Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats (Only 4 Ingredients!)

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are the perfect quick and easy sweet treat. They’re made with just four ingredients, made without marshmallows, and they’re healthy!

There’s no doubt about it—Rice Krispie Treats are one of the best creations ever. There’s something so incredible about the different textures: chewy and crunchy in all the right ways. These peanut butter Rice Krispie Treats are a bit of a twist on the classic treat.

They don’t contain marshmallows; instead, the combination of peanut butter and syrup is what makes the Rice Krispies stick together. Not only does this make them healthier, but also (in my very biased opinion) even more delicious.

And to top it all off, these peanut butter Rice Krispie Treats have a layer of chocolate on top, which takes them from a 9.5/10 to a 10/10 (if not more).

They’re super quick and easy to make, and you only need FOUR ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. These chocolate peanut butter Rice Krispie squares are perfect for meal-prepping and snacking on throughout the week, or pack them into your kids’ lunchboxes, and they’ll love you forever!

Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats:

• They’re made with four simple ingredients.
• They’re made without marshmallows.
• They’re quick and easy to make.
• They’re a perfect meal-prep snack or dessert.
• They’re healthy!
• They’re vegan, refined sugar-free, dairy-free, and gluten-free!
• They’re incredibly delicious, of course.
• They’re good for your soul and your body!

How Are These Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Healthy?

These Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are a healthier alternative to traditional Rice Krispie Treats, thanks to a few key factors:

1. Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Peanut butter is a great source of healthy fats and protein. These nutrients help keep you feeling fuller for longer and provide sustained energy. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium.
2. Natural Sweeteners: We use natural liquid sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave instead of refined sugar. These sweeteners provide a more balanced source of energy and come with additional nutrients compared to their refined counterparts.
3. No Marshmallows: Traditional Rice Krispie Treats often use marshmallows, which are high in refined sugars and additives. In this recipe, the combination of peanut butter and liquid sweetener binds the Rice Krispies together without the need for marshmallows, making the treat lower in sugar and free from artificial ingredients.
4. Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It also provides a rich flavor without needing excessive amounts of sugar. Opting for a refined sugar-free dark chocolate ensures that you get all the benefits of chocolate without extra sugars.

Ingredients and Substitutions:

These are the ingredients you’ll need to make these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Squares. You can find the exact measurements in the recipe card at the bottom of this page.

• Peanut Butter: Adds a delicious peanut butter flavor and helps the Rice Krispies stick together. Peanut butter is a great source of healthy fats and protein, making these Rice Krispie squares more satisfying and healthy! You can use any nut butter, or use seed butter for a nut-free version.

• Liquid Sweetener: Adds sweetness while keeping these refined sugar-free. The liquid sweetener also helps the Rice Krispies stick together. I use honey, but you could use maple syrup, agave, date syrup, or golden syrup.

• Rice Krispies: Any crispy rice or puffed rice cereal will work. You can use a healthier version without added sugar, or you could even use puffed quinoa or crushed rice cakes.

• Dark Chocolate: A lot of people don’t know this, but dark chocolate is actually healthy—it’s a great antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ingredient. Try to use a refined sugar-free dark chocolate like this one. You can use milk chocolate if you prefer.

• Optional Extras: By using the four ingredients above, your peanut butter Rice Krispie Treats will already be delicious, but you could add a pinch of salt and vanilla extract into the mixture if you want to elevate the flavors more. I’ve also included a “Customization” section further down on the page for some more ideas!

Dietary Adjustments

Here are some dietary adjustments you can make to ensure these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats fit your specific dietary needs:

Nut-Free Option: Use a seed butter (like sunflower seed butter or tahini) instead of peanut butter to make the treats nut-free. Ensure the seed butter is smooth and creamy for the best texture.

Vegan: Use a plant-based liquid sweetener, like maple syrup, agave, or date syrup, instead of honey. Also, make sure to use dairy-free dark chocolate to keep the recipe fully vegan.

Gluten-Free: Make sure the Rice Krispies or puffed rice cereal you use is certified gluten-free. Some brands may contain gluten, so it’s essential to check the packaging.

Refined Sugar-Free: Choose a liquid sweetener that is free from refined sugars, such as pure maple syrup, agave nectar, or date syrup. Also, use dark chocolate that is refined sugar-free.

Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free dark chocolate. Most dark chocolates are naturally dairy-free, but always check the label to be sure.

Higher Protein: Incorporate a scoop of unflavored or vanilla plant-based protein powder into the peanut butter mixture for an extra boost of protein. Adjust the amount of Rice Krispies accordingly to maintain the right consistency.

