Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars

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If you’re on the hunt for a sweet, colorful treat that brings together the satisfying crunch of Rice Krispies, the creamy goodness of peanut butter, and the delightful pop of M&M’s, look no further! This recipe for Colorful M&M Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars has it all. A twist on the classic, these treats are as easy to make as they are to eat. Let’s dive in and make these addictive bars that will soon become your go-to snack or dessert for any occasion!

Introduction

Why Make Colorful M&M Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars?

This dish is a perfect blend of nostalgic flavors and fun colors, combining crispy rice cereal with the smooth richness of peanut butter and chocolate from both chocolate chips and M&M’s. It’s an easy, no-bake recipe that’s ideal for busy days, and each bar is a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Kids and adults alike love these bars, making them perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a sweet snack at home.

Ingredients for Colorful M&M Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars

To make these delicious Colorful M&M Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars, you’ll need:

• 4 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky, depending on your preference)
• 1 cup corn syrup
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup M&M’s, plus extra for topping

Optional substitutions:

• For a nut-free option, try sunflower seed butter or cookie butter in place of peanut butter.
• Replace corn syrup with honey or maple syrup for a slightly different flavor, though it may alter the texture slightly.

How to Make Colorful M&M Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Begin by lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure your bars don’t stick. Set it aside.

Step 2: Melt the Sugar and Corn Syrup

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the corn syrup and granulated sugar. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to bubble slightly. Avoid overcooking at this stage, as the mixture can become too hard.

Step 3: Mix in the Peanut Butter

Once the sugar mixture begins to bubble, remove it from heat. Quickly add the peanut butter, stirring until smooth and fully incorporated. This will create a rich, creamy base for your treats.

Step 4: Add the Rice Krispies Cereal

Pour the Rice Krispies cereal into the peanut butter mixture, and gently fold until each piece of cereal is evenly coated. Work quickly before the mixture cools and hardens.

Step 5: Spread and Press into the Pan

Transfer the coated cereal mixture into the prepared baking pan. Press it down evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips and M&M’s

Sprinkle chocolate chips and M&M’s over the top of the bars, pressing them gently into the mixture to ensure they stick.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool completely, either at room temperature or in the fridge for quicker setting. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve!

Helpful Tips for Colorful M&M Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars

• Work Quickly: Once the sugar and peanut butter mixture is combined with the cereal, work fast to transfer it into the baking pan before it hardens.
• Avoid Overheating: When melting the corn syrup and sugar, don’t let it boil vigorously, as it can harden the final bars too much.
• Custom Toppings: Feel free to add crushed nuts, mini marshmallows, or even drizzled caramel on top for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips for the Best Colorful M&M Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars

Best Cooking Techniques

• Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh marshmallows and cereal make a difference in texture. Stale ingredients can yield soggy or tough bars.
• Equipment Choice: Use a nonstick saucepan and spatula to avoid any sticking. A silicone spatula works well for even spreading and pressing.

Helpful Tricks

• Press Gently: Use wax paper or parchment over your hands to press the mixture down without it sticking to you.
• Cool Completely: Be sure to let the bars set fully before cutting for the best shape and ease in handling.

Serving Suggestions for Colorful M&M Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars

Serve your Colorful M&M Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars as a dessert, party treat, or fun after-school snack. Pair these bars with a glass of cold milk, hot cocoa, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. These bars also make fantastic edible gifts when wrapped individually in parchment paper.

Nutritional Information for Colorful M&M Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars

These bars offer a balance of carbohydrates for quick energy, some protein from peanut butter, and a delightful crunch from the Rice Krispies. Although they’re a sweet treat, you can enjoy them in moderation as a fun snack.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 210
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 3g
Sugars: 15g
Fiber: 1g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.

Storage and Leftovers for Colorful M&M Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars

To keep these treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the bars, but be aware that the chocolate topping may harden. For long-term storage, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they’ll keep well for up to two months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Colorful M&M Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars

Q1: Can I use other cereals besides Rice Krispies?
Yes! Feel free to use Cheerios or cornflakes as an alternative, though it may change the texture slightly.

Q2: How can I make these bars dairy-free?
Simply swap the chocolate chips with dairy-free chocolate and ensure the M&M’s are also dairy-free.

Q3: Can I use chunky peanut butter?
Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter adds a bit of extra crunch and texture.

Q4: Are there other candies I can use instead of M&M’s?
Yes, any small chocolate candies or colorful sprinkles can be a great addition to this recipe.

Related Recipes for Colorful M&M Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars Lovers

Looking for more fun and colorful treats? Check out these similar recipes on OptimalRecipes.com:

Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies

Apple Fritter Bites Recipe: Easy, Delicious & Quick Treat

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and sharing these Colorful M&M Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars as much as we do! They’re an easy and delicious treat that’s sure to become a family favorite. Give them a try, and let us know in the comments if you have any creative variations or additional toppings you enjoy. Happy snacking!

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