If you’re craving a nostalgic treat with a delightful twist, the Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips Recipe is about to become your new go-to dessert. This no-bake delight combines the classic crispy, chewy texture of Rice Krispies with the rich creaminess of peanut butter, plus pops of colorful mini M&M’s and melty chocolate chips that make every bite a party. Perfect for a quick snack, an after-school treat, or even a fun dessert for gatherings, these bars are bursting with flavor and fun, proving that simple ingredients can create seriously irresistible results.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple and tasty ingredients is the first step to creating these scrumptious bars. Each component plays an essential role in crafting the perfect harmony of flavors and crunchy goodness that will make you smile from the first bite to the last crumb.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds a creamy richness that melts beautifully with the peanut butter.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Brings a smooth, nutty depth that’s utterly addictive.
- 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows: The magical binder that gives a soft, chewy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness with a warm, comforting aroma.
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal: Provides that signature light and crispy crunch.
- 3/4 cup mini M&M’s: Bursts of colorful chocolatey fun throughout the treat.
- 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips: Melty pockets of chocolate that mingle perfectly with peanut butter.
How to Make Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips Recipe
Step 1: Melt Butter and Peanut Butter
Start by heating the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter together over medium-low heat. Stir gently until both are melted and blended into one smooth, luscious mixture. This smooth base is what makes the bars creamy and helps marry all the flavors seamlessly.
Step 2: Add Mini Marshmallows
Next, toss in the mini marshmallows and keep stirring without rushing. The marshmallows will slowly melt and combine with the buttery peanut butter mixture, creating that perfect gooey texture which holds everything together beautifully.
Step 3: Stir in Vanilla Extract
Once the marshmallows are completely melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This simple addition adds a delicate sweet fragrance that elevates every bite.
Step 4: Fold in Rice Krispies Cereal
Gently fold the Rice Krispies into your warm mixture, making sure every crunchy piece gets coated evenly. This step is key to achieving the classic chewy yet crispy texture these treats are known for.
Step 5: Add M&M’s and Chocolate Chips
After letting the mixture cool for 2 to 3 minutes, carefully fold in most of the mini M&M’s and chocolate chips, reserving a handful of each to sprinkle on top. This layering of candies ensures every bite has delightful bursts of chocolate and color.
Step 6: Press into Baking Dish and Top
Press the sticky mixture firmly into a greased 9×13-inch pan using a spatula or wax paper for even thickness. While the treats are still slightly warm, sprinkle the reserved mini M&M’s and chocolate chips on top, then gently press them in so they stick and look inviting.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow your Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips Recipe bars to cool completely at room temperature for about an hour before slicing into squares. For extra clean cuts, chilling in the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes works like a charm.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a few extra mini M&M’s or chocolate chips on top right before serving adds eye-catching color and even more texture. You might also dust a little powdered sugar for a festive touch that makes these treats pop on your dessert table.
Side Dishes
These treats pair fabulously with a cold glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Their rich peanut butter flavor balances out cooler or creamier sides, making snack or dessert time a total delight.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, try cutting the bars into bite-sized squares and serving them on colorful platters alongside fresh fruit. Wrapping individual bars in parchment paper or clear cellophane tied with a ribbon makes a charming homemade gift or lunchbox addition as well.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extras in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to 4 days. This makes them perfect for preparing ahead of time or enjoying throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze these bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months and thaw quickly at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge.
Reheating
If you enjoy your treats a little warm, pop them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or let thawed bars sit for a few minutes. This warms the chocolate chips and peanut butter just enough to bring back their gooey magic.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit more texture and nuttiness to the bars, making them even more interesting. Just keep in mind the consistency might be slightly different but still delicious.
Are these treats gluten-free?
The Rice Krispies cereal may contain malt flavoring derived from barley, which is not gluten-free. You can substitute with a gluten-free crispy rice cereal to keep the recipe gluten-free while enjoying the same great flavors.
Can I substitute regular-sized M&M’s and chocolate chips?
Mini M&M’s and chocolate chips are preferred for even distribution and better texture, but you can use regular-sized pieces if that’s all you have. Just chop the larger M&M’s into smaller bits if possible for the best results.
Is this recipe safe for kids to help with?
Yes! Children will love stirring the marshmallows and helping press the mixture into the pan. Just be sure to supervise the melting steps on the stove for safety.
How do I get the cleanest cuts when slicing?
Chilling the bars in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes before slicing prevents sticking and helps you slice perfectly clean squares that look as good as they taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips Recipe that makes you want to keep coming back for more. It’s easy to make, wonderfully nostalgic, and bursting with joyful colors and textures. So go ahead and whip up a batch today—these bars are sure to bring smiles, satisfy sweet cravings, and become a beloved classic in your dessert rotation!
Print
Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour cooling)
- Yield: 16 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips are a deliciously gooey and crunchy no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Combining creamy peanut butter, melted marshmallows, and crispy Rice Krispies, then studded with colorful mini M&M’s and chocolate chips, these treats offer a perfect balance of sweetness and texture that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Toppings
- 3/4 cup mini M&M’s
- 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Peanut Butter: In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Marshmallows: Add the mini marshmallows to the melted butter and peanut butter mixture, stirring continuously to ensure the marshmallows melt completely and blend smoothly with the mixture.
- Incorporate Vanilla Extract: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to infuse flavor.
- Fold in Rice Krispies: Gently fold the Rice Krispies cereal into the marshmallow mixture until every cereal flake is evenly coated.
- Mix in M&M’s and Chocolate Chips: Let the mixture cool for 2–3 minutes, then quickly fold in most of the mini M&M’s and mini chocolate chips, keeping a small handful of each aside for topping.
- Press into Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and press the mixture firmly into the pan with a spatula or wax paper to create an even layer.
- Add Toppings: While the treats are still slightly warm, sprinkle the reserved mini M&M’s and chocolate chips on top and gently press them into the surface.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the treats to cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour until firm before slicing into squares and serving.
Notes
- For cleaner, neater cuts, chill the treats in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes before slicing.
- Using parchment paper to line the baking dish helps with easy removal and cleanup.
- This recipe is perfect for a quick, no-bake dessert that kids and adults will love.
