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–+ servings
Frosted Rice Krispie Bars
Frosted Rice Krispie Bars are a nostalgic twist on the classic cereal treat, combining peanut butter richness with a smooth caramel and chocolate topping. Popular in mid-century American kitchens, these bars elevate traditional marshmallow cereal squares by using light syrup and sugar for structure and peanut butter for depth. The addition of melted caramel and chocolate chips creates a soft, fudgy frosting layer that firms up beautifully in the refrigerator. Cut into generous squares, they’re ideal for potlucks, bake sales, and holiday trays—offering the perfect balance of chewy, crunchy, sweet, and creamy in every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 40
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup light corn syrup
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup peanut butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • 6 oz caramel chips
  • 6 oz chocolate chips
  • 1 drop lemon extract

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

  • Butter a 9x13-inch baking pan. Set aside.

Step 2: Heat Syrup Mixture

  • In a saucepan, combine light syrup and sugar.
  • Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Step 3: Add Peanut Butter & Vanilla

  • Remove from heat.
  • Stir in peanut butter and vanilla until smooth.

Step 4: Add Cereal

  • Pour mixture over Rice Krispies in a large bowl.
  • Mix well until evenly coated.

Step 5: Press into Pan

  • Transfer mixture to buttered pan.
  • Press firmly using a buttered spatula or hands.

Step 6: Melt Frosting

  • In a saucepan over low heat, melt caramel chips and chocolate chips.
  • Add 1 drop lemon extract and stir until smooth.

Step 7: Frost the Bars

  • Spread melted mixture evenly over cereal base.

Step 8: Chill

  • Refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour.

Step 9: Slice

  • Cut into 40 pieces and serve.

Tips

  • Use only caramel chips for a stronger caramel flavor.
  • Swap peanut butter for almond butter.
  • Add chopped peanuts for extra crunch.
  • Sprinkle flaky sea salt over frosting before chilling.
  • Make a triple batch for large gatherings.
  • Use dark chocolate chips for richer flavor.
  • Press mixture evenly for clean cuts.
  • Store chilled for firmer texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 3gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 85mgPotassium: 95mgFiber: 1gSugar: 14gVitamin A: 15IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg
Keyword caramel frosting, cereal bars, no bake dessert, nostalgic treat, peanut butter bars, potluck favorite, vintage dessert
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