Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats

Prep: 5 minCook: 10 min9 barsmediumAmerican
Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats with Marshmallow Swirl

These rice krispies treats combine the classic crispy cereal base with rich peanut butter and fluffy marshmallow swirl for an irresistible twist on the beloved childhood favorite. The melted peanut butter creates ribbons throughout while marshmallow fluff adds extra sweetness and texture. Perfect for lunch boxes, potlucks, or when you need a quick no-bake dessert that will please kids and adults alike. The key is gently folding rather than pressing to maintain that signature light, airy texture.

Ingredients

Yield: 9 bars
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
    vegan butter1:1vegandairy-free

    plant-based option

    Full guide →
  • 6 cups mini marshmallows
  • 6 cups rice krispies
    cocoa krispies1:1flavor

    chocolate variation

  • ½ cup creamy peanut butter, melted
    almond butter1:1nut-free removes:peanut

    similar nutty flavor

    Full guide →
  • ½ cup marshmallow fluff

Instructions

  1. 1

    Spray a 9x9 baking dish with cooking spray and set aside

  2. 2

    Heat the peanut butter in 30 second intervals until melted and liquid

  3. 3

    In a large pot, melt the butter and mini marshmallows together over medium-low heat

  4. 4

    Remove from heat once melted and stir in the rice krispies

  5. 5

    When rice krispies are mostly coated, drizzle the melted peanut butter over them

  6. 6

    Add the marshmallow fluff in dollops throughout the mixture

  7. 7

    Gently fold in the peanut butter and fluff until marbled throughout

  8. 8

    Pour mixture into prepared pan and spread evenly without pressing down

  9. 9

    Let cool for 1-2 hours before cutting

Tips

Tip 1

Avoid pressing the mixture down when spreading in the pan to prevent dense, hard treats

Tip 2

Melt peanut butter in short intervals to prevent overheating and seizing

Tip 3

Work quickly once marshmallows are melted as the mixture sets up fast

Good to Know

Storage

Store covered at room temperature for up to 1 week

Make Ahead

Can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored covered

Serve With

Serve at room temperature cut into squares

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't press mixture down to avoid dense texture

Watch

Work quickly once marshmallows melt to prevent setting

Watch

Don't overheat peanut butter to avoid seizing

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

unsalted butter
vegan butter1:1vegandairy-free

plant-based option

Full guide →

Nut-Free Alternatives

creamy peanut butter
almond butter1:1nut-free removes:peanut

similar nutty flavor

Full guide →

General Alternatives

rice krispies
cocoa krispies1:1flavor

chocolate variation

Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter works well and adds extra texture to the treats.

How long do these keep?

Store covered at room temperature for up to one week for best texture and flavor.

Can I freeze these treats?

Yes, wrap individual pieces and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.