Equipment Needed
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or wax paper
- Small bowl (for powdered sugar)
Step-by-Step Instructions
We start by melting our sticky, sweet glue. In your large saucepan over the lowest heat setting, combine the peanut butter, butter, and the entire bag of mini marshmallows. Patience is key here—you want to melt them slowly to avoid scorching. Stir constantly with your wooden spoon. You’ll watch the marshmallows deflate and melt into the peanut butter and butter, creating a smooth, glossy, tan-colored lava. The smell is absolutely heavenly—like a peanut butter cup melting on the stove. Once everything is completely melted and smooth, remove the pot from the heat immediately. Stir in the vanilla extract and that important pinch of salt.
Now, we add the crunch. Pour the Rice Krispies cereal into a large mixing bowl. Carefully scrape the entire contents of your hot peanut butter-marshmallow mixture over the cereal. Working quickly with your spoon (and then I find clean hands work best), fold and stir until every single piece of cereal is thoroughly and evenly coated. You’ll hear the iconic snap, crackle, pop as you mix, which is part of the fun. The mixture will be very sticky and warm, but you should see no dry spots of cereal. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes to cool down slightly. This makes it safer and easier to handle, but don’t let it cool completely or it will harden in the bowl.
Next comes the rolling. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Place the powdered sugar in a small bowl. Lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray—this is a crucial step to prevent sticking. I learned this the hard way with my first batch; I had peanut butter mixture glued to my fingers like edible cement. Take a heaping tablespoon of the mixture and roll it firmly between your palms to form a tight, smooth ball, about 1 inch in diameter. Immediately roll the ball in the powdered sugar to give it a light, sweet dusting that also helps with handling. Place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining mixture, re-greasing your hands as needed.(See the next page below to continue…)