Snicker’s Rice Krispies Treats combine the nostalgic crunch of cereal with the indulgent richness of caramel, chocolate, and peanuts. In just 20 minutes, you can create a dessert that’s irresistibly chewy, gooey, and perfectly balanced. The blend of textures—crispy, creamy, and nutty—makes every bite a delightful surprise. It’s a treat that feels both familiar and exciting, ideal for satisfying sweet cravings or impressing guests effortlessly.
These treats are a dream for anyone who loves the classic Snickers bar but craves a fun twist. The soft caramel melts into the crispy base, while the chocolate drizzle adds a smooth, decadent finish. Quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear, they’re the ultimate no-fuss dessert that delivers big on flavor and satisfaction.
What You’ll Need
- ¼ cup (2oz/57g) butter (unsalted or salted, depending on preference)
- 5 cups (10oz/285g) marshmallows (mini or regular)
- 5½ cups (8oz/236g) Rice Krispies cereal (or any puffed rice cereal)
- ½ cup (2 1/2oz/71g) salted peanuts (optional: substitute with unsalted or other nuts)
- 1 cup (7oz/210g) caramels, unwrapped (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 tablespoons milk (any type: whole, almond, or oat)
- 2 cups (12oz/340g) chocolate chips (milk, dark, or semi-sweet)
How to Make It
- Melt the butter and marshmallows: In a large microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, combine the butter and marshmallows. Microwave in 30-second intervals or heat over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally, until fully melted (about 2-3 minutes).
- Mix in the cereal: Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the melted mixture and stir until the cereal is evenly coated.
- Prepare the pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Transfer the cereal mixture into the pan and press it down evenly (avoid pressing too hard to keep it light and airy).
- Melt the caramels: In a medium bowl, combine the caramels and milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals or heat on the stove over medium heat, stirring until smooth and melted (about 2 minutes).
- Add the caramel layer: Pour the melted caramel evenly over the Rice Krispies layer. Sprinkle the salted peanuts on top.
- Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until smooth (about 90 seconds total).
- Finish with chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Set and serve: Let the chocolate set completely at room temperature. Once set, cut into squares and store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
Creative Topping Ideas to Elevate Your Treats
While this recipe already includes caramel, peanuts, and chocolate, you can get creative with additional toppings. Try drizzling melted white chocolate over the top for a marbled effect, or sprinkle crushed pretzels for a sweet-and-salty twist. For a festive touch, add colorful sprinkles or edible glitter before the chocolate sets.
Perfect Serving Suggestions for Any Occasion
These Snicker’s Rice Krispies Treats are perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a sweet snack. Cut them into bite-sized squares for easy sharing, or serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They also make great gifts when wrapped in cellophane and tied with a ribbon.
Storage Tips to Keep Your Treats Fresh
Store your treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you’re in a warmer climate, consider placing a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months—just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Bakers
To speed up the process, use pre-wrapped caramels and pre-chopped peanuts. You can also melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler on the stove while the caramel layer sets. If you’re short on time, skip the parchment paper and lightly grease the pan instead—just be sure to let the treats cool completely before cutting.
Common Questions Answered
Wondering if you can use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate? Absolutely! Dark chocolate adds a rich, slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness. Can you make these gluten-free? Yes, simply use a gluten-free Rice Krispies cereal. For a nut-free version, swap the peanuts for crushed graham crackers or omit them entirely.
Snicker’s Rice Krispies Treats
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter 2oz/57g
- 5 cups marshmallows 10oz/285g
- 5 1/2 cups Rice Krispies cereal 8oz/236g
- 1/2 cup salted peanuts 2 1/2oz/71g
- 1 cup caramels 7oz/210g, unwrapped
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups chocolate chips 12oz/340g
Instructions
- Melt your butter and marshmallows in a large bowl in the microwave or over medium low heat in a large sauce pan. This will take roughly 2-3 minutes.
- Stir together until marshmallows are completely melted.
- Pour in your Rice Krispies cereal and stir together until cereal is completely coated.
- Line a 9x13inch pan with parchment paper. Pour cereal into a and press down evenly. (Don’t squish too much!)
- Place the caramels in a medium sized bowl and pour over the milk. Melt in the microwave for roughly 2 minutes or until the caramels are melted. Also you can melt them in a pot on the stove over medium heat.
- Stir until caramel is melted and smooth.
- Pour caramel evenly over the top of Rice Krispies Treats. Sprinkle over the salted peanuts.
- Melt chocolate chips in the microwave in 30 second increments (for about 90 seconds total), stirring after each until smooth.
- Pour chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
- Let chocolate set completely and cut. Store at room temperature in an airtight container for 7 days.