Equipment Needed:

• Digital Food Scale: For accurate measurements and perfect results.
• Small Baking Dish or Container: I use a loaf pan, but you can use a Tupperware or any other small baking dish you have.
• Parchment Paper: Makes removal from the baking dish easier.
• Mixing Bowl
• Spatula
• Sharp Knife: For beautiful squares.

How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats:

Here is a detailed summary of how to make this recipe. I’ve also included some photos, and you can find the recipe video in the recipe card. At the bottom of this page is a summarized version that can be printed.

Step One:
Prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with some butter, then adding a sheet of parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easier removal.

Step Two:
Add your peanut butter and liquid sweetener of choice to the mixing bowl and mix until smooth and well combined. You can add a pinch of salt and vanilla extract if you wish.

Step Three:
Add in your Rice Krispies and mix well. Make sure all the Rice Krispies are coated in the peanut butter mixture and that none are dry, otherwise, your squares might fall apart.

Step Four:
Transfer the Rice Krispie mixture to your baking dish and press it into the bottom in an even layer. Make sure to press down tightly to ensure the bars stick together properly.

Step Five:
Melt your chocolate. You can do this in 30-second intervals in a microwave, stirring between each interval until melted, or melt the chocolate using the double boiler method. You can mix some extra peanut butter into the melted chocolate if you want—I find this makes the chocolate layer slightly softer, which makes slicing the squares into neat slices easier!

Step Six:
Pour and spread the chocolate over the Rice Krispie mixture. Make sure to spread the chocolate in an even layer, all the way to the edges.

Step Seven:
Place in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes or until the chocolate has set before slicing with a sharp, clean knife. The longer you leave the Rice Krispie Treats to chill, the better they will stick together. I slice mine into 8 generous squares, but you can cut them into smaller squares if you prefer.

Tips & Notes

Ingredient Temperature: Ensure the peanut butter and liquid sweetener are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them combine smoothly and makes it easier to mix in the Rice Krispies.

Mix Thoroughly: When combining the Rice Krispies with the peanut butter mixture, be sure to mix thoroughly so that every piece of cereal is evenly coated. This will help the treats hold together better.

Press Firmly: When pressing the Rice Krispie mixture into the baking dish, use the back of a spatula or a piece of parchment paper to press down firmly. This helps the bars stick together and prevents them from falling apart.

Chill Time: Allow the treats to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to ensure the chocolate sets properly. The longer you let them chill, the firmer they will be and the easier they will be to cut.

Cutting Tips: Use a sharp knife to cut the treats into squares. For cleaner cuts, you can also lightly oil the knife or run it under hot water before slicing.

Bigger Batch: You can easily double or triple the recipe to make a bigger batch – these rice krispie treats last a long time in the refrigerator or freezer.

Customize your Rice Kripsie Treats:

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are versatile and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to elevate and personalize your treats:

Flavor Add-Ins:

• Vanilla Extract: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture for a subtle, warm flavor.
• Cinnamon or Nutmeg: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the mixture for a hint of spice.

Mix-Ins:

• Nuts and Seeds: Stir in chopped nuts (like almonds, walnuts, or cashews) or seeds (like chia or flaxseeds) for added crunch and nutrition.
• Dried Fruit: Add a handful of chopped dried fruit (such as cranberries, raisins, or apricots) for a touch of natural sweetness and extra chewiness.
• Coconut Flakes: Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist.

Chocolate Variations:

• Swirl in Peanut Butter: Before spreading the chocolate layer, swirl in some extra peanut butter into the Rice Krispie mixture for a marbled effect.
• Add Toppings: Sprinkle sea salt, crushed nuts, or extra chocolate chips on top of the chocolate layer for added texture and flavor.

Healthy Boosts:

• Protein Powder: Add a scoop of your favorite plant-based protein powder to the peanut butter mixture for an extra protein boost.
• Superfoods: Incorporate superfoods like hemp seeds, chia seeds, or spirulina for added nutritional benefits.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store the Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent the treats from becoming stale.

Refrigeration: For a longer shelf life, keep the treats in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks in the fridge.

Freezing: To freeze the treats, cut them into squares and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months. To thaw, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Avoiding Sticking: If you’re stacking the treats in a container, use parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking and to keep them looking neat.

By following these storage instructions, you can keep your treats fresh and delicious for as long as possible!

FAQ

more easy and healthy no-bake treats

• Healthy No-bake Snickers Brownie Cups
• No-Bake Peanut Butter Fudge (made with just 4 ingredients!)
• Peanut Butter Brownie Batter Log
• Easy & Healthy No-Bake Mini Triple Chocolate Cheesecakes

Hey! If you make this recipe, I would love it if you could leave me some feedback and a rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ in the comment section at the bottom of the page! Also let me know on Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts and see your photos!

Let me know in the comments below if you make these Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Squares!