Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats: A Decadent Twist on a Beloved Classic
Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats are a delightful variation on the traditional Rice Krispies treats we all know and love. This recipe takes the simple, sweet, and crunchy nature of the original and adds a layer of richness and complexity with the addition of creamy peanut butter and nutty browned butter. Whether you’re preparing them for a school event, a family gathering, or just a treat to have on hand, these squares offer a perfect balance of salty and sweet that will leave everyone reaching for seconds.
The Magic of Brown Butter
Brown butter is a secret weapon in the kitchen. It’s created by melting butter over medium heat, allowing it to foam and bubble as the milk solids separate and begin to caramelize. This process imparts a deep, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the treats. The transition from golden yellow to a rich, toasty brown is something to be savored. The aroma alone—reminiscent of hazelnuts and caramel—will fill your kitchen with warmth and anticipation.
In this recipe, the brown butter not only adds complexity but also balances the sweetness of the marshmallows and the peanut butter. The golden-brown bits of sediment that form as the butter browns are full of flavor, so don’t be alarmed when you see them. However, if you’re concerned about them darkening too much, simply strain the butter through a fine sieve before proceeding.
Choosing the Right Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is the star ingredient in this variation, and choosing the right one is crucial for the perfect texture and flavor. The recipe calls for smooth peanut butter, and it’s recommended to use Skippy Natural Creamy Peanut Butter. This variety is ideal because it has just the right amount of sweetness and saltiness, and its consistency is smooth and easy to incorporate into the melted butter and marshmallow mixture.
It’s important to avoid freshly ground or chunky peanut butter in this recipe. Freshly ground peanut butter can separate and become oily when heated, while chunky peanut butter might not blend as smoothly with the other ingredients. The goal is to create a uniform, creamy mixture that coats each puffed rice cereal grain evenly.
Marshmallows: The Gooey Glue
Marshmallows are the key to achieving that characteristic gooey, sticky texture that makes Rice Krispies treats so addictive. In this recipe, you’ll use two 10-ounce bags of mini marshmallows, but with a twist: you’ll set aside two cups of the marshmallows to stir in at the end. This clever step creates little pockets of partially melted marshmallows throughout the treats, adding an extra layer of texture and visual appeal.
The bulk of the marshmallows is melted into the brown butter and peanut butter mixture, creating a luscious, sticky base that binds the cereal together. The reserved marshmallows, added just before pressing the mixture into the pan, ensure that each bite has a delightful contrast between gooey and crispy textures.
Crispy Rice Cereal: The Foundation
The choice of cereal might seem straightforward, but it’s important to stick with a trusted brand like Rice Krispies for this recipe. The crispness of the cereal is essential for achieving the right texture in the finished treats. Each grain should remain distinct, providing that satisfying crunch that pairs so well with the gooey marshmallow and rich peanut butter.
To achieve the best results, measure out the 7 cups of cereal before starting the recipe. This ensures that once your marshmallow mixture is ready, you can quickly incorporate the cereal without any delays, which is crucial for maintaining the right consistency.
Bringing It All Together
The process of making Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats is straightforward, but a few key steps ensure success:
- Prepare the Pan: Before you start cooking, line a 9 x 13-inch pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil. Lightly grease the foil with softened butter or nonstick cooking spray. This not only prevents sticking but also makes it easier to lift the treats out of the pan for cutting.
- Brown the Butter: Melt the butter over medium heat in a large pot or Dutch oven. As it foams and bubbles, swirl the pan occasionally to ensure even cooking. Keep a close eye on the color, and as soon as you smell the nutty aroma of browned butter, remove the pan from the heat to prevent burning.
- Incorporate the Peanut Butter: Off the heat, stir in the peanut butter until fully combined with the brown butter. The residual heat will help the peanut butter to melt smoothly into the mixture.
- Melt the Marshmallows: Add the remaining marshmallows, vanilla, and salt to the pot, and return it to medium heat. Stir constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Mix in the Cereal: Remove the pot from the heat and immediately add the cereal. Using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, stir until the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Add the Reserved Marshmallows: Gently fold in the reserved marshmallows, being careful not to overmix. You want them to remain partially melted, creating pockets of gooeyness in the finished treats.
- Press and Cool: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it into an even layer using the butter wrapper or damp fingers. Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for at least an hour before cutting.
Cutting and Storing Your Treats
Once your Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats have cooled and set, it’s time to cut them into squares. The foil overhang makes it easy to lift the entire block out of the pan and onto a cutting board. Use a serrated bread knife for the cleanest cuts—this will help you slice through the gooey marshmallow without crushing the cereal.
These treats are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay fresh for up to five days. If you’d like to make them ahead of time, they’re also freezer-friendly. Simply layer the squares between sheets of wax paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to six weeks. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let the treats stand at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
Nutritional Information and Tips for Gluten-Free Adaptation
Each square of Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats is a decadent indulgence, with 191 calories, 9 grams of fat, and 28 grams of carbohydrates. While these treats are undeniably rich, they also offer a bit of protein from the peanut butter, making them a slightly more substantial snack than the traditional version.
For those following a gluten-free diet, this recipe is easily adaptable. While Rice Krispies themselves are typically made from rice, some brands may contain malt flavoring, which is derived from barley and contains gluten. Fortunately, there are gluten-free crispy rice cereals available that can be used as a substitute. Always check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats are a fun, delicious twist on a classic favorite. The combination of brown butter, creamy peanut butter, and gooey marshmallows creates a treat that is both nostalgic and indulgent. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these squares are sure to bring smiles to the faces of all who try them. So go ahead—treat yourself and your loved ones to this delectable dessert!
