If you have a sweet tooth that craves both nostalgia and a fun twist, you are going to fall head over heels for this Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips Recipe. Imagine the classic crispy, marshmallowy base enhanced with the rich creaminess of peanut butter, then studded with colorful M&M’s and melty mini chocolate chips that deliver bursts of delight in every bite. It’s a perfect treat to make quickly, share easily, and savor endlessly, whether for a quick snack or a festive party dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is simple, but every single one plays its part in creating the perfect balance of texture, sweetness, and flavor. From the nutty depth of peanut butter to the delightful crunch of M&M’s, each component elevates these treats to a whole new level.
- Peanut Butter (1 cup): Provides rich creaminess and a salty counterpoint to the sweet elements.
- Light Corn Syrup or Honey (1 cup): Acts as a sticky, glossy binder that holds the treats together without overpowering the flavor.
- Sugar (1 cup): Adds extra sweetness and helps give the treats a firm texture.
- Rice Krispies Cereal (5-6 cups): The star crispy cereal giving that classic airy crunch we all love.
- Mini Chocolate Chips (1/2 cup): Small bursts of gooey chocolate melted into the clusters for a chewy, chocolatey surprise.
- M&M’s (1/2 cup or more): Colorful candies that add fun, crunch, and vibrant pops of color to the mix.
How to Make Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Peanut Butter Mixture
Start by combining your peanut butter, light corn syrup or honey, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continually until the mixture just begins to bubble — this ensures everything is melted and combined evenly without burning. Once bubbling starts, take it off the heat quickly to keep that silky texture.
Step 2: Coat the Rice Krispies
Immediately pour your warm peanut butter mixture over the big bowl of Rice Krispies cereal. Stir them gently but thoroughly until every crispy piece is coated in that luscious, sticky sweetness, ensuring each treat yields that perfect chewy yet crunchy bite.
Step 3: Shape Your Treats
Using a spoon or scoop, drop the coated cereal onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Press them into clusters or press down with your hands to form squares or bars, whatever you fancy. Don’t worry about perfect shapes – the slightly uneven look is part of the charm!
Step 4: Add the Chocolate and M&M’s
Sprinkle mini chocolate chips and your vibrant M&M’s right on top, pressing them gently into the surface so they stick as the treats cool. This step adds that irresistible visual appeal and delivers a surprise in every bite.
Step 5: Let Them Set
Give your creations a good 30 minutes to cool and firm up at room temperature. Once set, they are ready to be devoured, packed up for lunchboxes, or placed on your dessert platter!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips Recipe
Garnishes
While these treats are delightful on their own, feel free to sprinkle extra mini chocolate chips, a few more M&M’s, or even a drizzle of melted peanut butter on top just before serving for a touch of flair and added indulgence.
Side Dishes
Pair these sweet bites with a cold glass of milk to balance the richness or alongside a fresh fruit salad for a light but satisfying contrast. They also make a fantastic companion for a cup of coffee or hot chocolate during cozy afternoons.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips Recipe into a colorful dessert platter by stacking them in bowls, wrapping individual squares in parchment paper tied with twine for gifts, or even cutting them into festive shapes using cookie cutters for parties and celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your treats fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft, chewy, and just as tasty for up to 4 days, making them easy to enjoy well after making them.
Freezing
If you want to make a batch ahead of time, these treats freeze beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a zip-top freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature for about an hour.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t typically necessary since these treats are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you prefer a softer, warmer bite, microwave a piece for about 10 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, or they might get too sticky!
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful extra texture to your Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips Recipe. Just be sure to stir well so it blends nicely with the syrup and sugar.
What if I don’t have corn syrup? Can I only use honey?
Yes, honey is a fantastic natural alternative to light corn syrup. It will add a subtle floral sweetness that complements the peanut butter nicely. Just be mindful of the sweetness level as honey can be a bit richer.
Are there any good substitutions for M&M’s?
If you want to switch things up, mini Reese’s Pieces, chopped peanuts, or colorful sprinkles work great as well. The key is keeping that fun, crunchy burst of color and texture.
How do I get my treats to hold together better?
Make sure to heat the peanut butter, syrup, and sugar mixture until bubbling and coat the cereal thoroughly before shaping. Pressing the mixture firmly on the baking sheet also helps with firm clusters that don’t fall apart.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Just be sure to use a certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal, as some brands contain malt flavoring derived from barley.
Final Thoughts
Making these Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips Recipe feels like bringing a childhood favorite into the present with a vibrant, flavorful update. They’re quick to prepare, fun to eat, and guaranteed to put a smile on anyone’s face. I can’t wait for you to try them out and put your own spin on this delicious, colorful treat!
Print
Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously chewy Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats enhanced with crunchy M&M’s and mini chocolate chips, offering a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and chocolatey flavors in every bite. A quick and easy no-bake dessert ideal for parties, snacks, or anytime cravings.
Ingredients
Main 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
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture: In a saucepan, combine the peanut butter, light corn syrup (or honey), and sugar. Heat over medium heat while stirring continuously until the mixture just begins to bubble. This ensures everything is melted and well combined. Remove from heat immediately.
- Combine with Cereal: Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the Rice Krispies cereal in a large mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly until the cereal is evenly coated with the mixture, ensuring the treats will stick together well.
- Shape the Treats: Transfer the sticky mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Press the mixture into clusters or shape them into bars or squares as preferred while still warm and pliable.
- Add Toppings: Evenly sprinkle mini chocolate chips and M&M’s over the pressed treats. Gently press them in lightly so they adhere but maintain their texture and appearance.
- Cool and Set: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature until they become firm and set completely. Once set, separate into individual servings and enjoy your delicious peanut butter Rice Krispie treats!
Notes
- Use honey as a natural alternative to corn syrup if preferred.
- Adjust the quantity of Rice Krispies cereal between 5 to 6 cups depending on desired treat thickness and chewiness.
- Press treats firmly but avoid compacting too much to keep a light, crispy texture.
- Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days for best freshness.
- Optionally, add nuts or other candies to customize the treats further.
