Peanut Butter Crunch Hearts

Name: Peanut Butter Crunch Hearts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 hearts
Ingredients: 2 cups crispy rice cereal; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup chocolate chips (optional for drizzling)

Highlighted under: Artisan Bakery Recipes

I absolutely love making Peanut Butter Crunch Hearts, especially when I crave that perfect balance of sweet and salty in a treat. The delightful combination of creamy peanut butter and crunchy rice cereal always takes me back to my childhood. They are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for any occasion or just a sweet indulgence at home. These little bites are not only delicious but also bring a little bit of joy whenever I share them with friends and family. You won't be able to resist their charm!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:50:27.707Z

I remember the first time I made these Peanut Butter Crunch Hearts; they were for a friend's birthday party, and they quickly became the favorite sweet treat of the day. The combination of creamy peanut butter and crispy rice cereal creates a fantastic texture that everyone loves. I learned that pressing the mixture into heart-shaped molds not only makes them festive but also ensures they hold their shape perfectly.

As I experimented with the recipe, I discovered that adding a touch of vanilla extract gives an extra layer of flavor that enhances the peanut butter. Plus, don't skip the step of letting them cool completely—this makes all the difference in achieving that perfect crunch. Each bite bursts with delightful flavors that truly make this treat special!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The irresistible crunch of crispy rice cereal paired with creamy peanut butter.
Perfect for sharing on special occasions or keeping as a homemade treat.
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings or mix-ins.

      

Key Ingredient Insights

The creamy peanut butter is the star of this recipe, providing rich flavor and cohesiveness to the mixture. It helps bind the crispy rice cereal together while imparting that quintessential nutty taste. For a healthier twist, consider using natural peanut butter. It has less sugar and no hydrogenated oils, though it may alter the texture slightly. Just ensure it’s well-stirred before measuring to avoid any separation.

Powdered sugar plays a crucial role as well, giving sweetness without the gritty texture of granulated sugar. It helps the mixture firm up when chilled, making it easy to shape into hearts. If you need a sugar alternative, you can substitute it with powdered erythritol or coconut sugar, but keep in mind that the texture and sweetness may vary slightly.

Mastering the Heart Shape

When shaping the hearts, it's important to pack the mixture tightly into the molds. If it’s too loose, the hearts may crumble when you try to remove them. Using silicone molds can make removal easier, but if you’re using metal cookie cutters, line them with parchment paper to help release the shape after chilling. Press down firmly with the back of a spoon to ensure they hold together.

Chilling the hearts in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes is essential. This step allows the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a firmer texture that makes them easier to handle. If you find your mixture is too soft after combining, you can speed up the chilling process by placing them in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes instead.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delectable treats:

For the Peanut Butter Crunch Hearts

2 cups crispy rice cereal
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chocolate chips (optional for drizzling)

Make sure to have these ingredients ready before you start!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delightful treat:

Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.

Add the Cereal

Gently fold in the crispy rice cereal until it is thoroughly coated with the peanut butter mixture. Be careful not to crush the cereal.

Shape the Hearts

Press the mixture into heart-shaped molds or cookie cutters lined with parchment paper. Make sure to pack it tightly for best results.

Chill the Hearts

Refrigerate the shaped hearts for at least 20 minutes until set and firm.

Finish and Serve

If desired, melt the chocolate chips and drizzle over the hearts before serving. Enjoy your delightful Peanut Butter Crunch Hearts!

Now you can enjoy your homemade Peanut Butter Crunch Hearts!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding crushed nuts or sprinkles on top before chilling them.

Storage Tips

These Peanut Butter Crunch Hearts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you live in a particularly warm climate, refrigerating them may help maintain their shape and texture. They can also be frozen for longer storage; simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They should keep well for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy frozen hearts, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving. This helps prevent them from becoming too soft but allows the flavors to fully develop upon warming slightly. If you're serving them for a gathering, you can prepare them a few days in advance and keep them frozen until needed.

Creative Variations

Feel free to get creative with toppings! You can add a sprinkle of sea salt over the melted chocolate drizzle for a sweet-salty punch or even use chopped nuts for added texture. Mini marshmallows or dried fruit can also be folded into the mixture to give these treats a fun twist and elevate their flavor profile.

For a seasonal theme, consider using food coloring in your chocolate drizzle to match holidays or celebrations. Red and pink for Valentine's Day, or even festive green and red for Christmas can make these hearts extra special. Additionally, try using different nut butters like almond or cashew for a unique flavor; just keep in mind that this may slightly change the final taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but keep in mind that natural peanut butter may be more runny, affecting the texture.

→ How should I store the Peanut Butter Crunch Hearts?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

→ Can I freeze these hearts?

Absolutely! They freeze well for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

→ What can I substitute for powdered sugar?

You can use a sugar substitute or make your own by blending granulated sugar until fine.