Name: Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M's and Chocolate Chips
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup peanut butter; 1 cup light corn syrup or honey; 1 cup sugar; 5-6 cups Rice Krispies cereal; ½ cup mini chocolate chips; ½ cup M&M’s (or more to taste)

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips

A batch of Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats topped with colorful M&M's and mini chocolate chips on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

December 7, 2024

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Looking for a quick, no-fuss dessert that will delight kids and adults alike? Look no further than Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips! This delightful treat combines the creamy richness of peanut butter, the satisfying crunch of Rice Krispies, and the colorful sweetness of M&M’s. The best part? It’s a no-bake recipe that comes together in just 15-20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute party preparations. Whether you’re whipping up snacks for a family gathering or surprising your kids with a sweet after-school treat, this recipe is a surefire hit. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats check all the boxes for a delicious dessert. Here’s why they deserve a spot on your go-to recipes list:

Key Benefits

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15-20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for when you’re short on time.
No-Bake Convenience: No oven? No problem! A stovetop is all you need.
Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults, it’s ideal for any occasion.

Suitable For

Kids’ Parties: Bright, colorful, and fun—perfect for little ones!
Holiday Celebrations: These treats add a festive touch to any table.
Busy Days: When time is tight, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

A great recipe starts with simple, reliable ingredients, and this one is no exception.

Core Ingredients

Peanut Butter: The creamy texture binds the treats together while adding a rich, nutty flavor. Crunchy peanut butter works too for added texture!
Light Corn Syrup or Honey: These sweeteners provide the sticky consistency needed to hold everything together. Honey gives a slightly healthier twist.
Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that deliciously gooey texture.
Rice Krispies Cereal: The base for these treats, offering the signature crunch we all love.
Mini Chocolate Chips & M&M’s: These toppings bring bursts of chocolatey goodness and a pop of color.

Substitutions and Tips

Healthier Options: Use honey instead of corn syrup, and swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter.
Extra Gooeyness: Add a handful of mini marshmallows to the peanut butter mixture.
Creative Add-Ins: Sprinkle in chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or dried fruit for a twist.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Having the right tools on hand makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Must-Have Tools

Saucepan: For melting the peanut butter mixture.
Mixing Bowl: A large one to combine all ingredients.
Spatula: Perfect for mixing and pressing the treats into shape.
Baking Sheet: To cool and set the treats.

Nice-to-Have Tools

Parchment Paper: Makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking.
Cookie Cutters: Create fun shapes for special occasions.
Candy Thermometer: Optional but helpful for precise heating.

How to Make Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

Ready to make magic in the kitchen? Follow these simple steps for perfect treats every time.

Step 1: Make the Peanut Butter Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of peanut butter, 1 cup of light corn syrup (or honey), and 1 cup of sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture just begins to bubble. Be careful not to overheat—it should be smooth and easy to pour.

Step 2: Combine with Cereal

Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over 5-6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal in a large mixing bowl. Use a spatula to gently stir until every piece of cereal is evenly coated.

Step 3: Shape the Treats

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop the mixture onto the sheet and use the spatula to press it into an even layer. Prefer clusters instead of bars? Simply form small mounds with your hands.

Step 4: Add Toppings

While the mixture is still warm, sprinkle ½ cup of mini chocolate chips and ½ cup (or more!) of M&M’s over the top. Press them lightly into the surface to ensure they stick.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the treats cool completely at room temperature until firm. Once set, cut them into squares or shapes. Now, dig in and enjoy your delightful creation!

Tips for Success

Making Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats is a breeze, but a few expert tips can help ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

Avoid Overheating the Mixture: The peanut butter, sugar, and corn syrup mixture should only heat until it starts to bubble. Overheating can make the mixture overly hard, resulting in treats that are difficult to bite into.
Press Lightly: When adding toppings like M&M’s and chocolate chips, gently press them into the surface of the treats. Pressing too hard can squash the mixture, affecting the final texture and appearance.
Work Quickly: The mixture sets rapidly as it cools. To shape the treats easily and evenly, be ready to spread or form them as soon as the cereal is coated.

With these tips in mind, you’re set up for sweet success!

How to Store Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

One of the best things about these treats is their versatility—not just in flavor but in storage as well! Here’s how to keep them fresh and tasty.

At Room Temperature

Store your Rice Krispie treats in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent the chocolate from melting or the treats from losing their crispiness.

In the Refrigerator

If you want them to last longer, the refrigerator is your best bet. Place the treats in a sealed container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. Bonus: chilled treats have a delightful firmness that some people prefer.

Freezing Tips

Need to prepare in advance? Freeze the treats! Layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some common questions to help you perfect this recipe:

Can I Use Other Cereal Instead of Rice Krispies?

Yes! Puffed wheat, cornflakes, or even Cheerios can work as excellent substitutes. Each option will give a slightly different texture and flavor, so feel free to experiment.

Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?

Absolutely. Swap out the corn syrup or honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. Additionally, use vegan chocolate chips and check that your M&M’s are plant-based to ensure the recipe stays vegan-friendly.

Why Are My Treats Too Hard?

This issue often occurs when the peanut butter mixture is overheated. Heating it just until it bubbles lightly is key. If it becomes too hot, the sugar can caramelize, leading to overly firm treats.

How Do I Add More Flavor?

Enhance the taste with a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt. You can also stir in extras like shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or even dried cranberries for added flavor and texture.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed making these treats, you might love trying these:

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake: For a rich and indulgent layered dessert.
Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes: A fruity alternative for cupcake lovers.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes: A tropical twist on classic cupcakes.
No-Bake Coconut Cream Balls: Another quick, no-bake option for sweet treats.
Creamy Nougat Bars: A chewy, nut-filled delight for candy enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips are everything you could want in a dessert—quick, fun, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, this no-bake recipe guarantees success with minimal effort. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, so you can make it your own.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cereals, toppings, or flavors. And when you’re done, share your creations with friends and family—they’ll be asking for seconds and the recipe! Let us know in the comments how your treats turned out, and happy snacking!