Extra Marshmallow Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Bars Recipe
Layers of creamy richness and gooey texture make each slice a crowd-pleasing delight.
Extra Marshmallow Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Bars
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s equal parts nostalgic and extraordinary, these Extra Marshmallow Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Bars deliver unbeatable gooeyness and rich layers of chocolate and peanut butter. A beloved twist on the classic cereal treat, this no-bake bar is sure to win hearts at potlucks, bake sales, or family nights. The secret? An extra helping of marshmallow, creamy peanut butter, and a luscious chocolate topping that makes every bite a celebration.
Ingredients
- Butter: Adds savory richness and helps melt the marshmallows smoothly.
- Mini Marshmallows: The secret to ultra-gooey layers; some melted, some left whole for texture.
- Creamy Peanut Butter: Blends seamlessly into the base for nutty depth.
- Vanilla Extract: Boosts flavor complexity.
- Rice Krispies Cereal: Crunchy backbone of every bar.
- Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips: Creates the decadent top layer.
- Heavy Cream: Ensures the chocolate topping stays soft and smooth.
- Kosher Salt (optional): Balances sweetness and accentuates flavor.
Ingredient Amounts
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 6 tablespoons |
| Mini Marshmallows | 9 cups, divided (6 cups melted, 3 cups folded in) |
| Creamy Peanut Butter | 1 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Rice Krispies Cereal | 7 cups |
| Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips | 2 cups |
| Heavy Cream | 1/4 cup |
| Kosher Salt (optional) | Pinch |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly coat with nonstick spray.
- Melt Butter & Marshmallows: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, melt butter over low heat. Add 6 cups of mini marshmallows, stirring constantly until completely melted.
- Add Peanut Butter & Vanilla: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in peanut butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and glossy.
- Combine with Cereal: Quickly fold in Rice Krispies cereal followed by the remaining 3 cups of unmelted marshmallows. Gently mix until distributed—this creates delightfully chewy pockets.
- Press & Cool: Tip the mixture into the prepared pan. With a spatula or greased hands, gently press into an even layer without smashing the texture.
- Make Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between rounds, until the chocolate is smooth and glossy.
- Finish & Set: Pour the chocolate over the bars, spreading evenly. Allow to set at room temperature or chill for about an hour before slicing.
Why Extra Marshmallow?
Unlike classic recipes, this version doubles the marshmallow—6 cups melted for a sticky base, and an additional 3 cups folded in for pillowy bites. The result is a treat that’s intensely soft, chewy, and distinctly gooey with visible pockets of whole marshmallow throughout.
- Extra marshmallows improve texture: soft, stretchy, and never dry.
- Whole unmelted marshmallows scattered through the mix provide playful bursts of chew.
- The bars stay fresh and delightful for days, making them perfect for make-ahead occasions.
The Peanut Butter & Chocolate Layer
This recipe introduces a balanced creamy peanut butter base that’s both nutty and savory, perfectly paired with a glossy semi-sweet chocolate topping. The peanut butter blends into the softened marshmallow for a satisfying richness, while the chocolate layer offers a decadent finish—it’s a match reminiscent of classic chocolate peanut butter candies.
- Peanut butter: Adds body and flavor to the base, transforming ordinary cereal treats into a gourmet snack.
- Chocolate topping: Soft and sliceable thanks to heavy cream, contrasts beautifully with the fluffy marshmallow base.
- Optional sprinkle of salt on the chocolate transports this bar from ‘kid treat’ to ‘grown-up dessert.’
Tips for Success
What others are reading
- Low & Slow: Always melt marshmallows and butter over low heat to avoid burning and maintain a soft, elastic texture.
- Mix Quickly: Work swiftly when folding cereal and additional marshmallows, as the mixture will set fast once off the heat.
- Don’t Squish! Press mixture gently into the pan to preserve the light, gooey structure rather than compacting into a dense block.
- Customize: Add mix-ins like chopped nuts, sprinkles, or even mini peanut butter cups to the top for added flair.
Serving Suggestions
Slice bars into squares or rectangles for easy sharing. Serve chilled for firmer chocolate or at room temperature for extra gooeyness. These treats are perfect for:
- Birthday parties
- Holiday bake sales
- Family movie nights
- Picnics
- Potlucks and gatherings
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, wrap bars individually in plastic and freeze for up to 1 month.
- Defrost bars fully before serving for best texture and flavor.
Customization Ideas
While these bars are arguably perfect as-is, you can further personalize them:
- Swirl in Nutella with the peanut butter for extra chocolate-hazelnut notes.
