Description
These Peanut Butter Bars with Chocolate Rice Krispies are a quick, no-bake treat that combines creamy peanut butter, crispy cereal, and a smooth chocolate shell. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dessert is perfect for busy days when you need something sweet without turning on the oven. Each bite offers the perfect balance of crunch and creaminess, making it an instant family favorite.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for:
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Busy parents looking for an easy after-school snack.
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Dessert lovers craving a rich peanut butter and chocolate combo.
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Beginners who want a foolproof no-bake recipe.
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Party hosts needing a crowd-pleasing finger food.
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Holiday bakers searching for homemade gift ideas.
Why It’s Great
✅ Only 5 pantry ingredients
✅ No baking required – ready in 20 minutes
✅ Perfect mix of creamy + crunchy textures
✅ Kid-friendly and fun to make together
✅ Stores well for weeks or freezes for months
Ingredients
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1 cup creamy peanut butter (avoid natural varieties)
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6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
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2 cups powdered sugar
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1 ½ cups Rice Krispies cereal
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2 cups chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet)
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1 tbsp coconut oil or shortening (for smoother chocolate)
Optional Variations
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½ tsp vanilla extract for extra flavor
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A pinch of salt if using unsalted peanut butter
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Crushed graham crackers (replace ½ cup powdered sugar)
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White or dark chocolate coating
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Sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Mixing bowl
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Hand mixer or wooden spoon
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Baking sheet
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Parchment paper
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Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare the Peanut Butter Base
Beat together peanut butter and softened butter until smooth. -
Sweeten & Thicken
Mix in powdered sugar until you have a thick, crumbly dough. -
Add Crunch
Fold in Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated. -
Shape
Form into 1-inch balls (about 1 tablespoon each) and place on a parchment-lined tray. -
Chill
Refrigerate for 30 minutes so they hold their shape. -
Melt Chocolate
Microwave chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until silky. -
Dip & Coat
Use a fork to dip each chilled ball into chocolate. Let excess drip off. -
Set & Garnish
Return to tray, sprinkle with sea salt or Rice Krispies, and chill for 15 minutes until firm.
Pro Tips for Best Results
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Always chill the peanut butter mixture before dipping in chocolate.
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Use a fork instead of a spoon for a smooth chocolate finish.
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If chocolate thickens, reheat briefly in the microwave.
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Double the batch – they disappear fast at parties!
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
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Room Temperature: Keeps for 2–3 days in a cool, dry kitchen.
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Freezer: Store in layers separated by parchment for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp before serving.
FAQ
Q: My mixture is too crumbly. What can I do?
Add 1 teaspoon of melted butter or milk until the dough holds together.
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes! It adds extra texture along with the Rice Krispies.
Q: Are these good for make-ahead parties?
Absolutely. They taste even better after a day in the fridge.
Q: Do I have to use coconut oil?
No, but it gives the chocolate shell a smoother, shinier finish.
Conclusion
These Peanut Butter Bars with Chocolate Rice Krispies are the ultimate no-bake dessert – quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious. With their creamy peanut butter base, crispy cereal crunch, and rich chocolate coating, they’re perfect for parties, holidays, or whenever your sweet tooth strikes. Make a batch today and watch them disappear!
