Rice Krispie Treats

Rice Krispie Treats

Soft, chewy, and perfectly sweet, Rice Krispie Treats are a nostalgic no-bake dessert made with crispy rice cereal, gooey marshmallows, and buttery goodness. A quick and easy treat that’s perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or an anytime snack.

Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal

• 4 tbsp (1/2 stick) unsalted butter

• 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows (about 6 cups)

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

• Pinch of salt (optional, for flavor balance)

Instructions

1. Prepare Pan:

   • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Melt Butter:

   • In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter completely.

3. Add Marshmallows:

   • Add the marshmallows to the melted butter and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth.

4. Add Vanilla (Optional):

   • Stir in the vanilla extract and salt if using.

5. Mix in Cereal:

   • Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.

6. Transfer & Press:

   • Quickly transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.

   • Use a buttered spatula or wax paper to gently press the mixture evenly into the pan (don’t press too hard or they’ll be dense).

7. Cool & Slice:

   • Let cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing into squares.

Equipment

• Large pot

• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Parchment paper (optional)

Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Serving Size

• Makes about 12 squares

Rice Krispie Treats

Soft, chewy, and perfectly sweet, Rice Krispie Treats are a nostalgic no-bake dessert made with crispy rice cereal, gooey marshmallows, and buttery goodness. A quick and easy treat that’s perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or an anytime snack.

Print Recipe

Prep Time:10 minutes mins

Cook Time:5 minutes mins

Total Time:15 minutes mins

Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• 9x13-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper (optional)

Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 4 tbsp 1/2 stick unsalted butter
• 1 10 oz bag mini marshmallows (about 6 cups)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract optional
• Pinch of salt optional, for flavor balance

Instructions

• Prepare Pan:
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Melt Butter:
• In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter completely.
• Add Marshmallows:
• Add the marshmallows to the melted butter and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth.
• Add Vanilla (Optional):
• Stir in the vanilla extract and salt if using.
• Mix in Cereal:
• Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
• Transfer & Press:
• Quickly transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
• Use a buttered spatula or wax paper to gently press the mixture evenly into the pan (don’t press too hard or they’ll be dense).
• Cool & Slice:
• Let cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing into squares.

Servings: 12 squares

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini?
   Yes, but mini marshmallows melt faster and more evenly. If using large ones, cut them in half for quicker melting.

2. Can I make these in the microwave?
   Yes—melt butter and marshmallows in a large microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

3. How do I keep them soft?
   Avoid overcooking the marshmallow mixture and store them in an airtight container.

4. Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips?
   Yes, but add them after the mixture has cooled slightly so they don’t melt completely.

5. Can I use flavored marshmallows?
   Absolutely flavored marshmallows will change the taste and add a twist to the classic recipe.

6. Why are mine hard?
   They may have been pressed too firmly into the pan or the marshmallow mixture was cooked too long.

7. Can I make them dairy-free?
   Yes, use dairy-free butter or coconut oil and check that your marshmallows are vegan-friendly.

8. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes—just use a larger pan or make in batches so they’re easy to mix.

9. Can I color the marshmallow mixture?
   Yes, add a few drops of food coloring after melting the marshmallows for themed treats.

10. Do they freeze well?
    Yes, but they’re best eaten fresh since freezing can change the texture slightly.

How To Store Rice Krispie Treats

• Room Temperature:
  Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.

• Refrigerator:
  Not recommended it can make them hard. If you must refrigerate, wrap them well to retain moisture.

• Freezer:
  Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Store for up to 6 weeks.
  Thaw at room temperature before eating.

• Extra Tip:
  Adding a slice of bread to the container can help keep them soft longer (replace the bread daily).