Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Cups Recipe

If you’re seeking a sweet treat that’s as nostalgic as it is irresistible, Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Cups will quickly become your favorite indulgence. Combining the pure comfort of creamy peanut butter, the crunch of crispy rice cereal, and a decadent layer of chocolate, these no-bake wonders are a snap to prepare. There’s something about that blend of salty-sweet, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a slight crunch that makes each bite a celebration. Whether you need a lunchbox surprise, a party snack, or a “just because” treat, Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Cups hit the spot every single time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Cups so memorable is how a handful of pantry staples transform into something extraordinary. Each ingredient adds its own special touch, from nutty richness to delightful crunch and a smooth hint of chocolatey bliss.

• Unsweetened peanut butter (1½ cups/345g): Gives the cups their creamy base and deep, nutty flavor—use your favorite kind for best results.
• Pure maple syrup or honey (½ cup/170g): Naturally sweetens the mixture and helps bind everything together—choose maple syrup for a subtle earthiness or honey for extra floral notes.
• Unsalted butter or coconut oil (½ cup/8 Tbsp/14g): Helps smooth out the peanut butter and creates the vivid, rich mouthfeel in every bite.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp, optional): Adds a hint of warmth and rounds out the dessert (but feel free to skip if you prefer the classic, straight-up peanut butter-chocolate combo).
• Crispy rice cereal (4 cups/112g): The star of the show—this cereal delivers that iconic crunch and keeps the treats light but satisfyingly crispy.
• Pinch sea salt: Just a touch elevates every other flavor and keeps the sweetness from overwhelming the palate.
• Chocolate chips (2 cups/340g): Melt down for a glossy chocolate layer that takes these treats over the top—semi-sweet or dark chocolate both work beautifully.
• Unsalted butter (2 Tbsp/29g): Blends with the chocolate for a velvety-smooth, glossy finish.

How to Make Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Cups

Step 1: Make the Peanut Butter Filling

Start by grabbing your largest, thick-bottomed pot (something like a Dutch oven is idea). Add the peanut butter, maple syrup (or honey), and butter. Place the pot over medium heat and stir constantly—the ingredients will quickly melt together into a smooth, glossy mixture. If you’re using vanilla extract, add it once everything is melted. Pour in the crispy rice cereal and a generous pinch of sea salt, then fold gently to coat every piece in that luxurious peanut butter blend.

Step 2: Shape the Cups

Lightly mist a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray to make those rice crispy treats pop out effortlessly. Scoop the peanut butter and cereal mixture into each cup, filling about two-thirds of the way up. Use the back of a spoon to really press the mixture down firmly and even out the surface. This recipe makes 15 Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Cups, so if you have another muffin pan, prep it now or wait to make the last three cups after your first batch sets.

Step 3: Melt and Prepare the Chocolate Layer

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and unsalted butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each burst, until the chocolate is silky and completely melted—usually about 2 minutes total does the trick. Take your time here; melted chocolate is the lush final touch that really makes these Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Cups spectacular.

Step 4: Top and Set

Spoon a layer of the smooth, melted chocolate over the pressed peanut butter-cereal mixture in each cup. Spread it out with the back of the spoon for a glossy surface that covers the whole top. Slide the muffin pan into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or into the freezer for a quick chill of about 30 minutes, until the chocolate is set and the cups are perfectly firm.

Step 5: Release and Enjoy

Once completely set, use a butter knife to gently work around the edges of each cup and pop them out of the tin. You’ll know you’ve succeeded when you hear that little “snap” and see the perfect Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Cup in your hand. Each bite is a delicious celebration—indulge and enjoy!

How to Serve Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Cups

Garnishes

Bring your Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Cups to the next level by adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even a few chopped peanuts right after spooning on the melted chocolate. These little extras boost both the look and taste, delighting anyone who takes a bite.

Side Dishes

These treats are rich, so they pair really well with a tall glass of milk (classic!), a robust coffee, or even a fancier option like a coconut latte. If you’re building a snack spread, they contrast beautifully with fresh berries or slices of crisp apple to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party-worthy finish, line a platter with parchment or colorful cupcake liners, and nestle the Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Cups inside. Stack them in mason jars tied with twine for an easy edible gift, or serve on a tiered dessert tray alongside fresh fruit and mini cookies.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Cups keep best in an airtight container or large zip-top bag in the refrigerator. They’ll stay perfectly chewy and crunchy for up to 10 days, so you can make them ahead and always have a sweet nibble on hand!

Freezing

For long-term storage, pop your peanut butter cups into a freezer-safe container or bag (a layer of wax paper between them prevents sticking). They freeze well for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight whenever you want to treat yourself.

Reheating

While these cups don’t technically need reheating, if you love a gooey chocolate top, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it will melt the chocolate and soften the base too much.

FAQs

Can I use almond butter or another nut butter instead of peanut butter?

Absolutely! Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Cups are endlessly adaptable—almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter can all swap in smoothly for peanut butter. Just choose natural, unsweetened versions to get the best texture and flavor.

What’s the best chocolate to use for the top layer?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips offer a classic, balanced sweetness, but dark chocolate adds an elegant edge that pairs beautifully with peanut butter. If you like things extra-sweet, milk chocolate chips are great too!

Are Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Cups gluten-free?

Many crispy rice cereals are gluten-free by design, but always check your packaging to be sure. All the other base ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for those avoiding gluten.

How can I make these vegan?

Easy! Simply use coconut oil in place of butter, choose maple syrup instead of honey, and pick dairy-free chocolate chips. That’s it—Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Cups can be completely plant-based without losing any of their charm.

Can I double the recipe for a party?

Definitely. The recipe scales up beautifully; just use two muffin tins or make the cups in batches. These treats are guaranteed crowd-pleasers at any gathering, and leftovers (if there are any) store easily.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like whipping up a batch of Rice Crispy Peanut Butter Cups and sharing them with friends and family—or sneaking one straight from the fridge as a well-deserved pick-me-up. These treats are pure comfort and joy in every bite, and I promise you’ll be coming back to this recipe again and again. Give it a try and let it work its sweet, crunchy magic!

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