Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Rice krispies cereal: Provides the crunchy base for the treats.

Peanut butter: Adds creamy texture and rich flavor.

Corn syrup: Acts as a binder and sweetener.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the treats.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.

When heating the sugar and corn syrup mixture, make sure to stir constantly to prevent burning and ensure the sugar dissolves completely. This will create a smooth base for incorporating the peanut butter and vanilla extract.

• rice krispies cereal - Substitute with puffed rice cereal: Puffed rice cereal has a similar texture and crunch, making it a great alternative.

• peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter provides a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor, suitable for those with peanut allergies.

• corn syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey offers a natural sweetness and similar viscosity, making it a good replacement for corn syrup.

• sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and provides a caramel-like flavor, making it a healthier alternative.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract adds a different but complementary flavor, providing a unique twist to the treats.

• Allow the peanut butter rice krispie treats to cool completely in the pan before attempting to store or freeze them. This ensures they hold their shape and texture.

• For storing at room temperature:

  1. Cut the treats into squares or desired shapes.
  2. Place them in an airtight container, layering parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
  3. Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. They should stay fresh for up to a week.

• For refrigerating:

  1. Follow the same steps as for room temperature storage.
  2. Place the airtight container in the refrigerator. This can extend their freshness for up to two weeks.
  3. Before serving, let the treats sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften.

• For freezing:

  1. Cut the rice krispie treats into individual portions.
  2. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
  3. Place the wrapped treats in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to remove as much air as possible.
  4. Label the container with the date and contents.
  5. Freeze for up to 2 months.
  6. To thaw, remove the desired number of treats from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until they reach the desired consistency.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a square of peanut butter rice krispie treats on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
  3. Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
  4. Check if it's warm enough; if not, continue heating in 10-second intervals until desired warmth is achieved.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
  2. Place the peanut butter rice krispie treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover the treats loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 10 minutes or until they are warm and slightly gooey.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a non-stick skillet over low heat.
  2. Add the peanut butter rice krispie treats to the skillet.
  3. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the heat.
  4. Heat for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the treats are warmed through.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat the toaster oven to 250°F (120°C).
  2. Place the peanut butter rice krispie treats on a small baking tray.
  3. Cover with a piece of aluminum foil to keep them from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes or until they are warm and slightly gooey.

• Large pot: used to combine and heat the sugar and corn syrup until the sugar dissolves.

• Wooden spoon: ideal for stirring the peanut butter and vanilla extract into the sugar mixture until smooth.

• Measuring cups: essential for accurately measuring the rice krispies cereal, peanut butter, corn syrup, and sugar.

• Measuring spoons: used to measure the vanilla extract.

• 9x13 inch pan: the container where the mixture is pressed and allowed to cool before cutting.

• Non-stick spray: used to grease the 9x13 inch pan to prevent the mixture from sticking.

• Spatula: helpful for pressing the mixture evenly into the pan.

• Cooling rack: optional, but useful for allowing the treats to cool evenly before cutting.

Measure ingredients ahead: Pre-measure rice krispies cereal, peanut butter, corn syrup, and sugar to streamline the process.

Use non-stick spray: Coat your spatula and pan with non-stick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Microwave option: Melt sugar and corn syrup in the microwave for quicker results, then stir in peanut butter and vanilla extract.

Cool faster: Place the pan in the fridge to speed up the cooling process before cutting into squares.