Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s are a fun and irresistible twist on the classic Rice Krispie treat. Combining the familiar crunch of Rice Krispies with creamy peanut butter and the colorful pop of M&M’s, these treats are a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and crispy textures. With just a few simple ingredients, this easy-to-make dessert is ideal for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, packing a snack, or simply craving something indulgent. The peanut butter adds a rich, nutty flavor to the chewy Rice Krispies, while the M&M’s bring an element of color and a burst of sweetness with every bite. Not only do these treats taste amazing, but their vibrant colors make them fun to look at, too! Whether you’re serving them at a kids’ birthday party or as an after-school snack, these Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Quick to prepare, no-bake, and customizable, this treat will become your new favorite go-to dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy to Make

These treats come together in less than 15 minutes with minimal ingredients and no baking required. It’s a simple, no-fuss recipe perfect for busy days or last-minute treats.

2. Perfect for Peanut Butter Lovers

The peanut butter adds a rich, creamy texture and flavor that perfectly complements the crunch of the Rice Krispies, making this a must-try for anyone who loves peanut butter.

3. Colorful and Fun

The addition of M&M’s gives these treats a fun, vibrant look that’s sure to catch everyone’s eye. They’re perfect for kids’ parties, bake sales, or festive occasions.

4. Customizable to Your Taste

Feel free to swap out the M&M’s for other candies or add-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or marshmallows. The options are endless!

5. No-Bake Treat

These Rice Krispie treats don’t require any baking, so you can avoid turning on the oven. It’s a great recipe for hot summer days or when you just don’t want to deal with heating up your kitchen.

Ingredients

• Rice Krispies cereal
• Peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
• Unsalted butter
• Mini marshmallows
• M&M’s (or any candy of your choice)
• Vanilla extract (optional)
• Pinch of salt (optional)

Variations

1. Chocolate Peanut Butter Version

Add a layer of melted chocolate on top of the Rice Krispie treats or stir some chocolate chips into the peanut butter mixture for a chocolatey twist.

2. Nuts and Seeds

For added crunch, mix in chopped peanuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds into the treat mixture. You can even sprinkle some on top for decoration.

3. Marshmallow-Only Treats

For a softer, more marshmallow-heavy treat, increase the amount of mini marshmallows, which will create a chewier, more gooey texture.

4. Dried Fruit Addition

Add dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots to the mixture for a tangy-sweet contrast to the rich peanut butter.

5. Vegan or Dairy-Free

Use dairy-free butter and vegan marshmallows for a vegan version of these treats while still keeping the delicious peanut butter flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the treats from sticking.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Peanut Butter

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the peanut butter and stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Add the Marshmallows

Add the mini marshmallows to the saucepan with the peanut butter mixture. Stir constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.

Step 4: Combine with Rice Krispies

Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the Rice Krispies cereal. Mix until the cereal is evenly coated with the peanut butter-marshmallow mixture.

Step 5: Add the M&M’s

Gently fold in the M&M’s, saving a few to sprinkle on top for decoration, if desired.

Step 6: Press into the Pan

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and gently press it into an even layer. Be careful not to press too hard, as you want the treats to remain soft and chewy.

Step 7: Let Set

Allow the treats to cool and set for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. Once fully set, cut into squares or bars.

Step 8: Serve

Serve and enjoy! Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overheat the Mixture: When melting the peanut butter and marshmallows, keep the heat low to avoid burning or overcooking the mixture.
• Use Fresh Marshmallows: Using fresh marshmallows will ensure the treats have a light and chewy texture.
• Add More Peanut Butter for a Richer Flavor: If you love peanut butter, feel free to add an extra spoonful to the mixture for a richer taste.
• Customize the Toppings: After pressing the mixture into the pan, top with additional M&M’s or chocolate chips for extra sweetness and decoration.
• Keep the Pressing Light: When pressing the mixture into the pan, press just enough to compact the treats. Over-pressing may make them dense.

How to Serve

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s are perfect on their own as a sweet snack, but they’re also great for sharing at parties, family gatherings, or bake sales. Serve them at room temperature for the best texture. For a fun twist, you can pair them with a glass of milk or serve them alongside ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Rice Krispie treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. They’ll stay fresh and delicious as long as they’re kept sealed.

Freezing

If you want to make these treats in advance, they freeze well. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months in the freezer. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Reheating

If you prefer to serve them warm, microwave a single serving for about 10-15 seconds for a gooey, melty treat.

FAQs

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes! Crunchy peanut butter will add some extra texture to the treats, but creamy peanut butter works just as well if you prefer a smoother consistency.

2. Can I make this recipe without M&M’s?

Absolutely! You can substitute M&M’s with other candies like chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or even add in some dried fruit or marshmallows.

3. Can I add more peanut butter?

If you love peanut butter, feel free to add extra peanut butter to the mixture for a stronger peanut flavor. Just make sure not to overpower the marshmallows and Rice Krispies.

4. How do I make the treats less sticky?

Make sure to grease your hands or use a spatula to press the mixture into the pan, as the treats can be a little sticky. You can also refrigerate the treats for a few minutes after setting to help firm them up.

5. Can I make these with other cereals?

Yes! You can substitute Rice Krispies with other cereals, such as Cornflakes or Special K, for a different texture.

6. Can I make a bigger batch?

Yes, you can double the recipe and use a larger baking dish. Just be sure to adjust the pressing and cooling times accordingly.

7. Can I freeze these treats?

Yes! These treats freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.

8. How can I make these vegan?

To make these treats vegan, substitute the butter with plant-based butter and use vegan marshmallows.

9. Can I add chocolate to the recipe?

Yes! You can stir in some melted chocolate or add chocolate chips to the mixture for an extra chocolaty flavor.

10. How long do these treats last?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these treats will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s are the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy. Easy to make, no-bake, and customizable, these treats are ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a party, as an after-school snack, or just because, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. With their irresistible combination of peanut butter, Rice Krispies, and colorful M&M’s, these treats are a fun and delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

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