These Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats are a wholesome twist on the classic snack—made with just a handful of real-food ingredients like peanut butter, honey or maple syrup (can totally omit), and crispy rice cereal (or puffed rice cereal). Topped with a drizzle of coconut butter and sprinkles, they’re the perfect no-bake treat for toddlers, lunchboxes, or quick snacks—with no marshmallows, no refined sugar, and still lots of fun!
They are perfect for those moments when you need a quick, no-bake snack that feels like a treat but is secretly packed with nourishing ingredients. Prep for afternoon pick-me-ups, lunchboxes, make-ahead snacks for busy weeks, or even a fun addition to a toddler snack plate. We especially love them during the warmer months since they require zero oven time and can be prepped in minutes!
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Ingredients
These ingredients were chosen to keep the bars simple, nourishing, and toddler-approved. The peanut butter adds healthy fats and protein, honey or maple syrup brings some sweetness, and crispy rice cereal gives that classic crunch. Hemp hearts add a boost of omega-3s and fiber, while the coconut butter and sprinkles make them extra fun and kid-friendly—without needing any marshmallows or refined sugar!
- peanut butter (ideally natural and runny)
- honey or maple syrup (can omit)
- crispy rice cereal
- hemp hearts (use code TIFF10 for 10% off at Tiny Sprouts)
- coconut butter (optional for drizzling)
- sprinkles for added fun (optional)
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
- Step 1: Line a 8x8 or 9x9 baking dish with parchment paper. If the peanut butter isn't runny, then warm a saucepan over low heat, gently warm the peanut butter and honey/maple syrup until smooth and pourable (don’t boil!).
- Step 2: Stir in the hemp hearts and crispy rice cereal. Mix until evenly coated.
- Step 3: Pour mixture into the prepared dish and press down firmly into an even layer using a spatula or damp hands. Drizzle with melted coconut butter and add sprinkles, if using.
- Step 4: Place in the freezer or fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until firm.
Hint: Use runny, natural peanut butter for best mixing. If yours is thick, you can warm it slightly or add 1–2 teaspoon of coconut oil to help it melt smoothly.
Substitutions
These are naturally gluten-free, egg-free, and dairy-free! Here are some other substitutions if needed:
- peanut butter → use almond butter, cashew butter, or sunbutter
- honey/maple syrup → adjust amount or omit for under 2-yr-olds
- hemp hearts → swap for chia seeds, ground flax, or skip
- rice krispies → can use rolled oats or other cereal but I would drop the quantity to 2 cups instead of 3 cups
Variations
You can totally add different mix-ins or toppings if you want!
- chocolate drizzle – melt dark chocolate and drizzle over the top, can even add mini chocolate chips into the mix!
- berry boost – mix in freeze-dried strawberries or blueberries
- coconut crunch – add unsweetened shredded coconut into the mix
Equipment
You'll need mixing bowl, 8x8 or 9x9 baking dish, parchment paper, and knife for cutting into bars.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw for 5–10 minutes before serving
Room Temp: Okay for a lunchbox for a few hours, but may get soft if warm (leading to them being crumbly)
Tiff's Tip
For toddlers, slice into small bars or squares, or press into silicone molds for fun shapes! Let your little one help sprinkle the top before chilling—they’ll love it!
FAQ
Yes! Use sunflower seed butter as a nut-free swap.
Try adding a scoop of your favorite unflavored or vanilla protein powder (if you're not giving to little ones).
Yep! Any crispy rice cereal will work—just check for gluten-free or no added sugar options if needed.
Yes! The liquid sweetener helps them bind better, but you can add a little more nut butter to help with that.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Easy Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Bars
Equipment
- 9x9-inch baking dish
Ingredients
- ½ cup natural peanut butter runny, unsweetened works best
- 2 tablespoon honey or maple syrup adjust to taste
- 3 cups crispy rice cereal
- ¼ cup hemp hearts
- coconut butter for drizzle/topping
- naturally colored sprinkles optional, for fun
Instructions
- Line a 8x8 or 9x9 baking dish with parchment paper.
- If nut butter isn't runny, then warm in a saucepan with honey/maple syrup until smooth and pourable.
- Stir in the hemp hearts and crispy rice cereal. Mix until evenly coated.
- Pour mixture into the prepared dish and press down firmly into an even layer using a spatula or damp hands.
- Drizzle with melted coconut butter and add sprinkles, if using.
- Place in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until firm.
- Cut into 9 squares and enjoy!
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