If you’re craving an irresistible twist on a classic snack, this Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine the perfect balance of gooey marshmallows, the rich and nutty depth of peanut butter, and just a hint of sea salt to awaken every bite. It’s a comforting, crunchy, and slightly salty treat that feels homemade and special, yet is incredibly easy to whip up whenever that sweet tooth calls.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple but absolutely essential to achieving the perfect Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe. Each one plays a starring role, whether adding creamy texture, sweet chewiness, or that satisfying salty kick.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Choose natural for a pure peanut flavor or regular for a classic creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Provides richness and helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warm sweetness and depth to balance the salty peanut butter.
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances the overall flavor and keeps each bite perfectly balanced.
- 10 oz marshmallows (mini or regular): The glue that holds it all together with soft, melty sweetness.
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal: For that signature crispy, airy texture everyone loves.
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for topping): A finishing touch that brings out the peanut butter flavor and adds a lovely crunch.
How to Make Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch pan with butter or cooking spray. This simple step ensures your treats release easily once set and helps the edges remain soft rather than sticking and tearing apart.
Step 2: Melt the Base
In a large pot over medium heat, melt together the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter until smooth and glossy. This rich mixture serves as the luscious foundation of the treats, marrying buttery softness with nutty goodness perfectly.
Step 3: Add Marshmallows
Once the butter and peanut butter are combined, stir in the marshmallows. Keep the heat at medium and stir constantly until they melt into one gooey, creamy mixture. This step is key to giving the treats their iconic chewy texture.
Step 4: Flavor Boost
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and fine sea salt. This little mix of flavor nuggets elevates the sweetness and creates layers of flavor that excite the palate with every bite.
Step 5: Mix It Up
Fold the Rice Krispies cereal gently into the marshmallow mixture. Be delicate here—you want every crispy piece coated evenly without crushing the cereal. This keeps your treats light and satisfyingly crisp.
Step 6: Press Into Pan and Add Flaky Salt
Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. Press down gently with a greased spatula or lightly oiled hands to pack everything in evenly. While still warm, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top. This salty finishing touch adds a delightful flavor contrast and texture that makes these treats unforgettable.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes to set properly. Once firm, slice into squares and prepare to impress with each perfectly balanced bite of your Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe.
How to Serve Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling flaky sea salt on top is a no-brainer, but you can also drizzle melted chocolate or a light swirl of peanut butter for added decadence. Toasted chopped peanuts make an excellent crunchy garnish that complements the creamy peanut butter inside.
Side Dishes
These treats shine on their own, but pairing them with fresh fruit like apple slices or a scoop of vanilla ice cream balances their richness and adds a refreshing touch. A cold glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee also make perfect companions to cut through the peanut butter’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, use cookie cutters to shape the treats into fun designs like hearts or stars before they set completely. Layer them with chocolate squares or sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two squares for an indulgent dessert. Wrapping individual portions in wax paper makes delightful grab-and-go gifts or school snacks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for about 2 to 3 days, perfect for treating yourself later or sharing with friends.
Freezing
If you want to keep these treats longer, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze beautifully for up to a month without losing their texture or flavor.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen treats, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer them a little warm, gently microwave them for 10 to 15 seconds, but be careful not to overdo it or the marshmallows will become too sticky.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture and little peanut bits, which can make these treats even more interesting and flavorful.
Is it necessary to use unsalted butter?
Using unsalted butter gives you full control over the saltiness of the treats. Since you’re already adding sea salt and flaky salt on top, it’s best to stick with unsalted butter to avoid an overly salty outcome.
Can I substitute another cereal for Rice Krispies?
While Rice Krispies are traditional for their light crunch, swapping them for a similar rice-based or corn-based cereal works fine, but keep in mind the texture will vary slightly.
How can I make these treats vegan?
To make vegan salted peanut butter Rice Krispies treats, use vegan butter and choose marshmallows that are gelatin-free. Check your cereal brand to ensure it is vegan-friendly as well.
What’s the best way to get evenly sized squares?
Using a sharp knife warmed in hot water makes slicing clean and easy. Press the knife firmly and wipe it clean between cuts to keep the edges neat.
Final Thoughts
If you love the idea of crunchy, gooey, salty-sweet treats with a peanut butter punch, you have to try this Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe. It’s a simple, satisfying snack that feels homemade and a little special every time. Whether for a party, an afternoon snack, or a cozy night in, these treats hit every spot. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll become a cherished recipe you’ll keep coming back to.
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Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats combine the classic crispy marshmallow delight with creamy peanut butter and a touch of sea salt for a perfect sweet and salty snack. Easy to make and irresistibly tasty, they’re ideal for parties, lunchboxes, or anytime you crave a nostalgic treat with a gourmet twist.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 10 oz marshmallows (mini or regular)
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Optional Topping
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan with butter or cooking spray and set it aside so it’s ready for the marshmallow mixture.
- Melt the Base: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter together, stirring until smooth to ensure they combine well without burning. Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Flavor Boost: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract along with the fine sea salt to evenly distribute their flavors into the mixture.
- Mix It Up: Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the pot and gently fold it into the melted marshmallow and peanut butter mixture until the cereal is fully coated, ensuring every bite has that perfect crunch.
- Press Into Pan: Transfer the coated mixture into the prepared pan. Using a greased spatula or oiled hands, press the mixture down gently and evenly to create a uniform layer that will set well.
- Add Flaky Salt: While the mixture is still warm, sprinkle flaky sea salt evenly over the top to enhance the sweet and salty balance and add a pleasant crunch.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes until they set firmly. Once cooled, slice the treats into squares and serve.
Notes
- Use natural peanut butter for a healthier, less sweet option, or regular creamy peanut butter for a richer flavor.
- Mini marshmallows melt faster and evenly, but regular size marshmallows work well too.
- Pressing the mixture gently but firmly helps create neatly shaped treats that hold together without being too dense.
- Flaky sea salt topping is optional but highly recommended for a gourmet touch.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For a nut allergy-friendly version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
