- Quick and easy no-bake dessert.
- Made with simple ingredients.
- Soft, chewy texture with a satisfying crunch.
- Colorful M&M’s make them perfect for celebrations.
- Ready to prepare in just 15 minutes.
- Easy to customize for different holidays.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Rice Krispies Treats
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 10 ounces mini marshmallows
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup M&M’s chocolate candies
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings
- Extra M&M’s
- Melted chocolate
- Colorful sprinkles
- Mini chocolate chips
Directions
- Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over low heat.
- Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Add the Rice Krispies cereal and gently mix until evenly coated.
- Allow the mixture to cool for 1–2 minutes, then fold in most of the M&M’s.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press gently into an even layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining M&M’s over the top and press lightly.
- Let the treats set at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 16–20 squares
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 5 minutes
- Setting time: 30 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 45 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips or a chocolate drizzle.
- Peanut Butter: Stir peanut butter into the melted marshmallow mixture.
- Holiday Treats: Use seasonal M&M’s for Christmas, Easter, or Halloween.
- Birthday Treats: Add rainbow sprinkles for extra color.
- Cookies and Cream: Mix in crushed chocolate sandwich cookies.
- Salted Chocolate: Sprinkle a little flaky sea salt over the finished treats.
Storage/Reheating
Store M&M Rice Krispies Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped treats for up to 6 weeks. Thaw at room temperature before serving. Refrigeration is not recommended because it can make the treats firm. Reheating is unnecessary.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes. Regular marshmallows work just as well when measured by weight.
2. Why are my Rice Krispies treats hard?
Overheating the marshmallows or pressing the mixture too firmly into the pan can make the treats hard.
3. Can I make these treats ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare them a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.
4. Can I use different M&M flavors?
Absolutely. Peanut, peanut butter, or crispy M&M’s can add different flavors and textures.
5. How do I prevent M&M’s from melting?
Allow the cereal mixture to cool slightly before folding in the candies.
6. Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes. Mini chocolate chips make a delicious addition.
7. Can I make these treats gluten-free?
Yes. Use certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal and check that the other ingredients meet your dietary needs.
8. How do I cut clean squares?
Use a sharp knife lightly coated with butter or cooking spray.
9. Can I freeze M&M Rice Krispies Treats?
Yes. Wrap them individually and freeze for up to 6 weeks.
10. Do these treats need refrigeration?
No. They are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Conclusion
M&M Rice Krispies Treats are a fun, colorful, and delicious twist on a classic no-bake dessert. With chewy marshmallows, crispy cereal, and chocolate candies, these easy treats are perfect for parties, holidays, or everyday snacking.
