If you have a serious sweet tooth and adore the timeless combo of chocolate and peanut butter, you are going to fall head over heels for this No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Bars Recipe. It’s the perfect treat that brings together crunchy cereal, gooey marshmallows, creamy peanut butter, and rich melted chocolate—all layered into heavenly bars that require zero baking and just about 30 minutes of your time. Whether you’re whipping up something quick for a party or just craving a nostalgic snack, these bars will satisfy every craving and have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to keep this recipe on speed dial!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of texture and flavor—from the crunchy cereal base to the smooth and luscious peanut butter and chocolate layers. Here’s what you’ll need to pull off these delightful bars with ease.
- REESE’S MINIS (7.6 ounces): These mini peanut butter cups provide those iconic bursts of peanut butter and chocolate throughout the bars and a stunning topping.
- Peanut Butter (18 ounces): Adds creaminess and rich, nutty flavor that binds the bars and keeps them irresistibly moist.
- Mini Marshmallows (10 ounces): Melt down into a sticky, sweet layer that holds everything together with a perfect soft chew.
- Chocolate Morsels (11.5 ounces): Melted smooth to form a decadent chocolate topping that seals in all the goodness.
- Unsalted Butter (1 stick): Adds richness and helps soften the marshmallows for a smooth, silky mixture.
- RICE KRISPIES Cereal (7 cups): The classic crunchy base that gives these bars their signature crisp texture.
How to Make No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Base
Start by measuring out the 7 cups of Rice Krispies cereal into a large bowl. This crispy base is the backbone of our bars, providing that satisfying crunch contrasting beautifully with the gooey layers to come.
Step 2: Melt Your Marshmallow Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine your mini marshmallows, 16 ounces of peanut butter, and one stick of unsalted butter. Microwave in 45-second bursts, stirring in between until everything is melted into a luscious, smooth blend. This step creates the sticky sweet binder that holds the crispy cereal and peanut butter together.
Step 3: Mix It All Together
Pour that warm, melty mixture into the bowl of cereal. Now comes the fun part—stirring it thoroughly. Use a large spoon or your hands (clean, of course) to combine everything evenly. You want every Rice Krispies piece coated with that nutty-marshmallow goodness.
Step 4: Press Into Pan
Line a 13 x 9 inch baking pan with wax or parchment paper to make removal easy. Dump your mixture in and press firmly and evenly with your hands until it’s a flat, uniform layer. This foundation is what will hold all your delicious toppings perfectly.
Step 5: Melt and Spread Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt your chocolate morsels in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until the chocolate is glossy and smooth. Pour and spread this chocolate layer right over your pressed cereal base. This adds the rich, luscious chocolate flavor that’s crucial for this No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Bars Recipe.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
Sprinkle the REESE’S MINIS generously on top of the melted chocolate. For that extra peanut butter punch, melt the remaining 2 ounces of peanut butter until smooth, transfer it to a zippered bag, snip a tiny corner, and drizzle it all over your bars. This drizzle makes these bars look extra special and taste even better.
Step 7: Chill and Cut
Pop the pan into the fridge for at least 15 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden and layers to set. Once firm, take a sharp knife and carefully slice your bars into generous squares. Get ready to enjoy snack time magic!
How to Serve No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Bars Recipe
Garnishes
While the REESE’S MINIS on top are fantastic, you can make your bars even more festive by adding a light dusting of crushed peanuts or a sprinkle of sea salt. These touches can enhance textures and bring out the peanut butter flavor even more.
Side Dishes
Pair your bars with a cold glass of milk or a cup of hot coffee to balance their sweet richness perfectly. They also play wonderfully alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you want to elevate your dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, serve these bars on a decorative platter lined with parchment paper and make mini “peanut butter cup” bites by cutting bars into tiny squares. Wrapping individual pieces in colorful wax paper makes them perfect little party favors or lunchbox treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover bars keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are kept in a cool, dry place so the chocolate doesn’t melt and the bars maintain their wonderful texture.
Freezing
Want to stash some away for later? Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
Since these bars are best served chilled or at room temperature, reheating is not necessary. If you prefer a softer chocolate experience, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for a gooey, melty treat.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit more texture to your bars, which some people love. Just keep in mind it might make the mixture a little less smooth, but the flavor will be just as amazing.
What can I substitute for Rice Krispies cereal?
If you don’t have Rice Krispies on hand, other puffed rice cereals work well too. Just avoid cereals with too much added sugar or flavoring to keep the balance of tastes perfect.
Is it possible to make these bars nut-free?
Since peanut butter is a star ingredient here, replacing it can change the texture and flavor significantly. However, you can try using sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter to keep the nut-free status. The bars will still be delicious, just a bit different!
How long do these bars last once made?
When stored properly in an airtight container, these bars stay fresh and tasty for about 3 to 4 days at room temperature. After that, their texture may change, so enjoy them within that timeframe.
Can I add other mix-ins or toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of coconut flakes. Just don’t overload the mixture or it might affect the bars’ structure.
Final Thoughts
I am so excited for you to try this No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Bars Recipe because it truly ticks all the boxes for an easy, crowd-pleasing treat. It’s fast, flavorful, and all about that perfect harmony between peanut butter and chocolate with a crispy twist. Whether you’re making it for your family, a potluck, or a cozy night in, these bars will soon become one of your go-to recipes. Grab your ingredients and let the magic begin!
Print
No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
These No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Bars are a deliciously easy treat combining the perfect mix of crunchy Rice Krispies, creamy peanut butter, gooey marshmallows, and rich chocolate topped with Reese’s Minis. Ready in just 30 minutes with no oven required, they make a perfect sweet snack or dessert for peanut butter and chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 7 cups KELLOGG’s RICE KRISPIES cereal
- 10 ounces mini marshmallows
- 18 ounces peanut butter
- 1 stick (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter
Toppings
- 11.5 ounces chocolate morsels
- 7.6 ounces REESE’S MINIS
- 2 ounces REESE’S peanut butter (for drizzle)
Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a large bowl, add 7 cups of KELLOGG’s RICE KRISPIES cereal and set aside.
- Melt marshmallow mixture: In a medium bowl, combine mini marshmallows, 16 ounces of peanut butter, and 1 stick of unsalted butter. Microwave in 45-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
- Mix with cereal: Pour the melted peanut butter and marshmallow mixture over the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir thoroughly with a large spoon or your hands to combine evenly.
- Press mixture: Line a 13 x 9 inch pan with wax or parchment paper. Pour the cereal mixture into the pan, then firmly press it down evenly using your hands.
- Prepare chocolate topping: Place chocolate morsels in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and creamy.
- Top bars: Pour melted chocolate over the pressed cereal layer and spread evenly. Immediately sprinkle the 7.6 ounces of REESE’S MINIS over the chocolate.
- Add peanut butter drizzle: Melt remaining 2 ounces of peanut butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds until creamy. Transfer to a zippered bag and snip about 1/4 inch off one corner. Drizzle peanut butter over the chocolate layer.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the pan for at least 15 minutes or until firm. Once set, carefully cut into bars and serve.
Notes
- Use wax or parchment paper to easily lift the bars from the pan for clean cutting.
- Microwave times may vary; stir frequently to prevent burning when melting marshmallows and chocolate.
- For firmer bars, chill for longer than 15 minutes if desired.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Peanut butter should be at room temperature for easier melting and drizzling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes (including melting and assembly)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
