Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a satisfyingly crunchy, sweet-and-salty snack that’s guaranteed to make you nostalgic for childhood—while giving those classic squares a serious upgrade—let me introduce you to Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats. Imagine layers of gooey marshmallows, creamy peanut butter, and crispy cereal, all finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt that makes every bite taste like a little celebration. They’re ridiculously easy to whip up, impossible to resist, and destined to disappear at any gathering!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how just a handful of pantry staples transform into such a show-stopping treat. Each ingredient here is a star in its own right, perfectly balanced to deliver that signature taste and texture of Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats.

• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and a soft, chewy foundation—melting beautifully with the peanut butter.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: Brings a nutty, comforting flavor plus a hint of saltiness that pairs perfectly with the marshmallows.
• Flaky Sea Salt: Just a touch inside and a sprinkle on top elevates the whole experience to gourmet territory.
• Mini Marshmallows: Key for that irresistibly gooey, sticky texture that holds everything together.
• Rice Krispies Cereal: The iconic crunch and lightness make each bite airy and delightful.

How to Make Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Peanut Butter Together

Start by placing a large pot over low heat, then add the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter. Let them slowly melt, stirring often, until you have a warm, silky-smooth mixture. This step ensures that every square bursts with luxurious peanutty flavor while keeping the texture light and dreamy.

Step 2: Add the Marshmallows

Toss in the mini marshmallows and keep stirring as they begin to melt into a glossy, gooey cloud. Make sure the heat stays low—this keeps the mixture creamy (not stiff) and helps marry those marshmallows with your butter and peanut butter for super-satisfying Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats.

Step 3: Season and Remove from the Heat

When no marshmallow lumps remain, stir in the flaky sea salt and immediately remove the pot from the heat. The salt enhances every dimension of flavor, making each bite a salty-sweet adventure.

Step 4: Fold in the Rice Krispies Cereal

Pour in your 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal and fold everything together with a sturdy spatula. Work quickly but gently to coat every cereal puff in the marshmallow-peanut butter blend for ultimate crunch and ooey-gooeyness.

Step 5: Press into the Pan and Finish with Sea Salt

Tip the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch pan. Use a spatula or a sheet of wax paper to press it down evenly—don’t smash it or you’ll lose some of that fun texture. Sprinkle more flaky sea salt on top for a sparkling finish. Let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing into squares and devouring!

How to Serve Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, try a drizzle of melted chocolate or a handful of chopped salted peanuts on top just before the final sprinkle of flaky sea salt. These little details bring even more flavor, texture, and show-stopping flair to your Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats.

Side Dishes

Pair your treats with a cold glass of milk, an iced coffee, or even a tart raspberry lemonade to balance out the sweet-savory flavors. They also play well beside a platter of fresh fruit, making them right at home on a picnic table or dessert buffet.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your squares into fun shapes using cookie cutters for parties, wrap individual pieces in parchment for easy gifting, or layer them in a trifle dish with whipped cream and berries for a playful spin on dessert. There’s no wrong way to show off these Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any extra Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay perfectly fresh and chewy for up to three days, making them ideal for lunchboxes, late-night snacks, or last-minute treats.

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch ahead of time, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and pop them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to two months. When a craving strikes, just let them thaw at room temperature for an hour and enjoy!

Reheating

These treats are delicious at room temp, but to recapture that fresh-from-the-pot gooeyness, give a square a 5-second zap in the microwave—just enough to soften and amplify the peanut butter aroma without making them too warm or melty.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture and nutty bits, which some people love. Just know your treats will have a more rustic, chunky bite—delicious in their own right.

How do I keep Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats from sticking to the pan?

Grease your baking pan well with butter or line it with parchment paper. For pressing down the mixture, use a buttered spatula or lay a sheet of wax paper over the top before smoothing—your hands will stay clean and the treats won’t stick.

Are these treats gluten-free?

They can be! Just be sure to use certified gluten-free Rice Krispies cereal and marshmallows. It’s a fantastic, naturally gluten-free option for parties and school snacks.

Can I add extra mix-ins?

Yes, feel free to stir in half a cup of chopped salted peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or even pretzel pieces for added flavor and texture. Just fold them in gently with the cereal before pressing into the pan.

What if my treats turn out too hard?

The trick is to gently melt the marshmallows and use low heat—overcooking can make them stiff. Press the mixture softly into the pan; packing it in too firmly can also make the bars dense rather than tender.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a nostalgic yet grown-up dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, Salted Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats are a must-try. I can’t wait for you to experience that perfect blend of salty, sweet, and crunch. Don’t forget to share with friends—if you can resist eating the whole pan yourself!

Print