Tasty Rice Krispie Treats

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rice Krispie Treats are incredibly easy to make and come together in just minutes. They require no baking, making them ideal for hot days or quick desserts. With their satisfying crunch and rich buttery flavor, they’re a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, they’re endlessly customizable with fun mix-ins and flavors.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter
• Mini marshmallows
• Vanilla extract (optional)
• Salt (optional, enhances flavor)
• Rice Krispies cereal (or any crisped rice cereal)
• Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, sprinkles, peanut butter, or candies

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly until they are completely melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, if using.
4. Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, mixing until all of the cereal is evenly coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch pan or one lined with parchment paper.
6. Press the mixture evenly into the pan using a buttered spatula or wax paper. Avoid pressing too hard to keep the treats soft and chewy.
7. Let the treats cool completely at room temperature, then cut into squares and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 12–16 bars, depending on how they are cut.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cool time: 30–40 minutes
Total time: 40–50 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top or mix chocolate chips into the warm mixture.
• Peanut Butter: Stir in a few tablespoons of peanut butter for a nutty flavor.
• Salted Caramel: Add caramel bits and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top.
• Colorful Fun: Mix in colorful sprinkles or candy-coated chocolates for a festive twist.
• Cocoa Cereal: Use chocolate-flavored crisped rice cereal for an extra chocolaty treat.

Storage/Reheating

Store Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them soft, place a piece of wax paper between layers and seal tightly. Avoid refrigerating, as it can make them too hard. These treats do not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini?

Yes, just chop them into smaller pieces or melt them as-is, adjusting quantity if needed.

Why are my treats too hard?

Overheating the marshmallows or pressing the mixture too firmly into the pan can make the bars too dense or hard.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, they stay fresh for a few days if stored properly in an airtight container.

Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten-free?

Use a certified gluten-free rice cereal and marshmallows to ensure the recipe is gluten-free.

Can I freeze Rice Krispie Treats?

Yes, wrap them tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I add food coloring?

Yes, add food coloring to the melted marshmallow mixture before adding the cereal for themed or holiday treats.

Can I use marshmallow fluff instead of marshmallows?

Yes, though the texture may be slightly different, it still works for binding and sweetness.

What’s the best way to cut them cleanly?

Use a sharp knife greased with butter or cooking spray for clean cuts.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, but the flavor won’t be as rich and buttery as with real butter.

How do I make them extra gooey?

Use more marshmallows and slightly less cereal for a softer, gooier result.

Conclusion

Rice Krispie Treats are a quick, simple, and nostalgic dessert that never goes out of style. With just a few ingredients and endless ways to customize them, they’re perfect for any occasion—from lunchboxes to holiday parties. Once you make them at home, you’ll see why they’ve remained a favorite for generations.

Tasty Rice Krispie Treats

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Rice Krispie Treats are classic no-bake dessert bars made with crisped rice cereal, melted marshmallows, and butter. They’re chewy, sweet, and perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 40–50 minutes
• Yield: 12–16 bars
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 10 oz mini marshmallows (about 6 cups)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• Pinch of salt (optional)
• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal (or other crisped rice cereal)
• Optional: chocolate chips, sprinkles, peanut butter, or candies for mix-ins

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Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt if using.
4. Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, mixing until evenly coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch pan.
6. Press evenly using a buttered spatula or wax paper, but do not press too hard.
7. Let cool completely at room temperature before cutting into squares and serving.

Notes

• Don’t overheat the marshmallows to keep the treats soft.
• Use a buttered spatula or wax paper to avoid sticking when pressing into the pan.
• Customize with chocolate chips, sprinkles, or peanut butter for variety.
• Store tightly sealed to prevent them from drying out.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (1/16 of pan)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 10mg