If you are on the hunt for a treat that’s crunchy, nutty, and delightfully chewy all at once, this Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Picture crispy Rice Krispies mingling with salted peanuts and mini marshmallows, all hugged together by a luscious combination of melted almond bark and crunchy peanut butter. These cookies bring the nostalgic crispness of a cereal snack and the irresistible creaminess of peanut butter into one perfect bite that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients come together to create a harmonious blend of flavor, texture, and just the right touch of sweetness in your Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe.
- Almond bark (12 oz): This melts smoothly to bind your cookies while adding a creamy sweetness, available in white or chocolate.
- Crunchy peanut butter (½ cup): Adds a satisfyingly nutty texture and depth of flavor that complements the crisp cereal.
- Rice Krispies cereal (2 cups): Provides the iconic crisp crunch that makes these cookies addictive.
- Salted peanuts (1 cup): The salty crunch boosts flavor contrast, but feel free to use unsalted if preferred.
- Mini marshmallows (1 cup): Melt slightly into the almond bark mix adding a soft, chewy surprise in every bite.
- Optional sprinkles: Add a pop of color and festive flair, perfect for celebrations or just brightening up your cookie platter.
How to Make Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper to ensure your cookies don’t stick as they set. This simple prep step makes clean-up easier and helps your cookies release effortlessly once firm.
Step 2: Melt the Almond Bark
Break the almond bark into manageable pieces and melt it gently. You can microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between for a smooth melt, or use a double boiler by placing the bark in a heatproof bowl over simmering water—pick your favorite method for easy, lump-free almond bark.
Step 3: Combine Peanut Butter
Mix crunchy peanut butter into the melted almond bark until fully smooth and incorporated, creating a luscious base that will coat every other ingredient beautifully.
Step 4: Fold in Crunchy Goodies
Gently stir in Rice Krispies cereal, salted peanuts, and mini marshmallows. Make sure every morsel gets coated in that peanut butter almond bark mixture—the secret to perfectly cohesive cookies packed with texture.
Step 5: Shape Your Cookies
Use a spoon or small cookie scoop to drop dollops of the mixture onto the prepared sheet. You can leave them as mounds or press gently for a flatter cookie shape. If you love a little extra sparkle, sprinkle on some colorful sprinkles now for a festive touch.
Step 6: Let Them Set
Allow your cookies to cool and firm up at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. Be patient here—this waiting time helps the candy coating harden, giving you that satisfying snap when you bite in.
Step 7: Enjoy or Store
Once set, enjoy these delightful treats immediately or keep them fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They make a perfect anytime snack that’s easy to share and even easier to love.
How to Serve Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While the cookies look charming on their own, you can elevate their appeal by adding extra sprinkles or a light dusting of powdered sugar. Even a drizzle of melted chocolate adds an elegant, indulgent twist perfect for special occasions.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk or a rich cup of coffee for a satisfying snack break. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side turns them into a comforting dessert that everyone will rave about.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe on decorative platters lined with colorful paper doilies for a party-ready look, or stack them neatly in a jar tied with a ribbon for gift-giving that feels homemade and heartfelt.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These cookies store beautifully at room temperature in an airtight container. Keeping them sealed keeps their crispness intact and ensures they don’t absorb any unwelcome odors from the environment. They stay fresh and tasty for up to a week.
Freezing
To enjoy these cookies later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen cookies can last up to 2 months—just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge.
Reheating
Generally, these cookies are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature to enjoy their crisp chewiness. If you prefer them slightly warm, microwave for just 10-15 seconds on low power, but beware of melting the almond bark coating too much.
FAQs
Can I substitute almond bark with chocolate chips?
Yes, you can! Chocolate chips will work well but might not melt as smoothly as almond bark, so melt them gently and stir frequently. Using almond bark ensures a shinier finish and easier handling.
What if I’m allergic to peanuts?
You can replace crunchy peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini for a different but delicious nut-free flavor that still offers creamy texture and richness.
How do I make these cookies vegan?
Opt for dairy-free almond bark or vegan chocolate melts, use a plant-based peanut butter, and make sure the mini marshmallows are vegan-friendly. That way, everyone can enjoy this delightful Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe!
Can I use homemade Rice Krispies cereal?
While homemade flax or oat cereals can be fun to experiment with, the classic Rice Krispies offer the signature crunch and texture essential to this recipe’s charm.
Why do my cookies sometimes come out sticky?
This usually means they haven’t set long enough. Make sure to let them cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to an hour, allowing the almond bark and peanut butter mixture to harden properly.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is like inviting a bit of nostalgic joy into your kitchen, wrapped up in every crunchy, chewy, nutty bite. Whether you share them with friends or keep a stash for yourself, these cookies bring warmth and smiles with minimal fuss. So grab your ingredients and get ready to create a snack that’s as fun to make as it is delicious to eat!
Print
Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Rice Krispie Cookies combine the classic crunch of Rice Krispies cereal with the rich creaminess of melted almond bark and peanut butter, studded with salted peanuts and mini marshmallows for a delightful texture. Easy to prepare, these no-bake treats are perfect for a quick dessert or snack that requires minimal effort and no oven time.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 12 oz almond bark (white or chocolate)
- ½ cup crunchy peanut butter
Mix-ins
- 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup salted peanuts (or unsalted, if preferred)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Optional
- Sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent the cookies from sticking as they set, then set it aside.
- Melt the almond bark: Break the almond bark into pieces and melt it either in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each, or use a double boiler method on the stovetop by placing the bark in a heatproof bowl over simmering water until smooth.
- Combine with peanut butter: Stir the crunchy peanut butter into the melted almond bark until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Fold in dry ingredients: Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, salted peanuts, and mini marshmallows, ensuring that all components are evenly coated with the almond bark and peanut butter mixture.
- Form the cookies: Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Shape them into small mounds or press them slightly flat as preferred. Add sprinkles on top if desired.
- Let cookies set: Allow the cookies to cool and set at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour until they are firm and no longer sticky to the touch.
- Store or serve: Once set, enjoy the cookies immediately or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for freshness.
Notes
- You can use either white or chocolate almond bark depending on your flavor preference.
- If you prefer a different nut butter, creamy peanut butter will work but may alter texture slightly.
- If using unsalted peanuts, adjust salt in the recipe accordingly if desired.
- Adding sprinkles is optional, but they add a festive touch and visual appeal.
- Make sure to let cookies fully set at room temperature; refrigeration is not necessary and may cause condensation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
