Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups are a deliciously simple treat that combines the crunch of Rice Krispies with the classic flavors of chocolate and peanut butter. These no-bake treats are perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and can be made in under 15 minutes of prep time!
The base is made by mixing Rice Krispies with a warm blend of chunky peanut butter and honey, which adds both sweetness and a chewy texture to balance the crunch. Each cup is then topped with a layer of smooth, melted chocolate, which hardens in the refrigerator to create a crisp chocolate shell.
After chilling, these cups are ready to enjoy, and the paper liners make them easy to serve and store. They’re perfect as a snack, a quick dessert, or a treat to pack for on-the-go. This recipe is easily adaptable, too—swap in vegan chocolate chips or almond butter for a plant-based twist, or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a touch of extra flavor!
Why You’ll Love It:
Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and no baking required!
Kid-Friendly: Both making and eating these cups are fun for kids.
Plant-Based Option: Simply swap the honey and chocolate for vegan alternatives for a plant-based version.
Perfect for Sharing: Great for gatherings, potlucks, or as a delicious homemade gift.
Key Ingredients:
Rice Krispies Cereal: The crispy texture adds the perfect crunch to these cups. You can also use brown rice crisps for a whole-grain option.
Chunky Peanut Butter: Adds a wonderful texture with the small peanut pieces. Creamy peanut butter works too if you prefer a smoother texture.
Honey: Acts as a natural sweetener and binder, but maple syrup or agave can be used if you prefer a plant-based option.
Chocolate Chips: Choose semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. Vegan chocolate chips work beautifully for a dairy-free version.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the peanut butter flavor and balances the sweetness.
Directions:
Preparation:
Line the Muffin Tin: Line a muffin tin with paper or silicone liners for easy removal of the cups once they’re set.
Peanut Butter Mixture:
Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the peanut butter, honey, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
Remove from Heat: Once smooth, take the saucepan off the heat.
Mixing:
Add Rice Krispies: Pour the Rice Krispies cereal into the peanut butter mixture, folding it in until the cereal is evenly coated.
Forming Cups:
Spoon into Muffin Tin: Spoon the mixture evenly into the lined muffin cups, pressing gently to form the base layer in each cup.
Melting Chocolate:
Melt Chocolate Chips: In a separate saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, stirring until the chocolate is smooth and glossy.
Assembly:
Top with Chocolate: Spoon the melted chocolate over the peanut butter and cereal layer in each cup, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
Chilling:
Refrigerate: Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is fully set.
Serving:
Enjoy: Once set, remove the cups from the refrigerator, peel away the liners, and enjoy your homemade peanut butter chocolate treats!
Serving Suggestions:
Garnish: Sprinkle a few crushed peanuts, flaky sea salt, or a dusting of cocoa powder on top of the chocolate before it sets for an extra touch.
Serve Cold: These treats are best served chilled for a firmer texture and clean layers.
Perfect for Gifting: Arrange in a gift box or cellophane bag with a ribbon for a lovely homemade gift.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing: For longer storage, place the cups in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.
Variations:
Almond Butter Cups: Swap peanut butter for almond butter for a different flavor profile.
Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips for a more intense, less sweet flavor.
Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter or cookie butter for a nut-free alternative.
Add Coconut: Stir in ½ cup of shredded coconut to the peanut butter and Rice Krispies mixture for a tropical twist.
Salted Caramel Drizzle: Once the cups are set, drizzle salted caramel sauce over the top for an indulgent upgrade.
Conclusion:
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups are a deliciously easy treat that combines the crunch of Rice Krispies, the creamy richness of peanut butter, and the smooth sweetness of chocolate. Whether for a family treat or a special gift, they’re sure to bring smiles with every bite! Enjoy your no-bake creation!
