🥜🍫 Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips – A Fun, No-Bake Classic

Few treats are as nostalgic as Rice Krispie treats. They take us back to childhood kitchens, classroom parties, and sweet, sticky afternoons. Now, imagine them upgraded with peanut butter, chocolate chips, and colorful M&M’s. That’s exactly what these Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips deliver — a chewy, crunchy, chocolatey, and peanut-buttery snack that’s impossible to resist.

I still remember making these with my cousins during summer break. The kitchen would smell like a candy store — sweet corn syrup, roasted peanuts, and chocolate all mingling in the air. We’d argue over who got to stir the mixture and who got the first taste of the warm, gooey batter. Adding the M&M’s was always the best part: each bite was a surprise of color and chocolate. By the time the tray cooled, we’d all be sneaking pieces while pretending we were “just checking the firmness.”

What makes these treats so special is how quick and forgiving they are. There’s no oven involved, so they’re perfect for kids to help with. Yet, despite being simple, the combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and cereal creates a flavor and texture that feels indulgent and festive. Whether for a party, a school lunchbox, or a rainy-day snack, they are always a hit.

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🥜🍫 Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats with M&M’s and Chocolate Chips

Ingredients

1 cup peanut butter
1 cup light corn syrup or honey
1 cup sugar
5-6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
1/2 cup M&M’s (or more, to taste)

Instructions

In a saucepan, combine peanut butter, corn syrup (or honey), and sugar. Heat on medium, stirring until it just starts to bubble. Remove from heat.

Pour the peanut butter mixture over the Rice Krispies in a large bowl and stir until well coated.

Scoop mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Press into clusters or shape as desired.

Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips and M&M’s, pressing them lightly into the treats.

Let cool until firm, then enjoy!

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💡 Tips & Variations

Even though these treats are simple, a few tricks can make them truly spectacular:

• Mix-ins: Add chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or peanut butter chips for extra texture.

• Mini vs regular M&M’s: Mini M&M’s distribute more evenly and prevent large chocolate pockets in each bite.

• Honey alternative: Light corn syrup creates a slightly firmer treat, while honey adds natural sweetness and a hint of flavor.

• Shaping: Use a greased spoon or your hands (lightly buttered) to form clusters or press the mixture into a pan for bars.

• Chocolate drizzle: Melt a little extra chocolate and drizzle over the top once cooled for a candy-store feel.

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🍽️ Serving Ideas

These treats are versatile and fun for any occasion:

• Snack time: Perfect after school or as an afternoon pick-me-up.

• Birthday parties: Colorful M&M’s make them instantly festive.

• Lunchbox treats: Pack individually in wax paper for easy grab-and-go snacks.

• Holiday twist: Swap the M&M’s for seasonal colors — red and green for Christmas, orange and black for Halloween.

• Dessert platter: Pair with brownies, cookies, and fudge for a candy table everyone will love.

Pro tip: Serve them slightly chilled for firmer texture or at room temperature for softer, chewier bites.

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🧊 Storage & Shelf Life

These treats keep well if stored correctly:

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep away from humidity to maintain crispness.

• Refrigerator: Extends freshness up to 2 weeks; slightly firmer texture is ideal for shaping.

• Freezer: Freeze in individual portions, wrapped in wax paper or plastic wrap, for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but it may make the mixture slightly softer. Chill the mixture a bit longer before shaping.

2. Do I need to use M&M’s?
No! They’re optional. Chocolate chips alone are delicious, or you can try other candies like Reese’s Pieces.

3. Can I make these vegan?
Yes — use a plant-based peanut butter and substitute honey or corn syrup with agave or maple syrup.

4. How do I prevent sticking when shaping?
Grease your hands lightly with butter or cooking spray, or use a spoon to scoop and shape the clusters.