If you’re a fan of sweet treats that combine the delightful crunch of cereal with the creamy goodness of peanut butter, you’re in for a real treat. These Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Bars are not only incredibly easy to make but also packed with flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a special dessert at home, these bars are a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum satisfaction.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes these Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Bars unique is their delightful combination of textures and flavors. The creamy peanut butter and buttery marshmallows meld beautifully with the crispness of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups cereal, while the crunchy Reese’s Pieces add an extra element of fun. The contrast between the chewy bars and the crunchy candies creates a satisfying experience with every bite. Plus, they come together in less than 30 minutes, making them an ideal last-minute dessert!

Ingredient Rundown

To get started on these delicious bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 tablespoons butter: This is essential for adding richness and helping the marshmallows melt smoothly.
12 ounces miniature marshmallows: These provide the sweet, gooey base of the bars.
7 cups Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Cereal: The star of the show! This cereal gives the bars a delightful crunch while infusing them with peanut butter flavor.
1 (4-ounce) box Reese’s Pieces: These colorful candies add a burst of sweetness and crunch to each bite.

Prep & Cook Tools

Before diving into the recipe, gather the following tools to streamline your cooking process:

Large saucepan: For melting the marshmallows and butter together.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for mixing the ingredients without scratching your cookware.
9×13-inch baking dish: This is the ideal size for your bars, allowing for even thickness.
Parchment paper: Line the baking dish for easy removal and cleanup.

Directions: Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Begin by lining a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This will help you easily lift the bars out once they are set. Leave a little overhang on the sides for easy removal.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows

In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the 4 tablespoons of butter and the 12 ounces of miniature marshmallows. Stir continuously until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Be patient, as this can take a few minutes.

Step 3: Mix in the Cereal

Once the butter and marshmallows are well combined, remove the saucepan from heat. Immediately add the 7 cups of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups cereal to the mixture. Stir gently to coat the cereal evenly with the marshmallow mixture.

Step 4: Fold in the Reese’s Pieces

Gently fold in the 4-ounce box of Reese’s Pieces, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cereal mixture. The colorful candies will add a lovely pop and texture to your bars.

Step 5: Transfer to the Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased) to press the mixture evenly into the dish. Make sure to pack it down firmly, so the bars hold together well once set.

Step 6: Let Them Set

Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can place them in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process.

Step 7: Cut and Serve

Once the bars are set, lift them out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles, and enjoy your delicious Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Bars!

Year-Round Variations

These bars are incredibly versatile and can be adapted for various occasions. Here are some fun variations to try:

Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate chips and drizzle over the top of the bars for an extra layer of sweetness.
Nutty Twist: Add chopped peanuts or almond slices into the mixture for an added crunch and flavor.
Fruit Addition: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of tartness that balances the sweetness.
Different Cereals: Swap out the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups cereal for another favorite, like Cocoa Puffs or Fruity Pebbles, for a new flavor profile.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

When making Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Bars, it’s important to avoid a few common pitfalls:

Overheating the Marshmallows: If you heat the marshmallows too high or for too long, they can become too sticky and hard to work with. Stir constantly and keep the heat medium.
Not Packing the Mixture Firmly: If you don’t press the mixture down firmly into the baking dish, your bars may crumble when you cut them. Use a spatula or greased hands to pack it in tightly.
Cereal Sticking Together: If you let the marshmallow mixture cool too much before mixing in the cereal, the cereal may clump. Work quickly once the mixture is ready.

How to Store & Reheat

To keep your Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Bars fresh:

Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them.
Reheating: If you prefer warm bars, you can microwave a square for about 10-15 seconds to soften them slightly.

Common Qs About Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Bars

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Can I use other types of candy?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different candies like M&M’s, Skittles, or even chocolate chips to create your own unique twist on this recipe.

What if I can’t find Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups cereal?

If you can’t find the cereal, you can substitute it with another peanut butter-flavored cereal or even a simple rice cereal. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.

How do I know when the bars are set?

The bars will feel firm to the touch and will hold their shape when you cut into them. If they are still sticky and mushy, they may need more time to cool.

What to Make After This

Once you’ve enjoyed your Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Bars, consider trying out these delightful recipes:

The Takeaway

Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Bars are a delightful treat that brings together the best of peanut butter flavor, crunchy cereal, and sweet candies. They are incredibly easy to make, perfect for sharing, and can be customized to fit any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a party, a picnic, or just a cozy night in, these bars are sure to impress with their deliciousness. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in this sweet, crunchy, and oh-so-satisfying dessert!