If you’re looking for a dessert that screams nostalgia and indulgence, these Chocolate Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares are your golden ticket. Think chewy, gooey, and chocolatey, with a touch of peanut butter richness that hits just the right note. Every bite is a playful mix of textures: soft marshmallows, crispy cereal, and smooth chocolate that melts in your mouth.

They’re perfect for birthdays, parties, holiday treats, or just because—you know, for when a snack craving hits and only something decadent will do. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer. Kids and adults alike will be sneaking squares before anyone else even gets a taste.

Recipe Origin

These treats are a twist on classic Rice Krispies squares, amped up with chocolate and peanut butter for that irresistible flavor combo. The addition of colorful mini marshmallows makes them festive and fun, reminiscent of childhood baking moments but with a grown-up, chocolatey twist.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Measuring cups
• Nonstick spray or parchment paper

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Why You’ll Love Chocolate Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares

This recipe is more than just sweet—it’s a multi-sensory delight and a total crowd-pleaser:

Versatile

Perfect for dessert tables, lunchbox treats, or a cozy night in with a movie.

Budget-Friendly

Uses simple pantry staples—no need for fancy or expensive ingredients.

Quick and Easy

Ready in under 30 minutes. Melt, mix, press, and chill—done!

Customizable

Swap colored marshmallows for classic white, or add nuts, chocolate chunks, or a drizzle of caramel.

Crowd-Pleasing

Chewy, chocolatey, peanut buttery, and full of fun colors—it’s impossible not to smile when biting into one of these.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Melt margarine and peanut butter slowly over low heat to prevent scorching.
• Stir continuously while melting chocolate to ensure smooth consistency.
• Don’t overmix the marshmallows—fold gently to keep them fluffy.
• Press the mixture evenly in the pan but avoid compacting too much; you want a light, airy texture.
• Chill for at least 30 minutes before cutting to ensure clean squares.

Ingredients in Chocolate Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

These simple ingredients combine to make a dessert that’s greater than the sum of its parts:

Margarine

Provides richness and helps bind the chocolate and peanut butter together.

Peanut Butter

Adds creamy, nutty depth that complements the chocolate perfectly.

Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips

Melts into gooey perfection and gives the squares that dreamy chocolate flavor.

Gluten-Free Crisp Rice Cereal

For crunch and texture contrast, giving every bite a satisfying crisp.

Coloured Mini Marshmallows

Soft, fluffy, and festive—they bring sweetness, chew, and a pop of color.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your gooey, chocolate-peanut butter masterpiece:

Melt the Base

In a large saucepan over low heat, melt margarine and peanut butter together until smooth. Stir continuously to prevent burning.

Add Chocolate

Once melted, stir in semi-sweet chocolate chips until fully combined and glossy.

Combine with Cereal

Remove from heat and fold in gluten-free crisp rice cereal until evenly coated with the chocolate-peanut butter mixture.

Fold in Marshmallows

Gently fold in colored mini marshmallows, being careful not to crush them.

Press into Pan

Prepare a 9×13-inch pan with nonstick spray or parchment paper. Transfer the mixture and press evenly into the pan using a spatula or your hands.

Chill and Set

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. This ensures clean, firm squares that hold together beautifully.

Cut and Serve

Slice into squares and serve! These treats are perfect for sharing—or sneaking a few before anyone notices.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: ~250
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares

These squares are flexible and fun—here’s how to enjoy them:

Classic Dessert

Serve on a platter for parties, picnics, or school events.

Snack Packs

Wrap individually for lunchboxes or on-the-go snacks.

Ice Cream Topping

Crumble over ice cream for an extra chocolate-peanut butter crunch.

With Hot Chocolate

Pair with a mug of warm cocoa for the ultimate cozy treat.

Gift Idea

Wrap in cellophane or festive boxes—perfect for neighbors, friends, or teachers.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can make these a day or two in advance and store in an airtight container.
• Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place for up to 5 days, or refrigerate if your kitchen is warm.
• Freezer Friendly: Yes! Freeze squares in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Variations to Try

• Nutty Boost: Add chopped peanuts, almonds, or cashews for extra crunch.
• Chocolate Lovers: Use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips.
• Holiday Colors: Swap mini marshmallows to match seasonal themes.
• Drizzle Fun: Top with white chocolate or caramel drizzle for extra flair.
• Vegan Option: Use dairy-free margarine, peanut butter, and chocolate chips.

Additional Tips

• Press gently when transferring to the pan—too hard and the squares will be dense.
• Fold marshmallows in at the end to keep them light and airy.
• Use a sharp knife for clean cuts; warm the blade slightly for easier slicing.
• Double the batch for parties or school events—they disappear fast!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use regular butter instead of margarine?

A1: Yes! Butter works perfectly, adding rich flavor.

Q2: Can I make these gluten-free?

A2: Absolutely—just use gluten-free crisp rice cereal.

Q3: Can I swap peanut butter for another nut butter?

A3: Yes—almond or cashew butter works, though flavor will vary slightly.

Q4: Can I use mini marshmallows in one color only?

A4: Of course! Single-color marshmallows are perfectly fine.

Q5: Can I melt everything in the microwave?

A5: Yes, but melt in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to avoid scorching.

Q6: Can I add extra chocolate on top?

A6: Definitely—drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a decadent finish.

Q7: How long do they stay fresh?

A7: Up to 5 days at room temperature, or longer in the fridge.

Q8: Can I freeze them?

A8: Yes! Freeze squares in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

Q9: Can I make mini versions?

A9: Absolutely—press the mixture into mini muffin tins for individual treats.

Q10: Can I add other mix-ins?

A10: Sure! Try chocolate chunks, sprinkles, or even dried fruit for variety.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares are the perfect mix of nostalgia, indulgence, and fun. Soft, chewy, chocolatey, peanut buttery, and colorful—they hit every dessert craving. Quick, easy, and endlessly customizable, they’re a must-make for parties, holidays, or simply treating yourself.

Next time you’re craving something sweet and chewy, grab your chocolate, peanut butter, cereal, and marshmallows—this recipe delivers the ultimate crowd-pleasing treat that’s just as fun to make as it is to eat.