A Quick Spoonful Recipes If you’re craving a nostalgic, crunchy treat with a decadent twist, look no further than Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats. This recipe takes the classic childhood Rice Krispie treats to a whole new level by incorporating creamy peanut butter and chunks of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, topped with a rich layer of chocolate. These cereal treats offer the perfect combination of crunch, sweetness, and peanut butter goodness, ideal for any occasion from parties to afternoon snacks.
In this article, we will break down the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, directions, nutrition facts, reviews, and more to guide you through making this mouth-watering dessert.
Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, gather these key ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount | Description |
| Salted Butter | 1 stick (1/2 cup) | Adds richness and flavor. |
| Mini Marshmallows | 2-10 oz bags | The base that binds the Rice Krispies cereal. |
| Creamy Peanut Butter | 1 cup | The star of the show, offering a smooth, nutty flavor. |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon | Adds warmth and depth, enhancing the sweetness. |
| Rice Krispies Cereal | 8 cups | The crunchy cereal that forms the core of the treats. |
| Milk Chocolate Chips | 11.5 oz bag | Melted to create a rich, indulgent topping. |
| Coconut Oil | 2 teaspoons | Ensures the chocolate melts smoothly and adds a glossy finish. |
| Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups | 8 cups (full-size) | Adds chunks of chocolate-peanut butter goodness to every bite. |
| Sea Salt Flakes | 1 teaspoon | For a balanced flavor contrast, adding a hint of savoriness. |
These simple ingredients come together to create a sweet, chewy, and crunchy dessert that’s hard to resist!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Line a 13×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring there’s enough overhang on the sides to easily lift the treats out after they’re set. Alternatively, spray the pan with non-stick baking spray.
- Melt the Base Ingredients:
- In a large, microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, mini marshmallows, and creamy peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until the mixture is smooth and gooey.
- Add Vanilla and Cereal:
- Once the base mixture is smooth, stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, gently mixing to ensure the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow-peanut butter mixture.
- Press the Mixture into the Pan:
- Lightly grease your hands or a rubber spatula with non-stick spray to press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Take care not to crush the cereal while spreading.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- In a separate, microwave-safe bowl, melt the milk chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval. Add the coconut oil to the melted chocolate for a glossy, smooth consistency.
- Top with Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups:
- Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the pressed Rice Krispies mixture.
- Sprinkle the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups on top, pressing them slightly into the chocolate.
- Finish with a pinch of sea salt flakes for extra flavor contrast.
- Set the Bars:
- Allow the bars to set at room temperature for about 2 hours, or speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes until firm.
- Cut and Serve:
- Once the bars are firm, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them from the pan. Cut them into squares and serve.
Detailed Directions for Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats
- Gather Ingredients
- Start by measuring and preparing all your ingredients. This will make the process smoother and faster.
- Prepare Your Workspace
- Line your 13×9 inch pan with parchment paper, ensuring you leave enough hanging over the sides for easy removal. Set aside.
- Melt Butter, Marshmallows, and Peanut Butter
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt butter, marshmallows, and peanut butter in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Mix with Cereal
- Stir in the vanilla extract to the melted mixture, then fold in the Rice Krispies cereal gently. Be careful not to crush the cereal.
- Spread in Pan
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan and press down evenly with a greased spatula or your hands.
- Melt Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each round. Once melted, stir in the coconut oil for a glossy texture.
- Top with Reese’s
- Pour the melted chocolate over the Rice Krispie mixture and sprinkle with chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Lightly press the pieces into the chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt flakes.
- Set and Serve
- Let the bars set at room temperature or refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
For those conscious about nutritional intake, here’s a breakdown per serving (1 treat):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 483 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 48g |
| Protein | 7g |
| Fat | 31g |
| Saturated Fat | 14g |
| Cholesterol | 21mg |
| Sodium | 489mg |
| Potassium | 264mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 28g |
| Vitamin A | 1483 IU |
| Vitamin C | 12mg |
| Calcium | 42mg |
| Iron | 6mg |
These treats are undeniably indulgent, but they offer a satisfying balance of flavor and texture, thanks to the combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and crunchy cereal.
Reviews
Customer Praise:
- “These treats take me right back to my childhood, but with a decadent twist! I love the added Reese’s cups—it’s like combining two of my favorite desserts.”
- “The recipe was easy to follow and came together quickly. The chocolate and peanut butter combo was rich and perfectly balanced!”
- “I made these for a party, and they disappeared within minutes! Everyone was asking for the recipe. Definitely a hit.”
Community Tips:
- For a crispier texture, some recommend adding an extra cup of Rice Krispies cereal.
- You can substitute dark chocolate chips for the milk chocolate to create a more intense flavor.
- For a fun variation, try using Cocoa Krispies cereal for an extra chocolatey twist!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different cereal?
Absolutely! You can experiment with cereals like Cocoa Krispies, Cheerios, or even Cornflakes for a unique twist.
Do I have to use coconut oil?
No, coconut oil is optional. You can substitute it with butter, though coconut oil helps give the chocolate a smooth, glossy finish.
How long do these treats last?
Stored in an airtight container, they can last up to 5 days at room temperature or 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze these treats?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or give them a quick zap in the microwave to soften the chocolate.
Can I make them vegan or gluten-free?
You can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use vegan marshmallows. For a gluten-free option, make sure your Rice Krispies cereal is gluten-free (some brands contain malt syrup).
Conclusion
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats are the perfect combination of nostalgia and indulgence. With the classic crunch of Rice Krispies cereal, creamy peanut butter, chunks of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and a rich chocolate topping, these treats are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, a school event, or just as a fun snack, they’re bound to become a household favorite.
Their simplicity and versatility also make them a great recipe for bakers of all skill levels. So, grab your ingredients and get started on creating these irresistible treats today!
