Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Recipe

Irresistible Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Recipe

Melted chocolate and creamy peanut butter dance together in these irresistible chocolate peanut butter rice krispie cups that promise pure indulgence.

Sweet kernels of crispy rice nestle between layers of rich, decadent chocolate and smooth peanut butter.

The treat combines classic comfort with gourmet flair, delivering a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by a silky, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

No baking required means you can whip up this delectable dessert in minutes.

The recipe transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary snack that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Prepare to be the star of any gathering with these mouthwatering, addictive cups that blend childhood nostalgia with grown-up sophistication.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Calories: 256 kcal

Servings: 12

FAQs

  • Are Rice Krispie treats gluten-free?

Not automatically. Standard Rice Krispies contain gluten, so you’ll need to use a gluten-free rice cereal brand like Rice Krispies Gluten Free or similar alternative brands to make this recipe truly gluten-free.

  • Can I use different nut butters?

Absolutely! You can swap peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter. Each will provide a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining the recipe’s overall texture and consistency.

  • How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when setting?

Always melt chocolate slowly and add a small amount of coconut oil, which helps create a smoother, more stable chocolate layer that’s less likely to crack when chilling. Ensure you’re not overheating the chocolate and stir frequently during melting.

  • Can kids help make this recipe?

Yes! This recipe is kid-friendly. Children can help mix the cereal with peanut butter, spoon the mixture into liners, and assist with spreading chocolate. Always supervise when working near heat or using the microwave.

What’s Inside Chocolate PB Rice Krispie Cups

For Base Ingredients:
  • Peanut Butter: Creamy foundation that adds rich, nutty flavor and helps bind ingredients together; opt for natural, smooth varieties for best texture.
  • Honey: Natural sweetener that provides gentle sweetness and helps create cohesive mixture; raw honey offers deeper flavor profile.
  • Rice Krispies Cereal: Crispy element that delivers delightful crunch and light texture; choose fresh, crisp cereal for maximum snap.
For Chocolate Coating:
  • Chocolate Chips: Smooth topping that creates luxurious chocolate layer; select high-quality dark or milk chocolate for best melting properties.
  • Coconut Oil: Helps chocolate melt smoothly and creates glossy finish; use refined version for neutral taste.
For Optional Garnish:
  • Flaky Sea Salt: Enhances chocolate and peanut butter flavors with subtle mineral crunch; sprinkle lightly for sophisticated touch.

Tools That Make These Cups Neat and

  • Medium-sized Saucepan: For melting peanut butter and honey smoothly.
  • Muffin Tin: Essential for shaping the Rice Krispie cups.
  • Cupcake Liners: Helps easily remove and serve the cups.
  • Microwave-Safe Bowl: Used for melting chocolate chips.
  • Spoon: Perfect for stirring mixtures and pressing down Rice Krispies.
  • Measuring Cups: Helps measure ingredients accurately.

How to Press and Chill Krispie Cups

  • Warm Peanut Butter Blend

Gently heat peanut butter and honey in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the mixture transforms into a silky, smooth consistency. Remove from heat after 2-3 minutes.

  • Create Crunchy Mixture

Pour Rice Krispies into the warm peanut butter blend. Fold carefully to ensure every crispy piece gets coated with the sweet, nutty mixture.

  • Build Cup Foundations

Place cupcake liners in a muffin tin. Carefully press the Rice Krispies mixture into each liner, creating a compact and sturdy base.

  • Melt Chocolate

Use a microwave-safe bowl to transform chocolate chips into liquid gold. Zap in short bursts, stirring between each interval until the chocolate becomes perfectly smooth.

  • Chocolate Drizzle

Generously cover the Rice Krispies bases with melted chocolate. Use a spoon to spread the chocolate evenly across each cup.

  • Chill and Solidify

Slide the muffin tin into the refrigerator. Let the cups rest and set for about an hour until the chocolate becomes firm and delightful.

  • Indulge and Share

Carefully remove the cups from the tin. These decadent treats are ready to be devoured and enjoyed with friends or as a personal treat.

Flavor Tweaks for Sweet and Salty Balance

  • Swap honey with agave nectar or brown rice syrup for different flavor profiles and dietary needs. Try almond butter or sunflower seed butter for those with peanut allergies.
  • Press the Rice Krispies mixture firmly into the muffin liners to create a compact, sturdy base that holds together perfectly when biting.
  • Prepare these treats up to 5 days in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll maintain their delicious crunch and chocolatey goodness.
  • Ensure you use certified gluten-free Rice Krispies or crispy rice cereal to make this recipe completely gluten-free, perfect for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
  • Sprinkle crushed peanuts, sea salt, or drizzle extra melted chocolate on top for added texture and visual appeal. Consider adding a light dusting of cocoa powder for an extra chocolate boost.

