If you are like me, you probably grew up eating those classic Rice Krispies treats. So good, right?
But over time, I started thinking. Is there a way to enjoy something like that, just… healthier? Not all sugar and marshmallows?
That’s when I came across these Make healthy chocolate & peanut butter rice krispies treats. Instead of the usual stuff, these bars use better ingredients and are more natural.
Let’s see what ingredients are needed at first, and then we will see how to make healthy chocolate and peanut butter rice krispies treats.
Ingredients For Healthy Chocolate & Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats
First, let’s talk about ingredients for the base layer. You don’t need anything expensive. Just get these-
- Rice cereal: You can choose Rice Krispies right away, but any crispy rice or puffed rice cereal works well. You should just make sure it doesn’t have a lot of added sugar.
Note: Kellogg’s Rice Krispies aren’t gluten-free. So, if you’re avoiding gluten, get a gluten-free crispy rice or puffed rice cereal.
- Next up is Peanut butter: This is what holds it all together, instead of marshmallows. It’s not just sticky, it’s good for you. You get some healthy fats, protein, vitamin E, and magnesium.
Note: If you don’t love peanuts or are allergic, you can swap it with almond butter, cashew butter, and sunflower seed butter.
- Sweeteners: Now for the sweetener, skip the corn syrup or refined sugar. Use something natural like maple syrup or honey. They’re sweet but not over the top. Plus, they’ve got some antioxidants and minerals in the mix.
- Vanilla Extract: We will add some pure vanilla extract. It will enrich the flavor of the treats.
Vegan?
Skip honey and go with maple syrup or another syrup that works for you.
- Salt: A small pinch will bring out the peanut butter taste and balance out the sweetness. But if your peanut butter’s already salted, you can skip it.
For the chocolate layer, you’ll need:
- Chocolate: You have options like Dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate. Milk chocolate or white chocolate is also good if you love a sweeter topping.
- Coconut Oil (for the chocolate): We will add a little bit of coconut oil when melting the chocolate. If you don’t have coconut oil, you can use butter too.
How to Make Healthy Chocolate and Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats
Get Your Pan Ready
Get an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. If you want thicker bars? Use a smaller pan, like 6×8.
If you are making more, just double the recipe and go with a 9×9 or even a 9×13 pan.
Apply Heat
In a small saucepan or a microwave-safe bowl, add your peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt (only if you need it).
Heat it. Low heat will be better if you’re using the stove. And if you’re using the microwave, go in short bursts like 20 to 30 seconds, and also stir after each round.
Once it’s smooth and fully mixed? You’re good to go to the next step.
Mix It All
Get your crispy rice cereal into a mixing bowl. If you want to throw in extras like seeds or cocoa powder? Go for it.
Now, pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the cereal. Use a silicone spatula or spoon to stir it all together. Gently.
You want everything coated, but you don’t want to crush the cereal.
Press It Down
Pour that mix into your lined baking pan. Press it down well. You can use a spoon, your hand (with parchment), or the bottom of a glass.
Make sure it’s packed tight and flat. Why? So it sticks together later when you cut it. You won’t want crumbly bars. right?
Refrigeration
Put the pan in the fridge and let that base layer firm up while you melt the chocolate. This option is optional, and you can skip it if you have a lot of time to spend to let it firm down naturally.
Melt the Chocolate
Again, grab a microwave-safe bowl. Take your chocolate chips (or pieces) and a little coconut oil. Microwave in short bursts, like 20 to 30 seconds. Stir between each one.
When it’s silky smooth, you’re done.
Add the Chocolate Layer
Pour the melted chocolate over your firm base. Spread it out nice and even. No need to rush, just smooth it over.
Serving
Once the chocolate hardens, lift the whole thing out of the pan. Use a sharp knife to cut it into squares. And that’s it. You can serve it.
How To Store Them To Keep Them Fresh?
If you have left over you can store them for the future. You can keep them in an airtight container to store them for a few days.
Another option is to keep them in the refrigerator: If you want to keep them for a longer time and keep the structure right, I would suggest going for the refrigeration option. They can stay fresh in the fridge for about 5 to 7 days or up to 2 weeks.
For longer storage, you should store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
FAQs
Are Rice Krispies a healthy treat?
The classic Rice Krispies isn’t healthy. They have marshmallows and lots of sugar. But you can make healthier versions by using peanut butter and natural sweeteners.
Can I add peanut butter to Rice Krispies treats?
Yes, you can add peanut butter to Rice Krispies treats. It holds everything together and also adds flavor and nutrients.
What can I use instead of butter in Rice Krispies treats?
You can use peanut butter, almond butter, and coconut oil.
Why do gym people eat Rice Krispies squares?
They are easy to digest and give a fast energy boost before or after workouts. That’s why gym people eat Rice Krispies.
Can you air fry Rice Krispies treats?
Not worth it. They don’t need cooking, just mix, press, and eat. The air fryer won’t help much here.
Concluding Words
I have always loved Rice Krispies treats. But now, I like making a healthier version. It’s simple, it tastes great. And I know what’s in it. Peanut butter and natural sweeteners make a big difference as well. I feel better eating them. And honestly, they are just as fun to make. You should try them as soon as possible. And if you have any questions, please let me know.
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