Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars are Cocoa Krispies cereal mixed with creamy peanut butter, marshmallows, and chocolate, drizzled with more peanut butter. Enjoy one as a snack, dessert, a little pick-me-up, or anytime you crave a chocolate peanut butter treat! If you also love the classic, check out my Soft Rice Krispie Bars, too!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide a rich, chocolate flavor to complement the Cocoa Krispies cereal. If you want more peanut butter flavor, you could use half peanut butter chips and half chocolate chips.
Peanut Butter: I used creamy peanut butter in the treats. However, for more crunch, you could use crunchy peanut butter instead.
Butter: The unsalted butter helps bind the ingredients together, gives the bars a rich, buttery flavor, and helps in the melting process.
Marshmallows: You will need one 16-ounce bag of mini marshmallows, or about 8 to 8 1/2 cups. If using a bag of regular-sized marshmallows (which is about 63 regular marshmallows), cut them into smaller pieces before adding them.
Cereal: I used Cocoa Krispies cereal, crispy rice cereal with added cocoa for the most chocolate flavor. Use your favorite brand of cocoa crisps.
Can I Use The Original Rice Krispies Cereal?
Yes, you could certainly use original Rice Krispies if you don’t have Cocoa Krispies. We tested the bars using regular Rice Krispies, and they were awesome, but we just wanted more chocolate. The bars will still be delicious with the combination of peanut butter, marshmallows, and chocolate, but without the added chocolate flavor from the cereal.
How To Store Rice Krispie Bars
After the Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie bars have cooled and set, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If layering the bars, place a sheet of parchment or wax paper between them to prevent sticking. They will remain fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Can I Freeze Chocolate Rice Krispie Bars?
Yes, you can freeze these Rice Krispie treats for longer storage. After allowing the treats to cool and set, cut them into individual-sized bars. Place the bars on a baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour or until firm. Once solid, transfer the bars to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup (182 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup (258 g) creamy peanut butter, divided
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 bag (16 ounces) mini marshmallows, about 8 cups
- 6 cups (246 g) Cocoa Krispies Cereal
Instructions
- Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Set aside.
- To a large pot over medium-low heat, add chocolate chips, ¾ cup peanut butter, and butter. Stir frequently until melted and smooth.
- Add marshmallows, stirring frequently until melted. Once melted, remove from heat.
- Spray a clean rubber spatula with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Using the spatula, fold in the Cocoa Krispies cereal. Stir until well-coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, pressing it into an even layer.
- Add the remaining ¼ cup peanut butter to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for about 20-30 seconds. Drizzle over the bars.
- Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator for at least 45 minutes before cutting and serving.
Video
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What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
I don't know why we didn't try this combination sooner. I loved this!
Elizabeth
I like these bars, but would have enjoyed a little bit more peanut butter flavor. But, you really can't go wrong with any sort of Rice Krispie treat!
Rachael
Chocolate Rice Krispies mixed into a peanut butter marshmallow mixture is absolutely delicious. It is one of the best combinations made into a supreme Rice Krispy bar!
Bella
These bars are delicious. The mix of chocolate, peanut butter, and crispy rice cereal works perfectly. They are sweet, chewy, and have the perfect amount of crunch.
Annabelle
Rice Krispies are always simple and delicious, and these are no exception! I loved the peanut butter drizzle as well!
Selena
Chocolate and peanut butter are a favorite combo of mine, and Rice Krispie bars are one of my very favorite treats. So, this is like heaven to me!!
Can you double this recipe?