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

Introduction

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are one of those desserts that never go out of style. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a bake sale, or just because you need a little something sweet, they’re always a hit. I first made these treats on a whim when I had a craving for something both crunchy and sweet, but I wanted to take my usual Rice Krispie treats up a notch. Adding peanut butter to the mix was an instant game changer. The peanut butter gives them a rich, nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the sugar and corn syrup, while the M&M’s and mini chocolate chips add a playful burst of color and a little extra chocolatey indulgence.

Every time I make these, the family absolutely loves them. The kids especially adore the M&M’s—those little colorful candies practically make the treat irresistible. They’re quick and easy to prepare, but the results are always impressive. In fact, this recipe has quickly become one of my go-to desserts whenever I need something that’s both satisfying and easy to whip up. Whether you’re serving them at a party, taking them to a picnic, or simply treating yourself, these Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are sure to become a family favorite, just as they are in mine.

Ingredients

For these delicious Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1 cup light corn syrup or honey
• 1 cup sugar
• 5-6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup M&M’s (or more, to taste)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats:

1. Heat the peanut butter mixture:
   In a medium saucepan, combine the peanut butter, light corn syrup (or honey), and sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture just starts to bubble. Once it begins to bubble, remove the saucepan from the heat. This should only take a few minutes, so keep an eye on it to avoid over-heating.
2. Mix with Rice Krispies:
   Pour the peanut butter mixture over the Rice Krispies cereal in a large mixing bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir the mixture, making sure all the cereal is evenly coated with the peanut butter syrup. This step is crucial, so take your time to ensure everything is coated.
3. Shape the treats:
   Scoop the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. You can either press the mixture into clusters or shape it into bars, depending on your preference. You can also use your hands (coated with a little bit of butter or non-stick spray) to help press it into place.
4. Add chocolate chips and M&M’s:
   Sprinkle the mini chocolate chips and M&M’s over the top of the treats. Lightly press them into the surface of the Rice Krispie mixture to ensure they stick.
5. Cool and enjoy:
   Let the treats cool completely until firm. Once they’re set, cut them into squares or enjoy them as clusters. Either way, they’re delicious!

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings (based on cutting the treat into 12 squares). Here’s the estimated nutritional information for one serving:

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 70mg
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 23g
• Protein: 5g
• Vitamin A: 0%
• Vitamin C: 0%
• Calcium: 0%
• Iron: 4%

Please note, these values can vary depending on the exact brands and proportions of ingredients used.

Preparation Time

• Active preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooling time: 30-60 minutes (depending on room temperature or refrigeration)

How to Serve

These Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:

• As a snack: Grab one as a quick, delicious snack during the day.
• For dessert: Serve them as a sweet treat after dinner for both kids and adults alike.
• At parties or gatherings: They’re great for parties, picnics, or any casual event where you need a crowd-pleaser.
• As a lunchbox treat: Pack these in lunchboxes for a fun, homemade addition to kids’ meals.
• For breakfast on the go: If you’re in a hurry, these treats can be a great, energy-packed breakfast option.

Additional Tips

1. Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture: If you prefer a bit more crunch, try using crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth. This will add a fun texture to your treats.
2. Don’t overheat the syrup mixture: Be careful not to overheat the peanut butter and syrup mixture, as it can become too thick to properly coat the cereal. Just bring it to a bubble and then remove it from the heat.
3. Use parchment paper for easy cleanup: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to make transferring the treats out of the pan and cutting them much easier.
4. Let the treats cool completely: While it’s tempting to dig in right away, letting the treats cool fully will help them set and hold their shape better.
5. Store them properly: If you’re making a big batch, store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week.

Recipe Variations

• Add marshmallows: For a more traditional Rice Krispie treat, you can melt in 1-2 cups of marshmallows along with the peanut butter and syrup mixture.
• Use dark chocolate chips: If you prefer a richer, less sweet treat, use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate or mini chocolate chips.
• Add other mix-ins: Feel free to throw in other ingredients, such as mini pretzels, chopped nuts (like peanuts or almonds), or dried fruit for added variety.
• Make them healthier: Substitute the corn syrup with maple syrup or agave nectar, and use a natural peanut butter with no added sugar to reduce the overall sweetness and make them a bit healthier.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a glass of milk: These treats are perfect when paired with a tall glass of cold milk, which complements the peanut butter and chocolate flavors.
• With a scoop of ice cream: Top one of these Rice Krispie treats with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
• With a cup of coffee or tea: They’re perfect as an afternoon snack alongside your favorite hot beverage.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These treats can be frozen for up to 3 months. Once they are fully cooled, wrap them individually in wax paper or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Storage: Store the Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you live in a humid environment, it’s best to refrigerate them to prevent them from becoming too soft.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use honey instead of corn syrup?
   Yes, honey is a great substitute for corn syrup and adds a subtle, natural sweetness.
2. Can I make these with gluten-free Rice Krispies?
   Absolutely! Look for gluten-free Rice Krispies, and this recipe will work perfectly.
3. How can I make these less sweet?
   Use less sugar or substitute with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit, and you can adjust the sweetness level to your preference.
4. Can I use a different nut butter?
   Yes, almond butter or cashew butter can be used as an alternative to peanut butter for a different flavor profile.
5. How do I store leftover treats?
   Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for longer storage.
6. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, these treats can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored at room temperature.
7. Can I make these without chocolate chips?
   Yes, if you prefer, you can leave out the chocolate chips and M&M’s, or substitute with other mix-ins like dried fruit or nuts.
8. Can I add coconut to these treats?
   Yes, shredded coconut would be a great addition to these treats, adding a bit of tropical flavor.
9. How long do these need to cool?
   These typically need about 30-60 minutes to cool and firm up properly, depending on room temperature.
10. Can I cut them into different shapes?
    Absolutely! You can shape them into squares, rectangles, or even fun shapes using cookie cutters.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips are a simple yet indulgent dessert that’s perfect for almost any occasion. The sweet and savory combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and crispy cereal creates a treat that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re making them for a family snack, a party, or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, these treats are sure to be a hit. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a delightful dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Enjoy the process, and watch your loved ones smile with every delicious bite!

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