Christmas Peanut Butter Rice Cereal Squares Recipe

If you’re looking for a festive, fun, and utterly delicious treat this holiday season, you’re going to love this Christmas Peanut Butter Rice Cereal Squares Recipe. These no-bake squares combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the light crunch of crispy rice cereal, all topped off with cheerful holiday sprinkles or mini candies for that perfect Christmas vibe. Whether you’re making them for a party, a gift, or a cozy treat by the fireplace, this recipe hits every note of nostalgia and joy in each bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients together for this Christmas Peanut Butter Rice Cereal Squares Recipe is a breeze, but each plays a crucial role in ensuring the perfect texture and flavor. From the sticky sweetness to the satisfying crunch, these components blend beautifully to create a treat everyone will want to devour.

• 4 cups crispy rice cereal: Provides the classic airy crunch that’s the foundation of these squares.
• ½ cup peanut butter: Adds creamy richness and a savory balance to the sweetness.
• ½ cup honey or light corn syrup: Acts as the natural sweetener and sticky binder for the cereal.
• ¼ cup butter: Brings smoothness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• ½ cup holiday sprinkles or mini M&Ms (optional): Gives festive color and an extra burst of fun with every bite.

How to Make Christmas Peanut Butter Rice Cereal Squares Recipe

Step 1: Melt the buttery peanut butter mixture

Begin by gently heating the butter, peanut butter, and honey (or corn syrup) together over low heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is silky smooth and well combined, ensuring that the peanut butter melts thoroughly without burning. This warm, gooey base is the key to holding your squares together with just the right chewy texture.

Step 2: Fold in the crispy rice cereal

Once your buttery mixture is perfect, take the pan off the heat and immediately fold in the crispy rice cereal. The cereal needs to be coated evenly so that every bite has that iconic crunch paired with creamy sweetness. Be gentle but thorough, making sure no clumps form and each bit of cereal is perfectly coated.

Step 3: Press the mixture into a pan

Line an 8 by 8 inch pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it, then press the cereal mixture firmly into the pan. The pressure here is important — packing it in evenly ensures your squares will hold together nicely when cut. Skip pressing too hard though; we want to keep some lightness in the texture.

Step 4: Add festive toppings

Before chilling, sprinkle your holiday sprinkles or mini M&Ms over the top of the pressed mixture. This step not only makes these Rice Cereal Squares visually joyful and Christmas-ready but adds occasional pops of sweetness and texture that make the treat even more delightful.

Step 5: Chill and cut into squares

Pop the pan into the refrigerator for about an hour to allow the squares to set completely. Once firm, carefully lift the mixture out using the parchment paper and slice into 12 even squares. They’re now ready to enjoy or share with loved ones!

How to Serve Christmas Peanut Butter Rice Cereal Squares Recipe

Garnishes

While the sprinkles add plenty of festive flair, you can also try optional garnishes like a light drizzle of melted white chocolate, crushed candy canes for a minty crunch, or even a sprinkle of edible glitter to bring some holiday sparkle to your presentation.

Side Dishes

These versatile Christmas Peanut Butter Rice Cereal Squares pair wonderfully with simple sides like hot cocoa, spiced apple cider, or a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Their sweet, nutty flavor balances perfectly against warm, cozy beverages during chilly winter days.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the box by cutting the squares into festive shapes using cookie cutters — stars, Christmas trees, or gingerbread men. Wrapping individual squares in colorful cellophane or placing them in decorative tins turns them into charming homemade gifts that friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any uneaten squares fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. This makes them an excellent grab-and-go snack throughout the holiday week!

Freezing

To enjoy them longer, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Stored this way, these squares can last up to 3 months without losing their chewy texture or festive flavor.

Reheating

Since these are no-bake treats, they don’t require reheating. If you prefer a softer bite, simply let frozen squares thaw at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Absolutely! You can swap peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free, allergy-friendly version that still delivers great flavor and texture.

Is honey better than corn syrup in this recipe?

Honey offers a more natural flavor and slight floral notes, while corn syrup provides a neutral sweetness with a bit more chewiness in texture. Both work well — it’s all about your taste preference.

Can I add chocolate chips to the mixture?

Chocolate chips can be added, but only after removing the mixture from heat to prevent melting all the way through. Stir gently to avoid thinning your squares too much.

Why do I need to chill the squares before cutting?

Chilling helps the mixture set firmly so the squares hold their shape. Cutting them too soon may cause crumbling or sticking.

How long will these squares stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, they remain fresh for up to five days at room temperature, and even longer if refrigerated or frozen.

Final Thoughts

Making these Christmas Peanut Butter Rice Cereal Squares Recipe is one of those joyful kitchen adventures that light up the holiday spirit with every bite. They are quick, simple, and bring a nostalgic warmth that’s perfect for sharing or savoring quietly alongside a festive drink. I highly encourage you to give this recipe a try — it’s bound to become one of your cherished holiday classics!

Print