Description

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Cups are the perfect no-bake treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and creamy peanut butter with the delightful crunch of Rice Krispies cereal. This quick and easy recipe takes just minutes to prepare and requires no baking, making it an ideal dessert for busy days, casual gatherings, or even holiday parties. With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these indulgent, portion-controlled cups that are perfect for both kids and adults. Plus, the recipe is highly adaptable, allowing for substitutions and variations to suit your dietary preferences, whether you’re aiming for a healthier version or a fun, festive twist.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1 ½ cups chocolate chips vegan chocolate chips also work
1 cup chunky peanut butter
6 tablespoons honey
⅛ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prepare Your Muffin Tin: Line a muffin tin with paper or silicone liners for easy removal of the cups.
Melt the Peanut Butter Mixture: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 1 cup of chunky peanut butter, 6 tablespoons of honey, and ⅛ teaspoon of salt. Stir continuously until smooth and well combined, about 3-5 minutes.
Combine with Rice Krispies: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 3 cups of Rice Krispies cereal. Mix thoroughly until all cereal is coated with the peanut butter mixture.
Form the Cups: Spoon the peanut butter and Rice Krispies mixture into the prepared muffin tin, pressing down gently to form cup shapes. Ensure the mixture is packed firmly to hold its shape.
Melt the Chocolate: In a separate saucepan, melt 1 ½ cups of chocolate chips over low heat, stirring continuously until smooth. Alternatively, melt the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval.
Fill the Cups with Chocolate: Spoon the melted chocolate over each Rice Krispie base in the muffin tin, filling to the top.
Chill to Set: Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour, or in the freezer for 30 minutes, until the chocolate is set and the cups are firm.
Serve and Enjoy: Once set, remove the cups from the muffin tin and peel off the liners. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

Ingredient Substitutions:
- For a healthier option, use dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) and natural peanut butter with no added sugar or oils.
- To make the recipe vegan, substitute regular chocolate with dairy-free chocolate and ensure your Rice Krispies or similar cereal is free from any animal-derived ingredients.
Texture Tips:
- Using smooth peanut butter gives the cups a more even texture, but feel free to use crunchy peanut butter for added texture and a heartier bite.
- Ensure you don’t overmix the Rice Krispies into the melted peanut butter and chocolate to retain the signature crunch.
Variations:
- Add a layer of caramel or top the cups with a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra flavor boost.
- For a festive variation, try incorporating crushed peppermint candies during the holidays or colorful sprinkles for special occasions.
Storage Tips:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week to keep them fresh and chewy.
- You can also freeze the cups for up to 2 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving or enjoy them chilled for a firmer texture.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these cups chilled or at room temperature, depending on your texture preference. Pair them with a cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk for the ultimate indulgence!