- Add chopped pretzels for a salty crunch.
- Sprinkle with mini M&Ms or colored sprinkles on top of the chocolate.
- Fold in toasted coconut with the cereal for added texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
| Original Ingredient | Possible Substitution | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Creamy Peanut Butter | Sunbutter, Almond Butter | Use for nut-free variations or new flavor profiles. |
| Rice Krispies Cereal | Any crispy rice cereal | Keep the shape and texture consistent. |
| Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips | Milk or dark chocolate chips | Adjust for sweeter or more intense chocolate flavor. |
| Heavy Cream | Half-and-half, coconut cream | For dairy-free or lighter options. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use marshmallow fluff instead of mini marshmallows?
Marshmallow fluff can be used to replace the melted portion of marshmallows, but you should still add mini marshmallows for the pockets of chewiness. The fluff will result in a slightly more spreadable and sticky base.
How do I keep my bars gooey and soft?
Always use fresh marshmallows, avoid overcooking, and store bars in an airtight container. Adding extra marshmallows (as in this recipe) achieves ultra-gooey texture.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, simply double all ingredient amounts and use two pans. Press the mixture into each pan evenly without compacting to preserve the soft texture.
Are these gluten-free?
Rice Krispies cereal contains malt flavoring and is not certified gluten-free. For gluten-free variation, use certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal.
What kind of peanut butter works best?
Creamy, shelf-stable peanut butter delivers smooth incorporation. Natural peanut butters with oil separation can affect texture and may require additional mixing.
Can I use chunky peanut butter?
Chunky peanut butter works, adding more texture, though the base may be slightly less smooth.
How do I make clean cuts through the bars?
For sharp edges, chill bars in the fridge for 30–60 minutes, then use a large, sharp knife lightly coated with nonstick spray or butter.
Nutrition Information
| Serving Size | Calories | Carbohydrates | Fat | Protein | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 bar | ~240 | 35g | 10g | 3g | 20g |
(Values are approximate; actual nutrition depends on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Why This Recipe Stands Out
- Extreme gooeyness from extra marshmallows, setting it apart from standard recipes.
- Luscious nutty-chocolate layer provides rich, bakery-style flavor at home.
- No oven required—all steps are stovetop or microwave, for fast assembly.
- Perfect for sharing: Slices cleanly, holds shape, stays soft for days.
Variations & Inspiration
- Swap peanut butter for cookie butter or Nutella for endlessly creative twists.
- Make s’mores bars by adding crushed graham crackers and mini marshmallows before pressing into the pan.
- Use holiday sprinkles on the chocolate topping for festive flair.
Helpful Tips for Busy Bakers
- Have all ingredients measured and ready before melting marshmallows to ensure a smooth workflow.
- Line baking pans with parchment for fast removal and cleaner slicing.
- Use a second spatula or wax paper to gently press bars into the pan for even thickness.
More Fun Rice Krispies Treats Ideas
- Nutella Krispie Treats – A swirl of chocolate hazelnut spread amps up flavor (see other Pioneer Woman recipes).
- Lucky Charms Bars – Substitute Lucky Charms for Rice Krispies and add marshmallows for a magical twist.
- Cookies & Cream Bars – Fold in chopped sandwich cookies for an extra layer of fun.
Share Your Creations!
Have you tried this recipe? Snap a photo and share it on social media with #RiceKrispiesGooeyBars. Let us know your favorite add-ins, twists, and toppings!
Rice Krispies Treats Troubleshooting Q&A
- My bars are hard: Overcooked marshmallows or compacted mixture creates a firm texture. Always cook low and press gently.
- Chocolate is grainy: Microwave chocolate and cream in short bursts, stirring well for smoothness. Avoid overheating.
- Bars crumble apart: Not enough marshmallow or incorrect ratios can cause crumbling. Follow measurements closely and add marshmallow for binding.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, these Extra Marshmallow Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Bars are simple yet impressive. Gooey, rich, and perfectly balanced, they offer everything you love about childhood treats—just boosted to the next level. Enjoy the endless variations, share with loved ones, and make every occasion a little sweeter.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11405/nutella-krispie-treats/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a46913349/lucky-charms-bars-recipe/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8LSfbs39MJE
- https://www.food.com/recipe/marshmallow-rice-crispy-treats-ree-drummond-pioneer-woman-516658
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a80086/rice-krispie-treats-3-ways/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a87069/extra-marshmallow-chocolate-peanut-butter-rice-krispies-bars/
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