Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines three fan-favorite ingredients: peanut butter, chocolate, and Rice Krispies cereal. The peanut butter adds richness, while the chocolate coating makes each bite irresistible. The Rice Krispies provide the perfect crunch, and the sweet and salty flavor balance makes these cups impossible to resist. Plus, they’re no-bake and come together in just minutes!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup honey or corn syrup
• 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup peanut butter chips (optional)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Mixture:

1. Melt the peanut butter and honey: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt together the creamy peanut butter and honey (or corn syrup), stirring frequently until smooth and well combined.
2. Add vanilla and salt: Once the peanut butter and honey mixture is melted, stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt for added flavor.
3. Mix in the Rice Krispies: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until fully coated with the peanut butter mixture. Be gentle when mixing to avoid crushing the cereal.
4. Press into molds: Lightly grease a muffin tin or use cupcake liners. Spoon the Rice Krispies mixture into each muffin cup, pressing down gently with the back of a spoon to pack it in evenly. Set the cups aside to cool and firm up, about 10-15 minutes at room temperature.

Prepare the Chocolate Topping:

1. Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and peanut butter chips (if using). Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
2. Top the Rice Krispie cups: Spoon the melted chocolate over each Rice Krispie cup, spreading it evenly with a spoon or offset spatula.
3. Chill the cups: Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set and the cups to firm up.

Serve:

1. Remove from the tin: Once the chocolate has hardened, remove the cups from the muffin tin or peel away the cupcake liners.
2. Serve: Enjoy these sweet, crunchy, and indulgent treats right away, or store them for later!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 cups
• Total time: 1 hour (including chilling time)

Variations

• Add nuts: For extra crunch and flavor, you can mix in chopped peanuts or any other nuts of your choice into the Rice Krispies mixture.
• Add dried fruit: Dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots can be added for a sweet twist and extra texture.
• Use milk or dark chocolate: If you prefer, you can substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate chips.
• Vegan option: Use maple syrup instead of honey, and ensure the chocolate and peanut butter chips are dairy-free to make these treats vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: You can freeze these cups for up to 3 months. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze and then transfer to an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes! Crunchy peanut butter will give the Rice Krispies cups some extra texture. Feel free to swap it for creamy if you prefer.

Can I use a different type of cereal?

While Rice Krispies are traditional, you can use any puffed rice or puffed wheat cereal as a substitute for a different texture.

Do I need to refrigerate the cups?

It’s best to refrigerate the cups to allow the chocolate to set and help the cups firm up. Afterward, they can be stored at room temperature.

Can I make these without peanut butter chips?

Yes, you can skip the peanut butter chips. The chocolate coating will still be delicious without them, or you can use additional semi-sweet chocolate chips if you prefer a thicker chocolate layer.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, Rice Krispies are now available in gluten-free versions. Be sure to check the label if you’re making these for someone with a gluten sensitivity.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups are the perfect combination of rich peanut butter, crispy cereal, and sweet chocolate. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, an indulgent treat, or something to share at a party, these cups will surely be a hit. Simple to make and incredibly satisfying, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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