Healthier Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats (Vegan-Friendly)

I love a treat, but I also want it to have some staying power! These Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats come together in 10 minutes flat — no baking, no fancy equipment, and totally customizable. Plus, they’re more blood sugar friendly than traditional marshmallow treats, with lower sugar AND added healthy fats from the peanut butter.

They’re naturally gluten-free, easily vegan, and way more satisfying than the classic version thanks to creamy peanut butter for flavor and staying power. Perfect for school lunches, post-nap snacks, or a little something sweet after dinner.

Ingredients (makes 8 servings)

• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (use vegan butter if needed)
• 4 oz mini marshmallows (use vegan marshmallows if needed)
• 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 3 cups rice crisp cereal (I used brown rice crisp cereal)
• Optional: 2 oz chocolate chips + 1/2 tsp vegetable oil, for drizzle or topping

Instructions

1. Melt butter and marshmallows together in a large saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth.
2. Add peanut butter and stir until fully combined.
3. Remove from heat, then fold in the rice cereal until well coated.
4. Press mixture firmly into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan.
5. Optional chocolate topping: melt chocolate chips with oil, drizzle or spread over the top, and let set before slicing.
6. Cool for 30 minutes before cutting into 8 squares.

Healthier Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats (Vegan-Friendly)

These 5-ingredient Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are chewy, crunchy, and ready in 10 minutes! Perfect for a quick, no-bake snack or dessert.

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Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course: Dessert

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter use vegan butter if needed
• 4 oz mini marshmallows use vegan marshmallows if needed
• 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 3 cups rice crisp cereal I used brown rice crisp cereal
• Optional: 2 oz chocolate chips + 1/2 tsp vegetable oil for drizzle or topping

Method

 

1. Melt butter and marshmallows together in a large saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth.
2. Add peanut butter and stir until fully combined.
3. Remove from heat, then fold in the rice cereal until well coated.
4. Press mixture firmly into a parchment-lined or greased 8×8-inch pan.
5. Optional chocolate topping: melt chocolate chips with oil, drizzle or spread over the top, and let set before slicing.
6. Cool for 30 minutes before cutting into 8 squares.

Notes

• Make it vegan: Use dairy-free butter and vegan marshmallows.
• Add crunch: Stir in crushed peanuts or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
• For a protein boost: Use high-protein cereal or add 1-2 Tbsp hemp hearts to the mixture.

Nutrition info (per serving, 8 servings):

~165 calories, 3.5 g protein, 7.6 g fat (≈2.2 g saturated), 22 g carbs (≈0.5 g fiber, 9 g sugar)

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! They keep well for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.

Can I freeze Rice Krispie treats?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly in parchment or plastic wrap, then freeze up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes — just make sure to stir it well before measuring. If it’s very runny, chill the mixture briefly before pressing it into the pan.

More Healthy Snacks & Treats You’ll Love

• No-Bake Coconut Chocolate Hazelnut Energy Bites
• 5-Ingredient Banana Bread Mini Muffins (Flourless & Gluten-Free)

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