Healthy Peanut Butter Crispy Treats
Indulge in these delicious and guilt-free Healthy Peanut Butter Crispy Treats, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping your nutrition goals in check. This recipe features the classic combination of creamy peanut butter and crispy rice cereal, enhanced by the delightful sweetness of Kraft Jet-Puffed marshmallows. Not only are they lower in fat, but these treats are also incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. They make an excellent snack or dessert option for both kids and adults, offering a chewy, crispy, and satisfying texture. Enjoy them as a post-workout treat or a midday pick-me-up, knowing you’re treating yourself to something delicious yet wholesome.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
3 tablespoons (unsalted)
Vanilla extract
1 - 2 teaspoons (pure or imitation)
Kraft Jet-Puffed mini marshmallows
1 package (10 1/2 ounces) (mini size)
Reduced-fat peanut butter
1/2 cup (smooth or crunchy, as preferred)
Rice Krispies
5 cups (lightly crushed if desired)
Instructions
1
Begin by lightly spraying an 11 x 7 or 13 x 9-inch pan with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the bars from sticking.
2
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter along with the vanilla extract, stirring gently until combined. Take care not to brown the butter, as this can lead to dry bars.
3
Once the butter is melted, gradually add the Kraft Jet-Puffed mini marshmallows, stirring continuously until they are completely melted and smooth. Remove the saucepan from heat.
4
Immediately stir in the reduced-fat peanut butter into the melted marshmallow mixture until thoroughly combined and creamy.
5
Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the mixture incrementally, stirring gently until everything is evenly coated with the marshmallow-peanut butter mixture.
6
Using damp hands, evenly press the mixture into the prepared baking pan, ensuring an even thickness throughout.
7
Allow the mixture to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cut it into 24 pieces (2x2-inch squares) or adjust the size as desired. Enjoy your Healthy Peanut Butter Crispy Treats!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Healthy Peanut Butter Crispy Treats?
These are a wholesome twist on classic rice crispy treats, using reduced-fat peanut butter and vanilla for a delicious, lower-fat snack or dessert.
What ingredients do I need for this recipe?
You will need 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1-2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, one 10.5-ounce package of Kraft Jet-Puffed mini marshmallows, 1/2 cup of reduced-fat peanut butter, and 5 cups of Rice Krispies cereal.
Is this a no-bake recipe?
Yes, this is a no-bake recipe. You only need a stovetop to melt the butter and marshmallows.
Can I use regular peanut butter instead of reduced-fat?
Yes, you can use regular creamy or crunchy peanut butter if you prefer, though it will change the nutritional profile slightly.
What size pan should I use?
You should use an 11 x 7-inch or a 13 x 9-inch pan depending on how thick you want your treats to be.
How do I prevent the treats from sticking to the pan?
Lightly spray the pan with non-stick cooking spray before pressing the mixture into it.
Can I use a microwave to melt the ingredients?
While the recipe suggests a saucepan, you can use a microwave-safe bowl to melt the butter and marshmallows in 30-second increments, stirring in between.
How many treats does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 24 treats when cut into 2x2-inch squares.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, you can use either smooth or crunchy reduced-fat peanut butter based on your texture preference.
Why is my marshmallow mixture burning?
Ensure you are using low heat and stirring continuously. High heat can cause the sugar in the marshmallows to scorch.
How do I press the mixture into the pan without it sticking to my hands?
Use damp hands or a piece of wax paper to press the mixture evenly into the pan.
How long do the treats need to cool?
Allow them to cool completely at room temperature until they are firm enough to cut, usually about 30 to 60 minutes.
Are these treats kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the chewy, crispy texture and the familiar peanut butter flavor.
Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
Yes, you can stir in chocolate chips after the cereal is coated, or drizzle melted chocolate over the top once they are in the pan.
How should I store the leftovers?
Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two to three days for the best texture.
Can I freeze these treats?
Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper for up to 6 weeks.
What type of vanilla extract should I use?
You can use either pure or imitation vanilla extract depending on what you have available.
Can I substitute Rice Krispies with another cereal?
Yes, any puffed rice cereal or even cocoa-flavored rice cereal will work as a substitute.
Is it okay to use salted butter?
While unsalted is recommended for controlling sodium, salted butter works fine and adds a nice contrast to the sweetness.
Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini ones?
Yes, but mini marshmallows melt faster and more evenly. If using large ones, cut them into smaller pieces first.
Why are my treats hard or dry?
This usually happens if the butter was browned or if the marshmallows were overcooked on high heat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Rice Krispies brand cereal contains malt flavor which has gluten. To make this gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free puffed rice cereal.
Can I add protein powder to this recipe?
Yes, you can mix a scoop of protein powder into the melted marshmallow and peanut butter mixture before adding the cereal.
Should I refrigerate the treats to make them set faster?
You can, but room temperature cooling is preferred to maintain the ideal chewy texture. Refrigeration can sometimes make them too hard.
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, almond butter or any other nut butter will work as a 1:1 replacement for the peanut butter.
Are these treats low-fat?
By using reduced-fat peanut butter and a moderate amount of butter, these are lower in fat than many traditional dessert bars.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger pot and two pans or one very large sheet pan.
What is the best way to cut the treats?
Use a sharp, greased knife to cut the treats once they have completely cooled for clean edges.
Do I need to crush the Rice Krispies?
It is not necessary, but lightly crushing them can create a denser, more compact bar if that is your preference.
Is there a vegan alternative for the marshmallows?
Yes, you can use vegan marshmallows and a vegan butter substitute to make this recipe completely plant-based.