Healthy Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

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DISCLAIMER: This post was developed in sponsored partnership with Peanut Bureau of Canada, however, as always, all opinions are genuine.

Medically reviewed by Abbey Sharp, Registered Dietitian (RD), BASc.

These healthy peanut butter rice krispies with chocolate are the perfect after school snack. Gluten-free, vegan and marshmallow-free!

A stack of peanut butter rice krispies with chocolate drizzle.

I don’t care how old I get, sometimes I still crave those iconic rice krispie treats. When I was a kid, my mom used to make them with us because they were easy, cheap and always well received. And as much as I would just love to tuck into a big pan of melted marshmallows, rice cereal and butter, we all know that’s just asking for a sugar crash.

Why This Recipe Works
Key Ingredients
How To Make This Recipe
Expert Tips
Recipe FAQs
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Why This Recipe Works

If you still need convincing to make these peanut butter rice krispies, listen up.

100% vegan, with no marshmallows
Nutrient dense additions
Easy to prepare
Kid and adult approved

Key Ingredients

Brown Rice Cereal – Brand name Rice Krispies actually aren’t gluten-free because they contain maltodextrin. So I chose a brown rice puffed rice cereal that was gluten-free, which also added a touch of fibre.

Oats – Adding some whole grain oats adds some heartiness and fibre to this recipe. I recommend choosing quick or minute oats so they blend into the bars easily.

Maple syrup – This is key for sweetness and keeping things sticky. You can swap it for honey if you’re not vegan.

Peanut butter – Any nut butter works as long as it’s the natural, runny kind. If you’re using a stiffer peanut butter, you can try warming it up so it’s softer.

How To Make This Recipe

A hand holding a peanut butter rice krispie with chocolate.

Step 1: In a large bowl mix together the cereal, oats, flax and cacao nibs.

Step 2: Grease a 9×13″ pan with nonstick cooking spray or oil.

Step 3: In a small pan, heat the maple syrup until it begins to gently bubble. Take it off the heat and stir in the peanut butter until fully melted. Pour it into the bowl with the cereal and stir until well coated.

Step 4: Press the mixture into the baking pan, making sure to pack it in tightly. Allow to cool completely in the fridge.

Step 5: Meanwhile, melt the chocolate in the microwave on 50% power in 30 second increments until fully melted and smooth. Using a spoon or fork, drizzle the chocolate across the bars.

Step 6: Cut into 16 squares using a serrated knife and enjoy.

A white baking dish with rice krispie with two slices taken out.

Expert Tips

These peanut butter rice krispies with chocolate are pretty customizable. You can switch up the add-ins, use a different nut butter, or add a white chocolate drizzle instead. Get your kids involved- this is an easy, hands-on recipe that they will love! It may be a bit messy, but it’s fun.

Recipe FAQs

Are Rice Krispies gluten-free?

Rice is a naturally gluten-free grain, but the Rice Krispies brand name contains maltodextrin. Look for a certified gluten-free puffed rice cereal if you have Celiac disease.

Is there a nut-free version of this recipe?

I haven’t tested it, but I think tahini or a runny seed butter would work too. This would change the flavour, so choose a seed butter you like.

A white plate with a stack of rice cereal treats.

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Have you tried these healthy peanut butter rice krispies with chocolate? Leave me a comment below about what nutritious ingredients you would try adding into your squares!