The kitchen is filled with the enticing aroma of simple pleasures, and as I slice into these Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats topped with luscious chocolate ganache, I can’t help but smile. Each bite is a nostalgic journey back to carefree childhood afternoons, where dessert was an adventure, not just a treat. This quick dessert brings a delightful twist to the classic Rice Krispie treat, offering an irresistible combo of creamy peanut butter and sweet butterscotch. Whether you’re seeking an easy no-bake treat for a gathering or just a sweet pick-me-up for yourself, these treats are bound to please. Plus, they’re perfect for making ahead and refrigerating for later enjoyment. What’s better than a delectable dessert that takes minimal time to whip up? Get ready to indulge; I can’t wait to share how easy it is to create this crowd-pleaser!

Why Are These Rice Krispies So Special?

Irresistible Combination: The rich blend of creamy peanut butter and sweet butterscotch chips creates a flavor you can’t resist.

No-Bake Convenience: Quick and easy, these treats require no baking, making them perfect for those busy days.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: They’re a guaranteed hit at gatherings, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Customizable Fun: Feel free to swap ingredients with options like almond butter or even chocolate chips to tailor the flavor.

Make-Ahead Wonder: Enjoy the ease of prepping these treats in advance—simply refrigerate for a sweet snack whenever cravings hit!

If you’re looking for more delicious options, try our Homemade Butter Chicken or a comforting Thai Peanut Chicken for dinner!

Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats Ingredients

For the Treats
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients; margarine can be substituted if needed.
• Mini/Regular Marshmallows – Provide structure and softness; mini marshmallows melt more quickly, ideal for this quick dessert.
• Creamy Peanut Butter – Brings delicious flavor and texture; almond butter is a great alternative for nut allergies.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; feel free to use vanilla bean paste instead for a gourmet touch.
• Fine Salt – Balances the sweetness beautifully; regular table salt works as a quick substitute.
• Puffed Rice Cereal – The star ingredient for that classic crunch; any puffed cereal can work in a pinch.
• Butterscotch Chips – Infuse that distinct sweet flavor; chocolate chips can double for a different take on these Rice Krispies!
• Mini Marshmallows (optional) – Add visual appeal and extra texture when folded in.

For the Chocolate Ganache
• Heavy Whipping Cream – Acts as the base for your silky ganache; half-and-half can lighten things up.
• Milk Chocolate Chips – Provides creamy sweetness for the ganache; dark chocolate offers a richer flavor contrast.
• Unsalted Butter (for ganache) – Ensures a glossy finish to your ganache; don’t skip this for the shine!
• Flaky Sea Salt – Just a sprinkle on top amplifies flavors and adds a crunchy finish to each bite.

This delightful recipe for Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispies is sure to bring joy and nostalgic memories with every bite. Prepare to wow your family and friends!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Prepare Chocolate Ganache
In a heatproof bowl, pour in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and heat it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes until it’s bubbling but not boiling. Once hot, mix in 2 cups of milk chocolate chips, stirring until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and a pinch of flaky sea salt, stirring until glossy.

Step 2: Prep the Pan
Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy removal later. This step is crucial for ensuring your Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats come out effortlessly, so take your time to get it right, creating a smooth surface for the treats to rest on.

Step 3: Melt Ingredients
In a large pot, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter along with 10 ounces of mini marshmallows over medium heat. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes, or until both the butter and marshmallows are completely melted and combined into a silky mixture. Make sure to keep the heat steady, preventing the mixture from burning as it transforms.

Step 4: Mix in Peanut Butter
Remove the pot from the heat and immediately stir in 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of fine salt. Mix thoroughly until the peanut butter is fully incorporated into the melted marshmallow mixture, creating a deliciously aromatic base filled with rich flavor.

Step 5: Combine Cereal
Gradually add in 6 cups of puffed rice cereal, folding gently to ensure each piece is coated evenly. This should take about 2-3 minutes; the goal is to mix slowly without crushing the cereal, allowing the peanut butter and marshmallow mixture to bind everything together cohesively.

Step 6: Add Butterscotch Chips
Fold in 1 cup of butterscotch chips and, if desired, 1/2 cup of mini marshmallows. Make sure to distribute the chips evenly throughout the mixture for a delightful sweet burst in every bite of your Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats.

Step 7: Fill the Pan
Transfer the mixture into the lined baking pan, pressing it down evenly with a spatula or your hands. Aim for an even thickness of about 1 inch across the pan, ensuring the mixture is firmly packed, which helps your treats hold together once they set.

Step 8: Top with Ganache
After your ganache has cooled slightly, pour it over the pressed Rice Krispie mixture, spreading it gently with a spatula to cover completely. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top to enhance the flavors. The glossy ganache will create an inviting finish for this scrumptious treat.

Step 9: Set and Cut
Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes, or until the ganache has set. Once firm, use the overhanging parchment paper to lift the entire dessert out of the pan. Cut into squares with a hot, wet knife for clean edges, making these Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krisopie Treats ready to serve!

Make Ahead Options

These Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats are perfect for meal prep, making your sweet Tooth a breeze! You can prepare the treat base up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps through Step 7, then store it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its delightful texture. The chocolate ganache can be whisked up to 3 days ahead and kept refrigerated in a sealed container—just warm it slightly before spreading over the cooled treats when ready to serve. Once you’re set to enjoy, simply top the Rice Krispie mixture with the ganache, sprinkle with flaky salt, and cut into squares for a quick sweet delight!

Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispies

Prepped Tools Ready: Prepare your workspace by having all tools and ingredients out to avoid any sticky situations while mixing.
Perfect Melt: Use mini marshmallows for easier melting. They help achieve the smooth consistency needed without clumps.
Heat Control: Avoid overheating marshmallows—stop heating as soon as they’re melted to prevent a grainy texture in your treats.
Gradual Mixing: Add the puffed rice cereal in increments. This ensures every piece is evenly coated in the sticky marshmallow mixture for the best flavor.
Cool First: Let the Rice Krispies cool completely before adding the chocolate ganache. This prevents the ganache from melting and ruining that gorgeous shiny topping.
Neat Cutting: For perfectly cut treats, use a hot, wet knife. It glides through the treats, leaving clean edges that look as good as they taste!

What to Serve with Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats

There’s nothing quite as delightful as pairing these indulgent treats with complementary flavors and textures that elevate every bite.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy ice cream contrasts beautifully with the chewy Rice Krispies, adding a luxurious touch to your dessert experience.
Fresh Berries: Ripe strawberries or blueberries bring a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
Chocolate Milkshake: A decadent chocolate milkshake makes for an irresistible pairing, amplifying the rich, sweet vibes of the butterscotch while adding a fun twist.
Crunchy Nuts: Chopped pecans or almonds add a satisfying crunch that enhances the treat’s texture. Mixing in some nuts provides a delightful surprise in each bite.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A warm caramel drizzle on top not only adds extra sweetness but also introduces a silky element that complements the chocolate ganache perfectly.
Hot Fudge Sauce: The warm fudgy sauce poured over a slice brings a gooey element that encapsulates the nostalgia of indulgent desserts.
Coffee or Espresso: A hot cup of coffee or espresso offers a bold flavor contrast to the sweetness of the treats, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
Chilled Lemonade: For a refreshing drink, chilled lemonade cuts through the sweetness, providing a zesty, vibrant sip that is perfect for sunny days.

These pairings will not only enhance your Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats but also create a memorable dessert experience for you and your loved ones!

How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispies

Airtight Container: Store your Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispies in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature to maintain their delightful texture.

Refrigerator: For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just ensure they are fully cooled before sealing to avoid excess moisture.

Freezer: Freeze for up to 6 weeks if you want to save some for later! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving. Enjoy that nostalgic crunch again!

Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispies Variations

Feel free to explore these creative twists on our classic Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats!

Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for a delicious allergen-friendly alternative. It maintains a creamy texture and adds a unique flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: After topping with ganache, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the top for an extra layer of indulgence. This heavenly addition makes each bite even more irresistible!
Fruit Add-Ins: Gently fold in dried cranberries or mini chocolate chips for added flavor and texture. This not only enhances the taste but also adds beautiful color to your treats.
Coconut Bliss: Incorporate sweetened shredded coconut into the rice cereal mixture for a tropical twist. The coconut adds a delightful chewiness that balances beautifully with the richness of peanut butter.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the melted marshmallow mixture for a sweet and spicy surprise. This variation is sure to awaken your taste buds!
Flavor Swap: Replace butterscotch chips with peanut butter chips or even white chocolate chips. These swaps offer new flavor profiles while keeping the creamy texture intact.
Brownie Bottom: For a fun twist, layer brownie batter into the bottom of the pan, then top it with the Rice Krispie mixture. This variation transforms the dessert into a sumptuous brownie treat!
Mint Chocolate: Substitute half of the peanut butter with mint-flavored spread and top with chocolate ganache for refreshing mint chocolate Rice Krispies. Perfect for mint lovers!

With these variations, your Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats can adapt to suit any taste. And if you’re ever in the mood for a hearty meal, don’t forget to check out our delightful recipe for Corn Chicken Rice or indulge in a comforting Pot Chicken Rice for dinner!

Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting ingredients for the Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose marshmallows that are fresh, as older ones can become hard and affect texture. Puffed rice cereal should be light and airy. Opt for creamy peanut butter without added sugar to maintain a balanced sweetness, and ensure butterscotch chips are quality for that rich, caramel flavor.

How should I store Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats, and how long will they last?
Store your treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Just make sure they are fully cooled before sealing to prevent moisture build-up. If stored properly, they’ll stay delicious!

Can I freeze Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to 6 weeks. When you want to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours or for a quick indulgence, use the microwave for a few seconds—just be careful not to overheat!

What if my mixture for the treats is too sticky or crumbly?
If your mixture turns out too sticky, you can add a bit more puffed rice cereal, about 1/2 cup at a time, folding gently until well coated. For crumbly treats, try warming the butter and marshmallow mixture slightly to help it better bind the cereal and add a touch more peanut butter to enhance the stickiness.

Are there any dietary considerations for Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats?
Yes! These treats contain peanuts, so they aren’t suitable for someone with nut allergies. You can substitute peanut butter with sunbutter or a nut-free alternative for those with dietary restrictions. Always double-check the ingredient labels for allergens and consider using dairy-free chocolate chips and alternatives for a vegan version!

Can pets eat Peanut Butter Butterscotch Rice Krispie Treats?
It’s best to avoid sharing these treats with your pets. The high sugar and fat content, along with chocolate, can be harmful to them. However, a small amount of unsweetened peanut butter is generally safe for dogs, but always consult with your veterinarian before sharing any human food with pets!