Ways to Serve These Mini Treats

  • Sweet Snack Platter: Arrange these delightful cups on a wooden board with fresh strawberries, banana slices, and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for a gorgeous presentation that adds color and extra texture.
  • Dessert Companion: Pair these chocolatey treats with a cold glass of milk, vanilla almond milk, or a warm cup of coffee to complement the rich peanut butter and chocolate flavors.
  • Party Portion Strategy: Create mini bite-sized versions by using a mini muffin tin, perfect for kids' parties, potlucks, or as quick grab-and-go desserts that everyone will love.
  • Gift-Worthy Packaging: Wrap individual cups in cute parchment paper or small clear treat bags tied with ribbons, making them a delightful homemade gift for friends or family who appreciate sweet, nostalgic treats.

Storage Tips That Maintain That Crunch

  • Store these delectable cups in an airtight container within the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Cold temperatures help maintain their perfect texture and prevent chocolate from melting.
  • Wrap individual cups in plastic wrap, then place inside a freezer-safe container. These treats can stay fresh for 2-3 months when frozen, making them great make-ahead snacks.
  • Keep cups away from direct sunlight or warm spots. Chocolate and peanut butter can soften quickly, compromising their delightful crunch and shape.
  • Place small squares of parchment paper between stacked cups inside storage containers. This prevents them from sticking together and maintains their beautiful individual design.
Print
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Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Recipe

Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups Recipe


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4.7 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

Chocolate peanut butter rice krispie cups blend creamy chocolate with nutty peanut butter in a classic no-bake dessert. Crispy rice cereal provides delightful texture, while melted chocolate and smooth peanut butter create irresistible sweetness you’ll crave.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (175 g) chocolate chips (milk, dark, or semi-sweet)
  • ¾ cup (180 g) peanut butter
  • 3 cups (75 g) rice cereal
  • ¼ cup (60 g) honey or maple syrup
  • crushed peanuts
  • sea salt flakes

Instructions

  1. Melt Blend: Combine peanut butter and honey in a saucepan, heating until the mixture transforms into a smooth, homogeneous liquid.
  2. Incorporate Cereal: Remove from heat and gently fold Rice Krispies into the warm mixture, ensuring complete and even coating of each crispy morsel.
  3. Shape Base: Transfer the cereal mixture into cupcake liners, firmly pressing to create a compact and uniform foundation for each delectable cup.
  4. Craft Chocolate Topping: Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in the microwave, stirring between brief intervals to achieve a silky, glossy chocolate coating.
  5. Finish and Chill: Lavishly pour the molten chocolate over the Rice Krispies base, spreading evenly to completely enrobe each cup. Refrigerate for approximately one hour until fully set and firm.
  6. Serve: Carefully extract the chocolate peanut butter cups from the tin, presenting these indulgent treats ready to delight and satisfy sweet cravings.

Notes

Adjust Honey Consistency: Use room temperature honey for smoother mixing and prevent crystallization, ensuring a more uniform blend with peanut butter.

Control Melting Temperature: Melt chocolate chips slowly and carefully to prevent burning, using 15-second intervals and stirring between each microwave session for a perfect glossy texture.

Press Firmly for Stability: Apply consistent, gentle pressure when forming the Rice Krispie base to create compact, well-structured cups that hold their shape when eaten.

Consider Dietary Alternatives: Swap regular honey with maple syrup for vegan options, use dairy-free chocolate chips, or replace peanut butter with almond butter for different nutritional profiles and flavor variations.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 75 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
Emily Lawson

Emily Lawson

Content Creator & Culinary Specialist

Expertise

  • Creative Content Writing and Blogging​
  • Plant-Based and Alternative Grilling Recipes​
  • Food Styling and Visual Storytelling​
  • Nutritional Analysis and Healthy Cooking

Education

Oregon Culinary Institute
Diploma in Culinary Arts
Focus: Emphasis on farm-to-table cooking, sustainable practices, and the fusion of global flavors with traditional grilling methods. ​


Emily Lawson is the content creator at Daves Grill, turning tasty ideas into clear, easy recipes. Based in Portland, she trained at the Oregon Culinary Institute and loves cooking with fresh, seasonal ingredients, especially grilled veggies and global flavors.

Emily mixes food writing with hands-on cooking to bring you recipes that feel fun, not stressful. Her goal is to make every dish simple, flavorful, and worth coming back to. Together, she and Dave serve up real food, one recipe at a time.

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