorful sprinkles can make them festive and fun, especially for special occasions.

Side Dishes

Serve your Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee or tea to balance the rich sweetness. For parties, a fruit platter with fresh berries can complement the dense, crunchy treats beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or potluck, arrange these cups on a tiered cake stand for a stunning display. Alternatively, place them in small decorative paper bags or boxes tied with ribbon for delightful homemade gifts that anyone would be thrilled to receive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store these delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep them away from heat and humidity to maintain that perfect crunch and chocolate coating.

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch in advance, these cups freeze wonderfully. Just wrap each cup individually in plastic wrap and place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to a month, so you’ll always have a treat on hand.

Reheating

To enjoy them after freezing, let the cups thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can melt the chocolate and make the texture less appealing. Patience rewards you with a snack that tastes freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add an extra bit of texture that some people love. Just be sure to mix it well with the marshmallow base for consistent coating.

Is it necessary to use paper liners?

While not mandatory, paper liners make it much easier to remove the cups and help with portion control. They also keep the muffin tin clean, which is a bonus!

Can I substitute mini marshmallows with regular sized ones?

Yes, but you may need to adjust melting time slightly as regular marshmallows take a bit longer to melt evenly.

What type of chocolate works best for the topping?

Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips work perfectly for balancing the sweetness of peanut butter. Dark chocolate can work too if you prefer a less sweet finish.

Can I make these cups vegan?

For a vegan version, you’d want to use dairy-free butter, vegan marshmallows, and vegan chocolate chips. The recipe remains the same otherwise.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Recipe is one of those treats that never fails to bring smiles and satisfy sweet cravings in the best possible way. It’s quick to make, uses simple ingredients, and delivers a fantastically fun experience from mixing to munching. So grab your ingredients, dive in, and enjoy every scrumptious bite!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 67 reviews

Author: Emma
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 20 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious and easy-to-make Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups combining the classic crunch of Rice Krispies with creamy peanut butter, gooey marshmallows, and a rich chocolate topping. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert that sets quickly and requires no baking.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Base:

3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup mini marshmallows

For the Topping:

1 cup chocolate chips
1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of sea salt (optional)

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Instructions

Melt the Base: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and mini marshmallows together while stirring consistently until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Add Peanut Butter: Stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract (if using) until the mixture is fully combined and creamy.
Mix with Cereal: Pour the Rice Krispies cereal into a large mixing bowl and gently fold in the peanut butter mixture until all the cereal is evenly coated.
Shape the Cups: Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Spoon the cereal mixture evenly into each cup and gently press down to create a flat surface.
Add Chocolate Layer: Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth. Spoon the melted chocolate over each Rice Krispie cup and spread evenly. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top if desired.
Set & Serve: Allow the cups to cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes or refrigerate to set faster. Once firm, remove the paper liners and serve.

Notes

For quicker setting, place the cups in the refrigerator.
Use creamy peanut butter for easier mixing and better texture.
Adding vanilla extract enhances the flavor but is optional.
You can substitute mini marshmallows with regular marshmallows chopped into smaller pieces if mini are unavailable.
Sprinkling sea salt on top balances the sweetness and adds a gourmet touch.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.