Rice Krispie treats are a nostalgic favorite for many. This simple recipe yields soft, gooey marshmallow squares using just a few pantry staples. It’s quick to make and perfect for parties, school events, holidays, or an everyday dessert.
Classic Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
These chewy, crunchy squares are always a crowd-pleaser. They require no baking and only minimal equipment, so they’re ideal when you need a fuss-free dessert. You can easily customize them for holidays or events by adding a few drops of food coloring, folding in candies or sprinkles, or topping with melted chocolate. Wrapped in cellophane or placed in small gift boxes, they also make charming homemade gifts.
Ingredients You Will Need
- Unsalted butter – Melted with the marshmallows to create the sticky binder for the cereal.
- Marshmallows – Provide the gooey texture and sweetness. Use fresh marshmallows for best results.
- Rice Krispies cereal – The crispy rice cereal gives the treats their signature crunch.
How to Make Rice Krispie Treats
Step 1: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan with nonstick spray or a thin layer of butter, or line it with parchment paper. Set aside.
Step 2: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add the marshmallows and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat as soon as the marshmallows are melted.
Step 3: Immediately add the cereal and stir until evenly coated. Work quickly — the marshmallows begin to set as they cool.
Step 4: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan and use a spatula to press it into an even layer. If the spatula sticks, lightly butter it or spray it with cooking spray.
Step 5: Allow the pan to cool, then cut into squares and serve.
How to Make Rice Krispie Treats in the Microwave
Place the butter and marshmallows in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for about 3 minutes, stirring after 2 minutes. Stir until smooth, then mix in the cereal and proceed with pressing into the pan as described above.
Tips for Making the Best Rice Krispie Treats
- Use fresh marshmallows: Dried or stale marshmallows won’t melt smoothly and can affect the texture.
- Avoid over-compressing: Don’t press the mixture too firmly into the pan — that can make the finished bars dense and hard.
- For extra gooeyness: Add an extra tablespoon of butter and reduce the cereal slightly, or fold in extra mini marshmallows.
Rice Krispie Treats Variations
- Mix-ins: Fold in mini M&Ms, chocolate chips, or white chocolate for added flavor and texture.
- Flavored cereal: Substitute Rice Krispies with fruity or chocolate cereals like Fruity Pebbles or Cocoa Krispies for a different twist.
- Holiday colors: Dye the marshmallow mixture with food coloring or add themed sprinkles to match any celebration.
FAQ’S
Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days. Refrigeration can dry them out and make them firmer. For longer storage, freeze in layers separated by wax paper for up to six weeks; thaw overnight before serving.
Use fresh marshmallows, avoid overheating the butter and marshmallows, and don’t press the mixture too firmly into the pan.
Yes. Make them up to a day ahead and keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for best texture and flavor.
More Dessert Recipes
Desserts
Apple Roses
Desserts
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake
Cakes
Cherry Dump Cake
Desserts
Grinch Fudge
Rice Krispie Treats
Equipment
- Saucepan
- 9×13 Baking Dish or Pan
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 10 ounces marshmallows (about 40 large or 6 cups mini)
- 6 cups rice cereal
Instructions
- Prepare a 9×13 baking dish by lightly spraying with nonstick spray, rubbing with butter, or lining with parchment paper.
- In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
- Immediately add the cereal and stir until evenly combined. Work quickly before the marshmallows set.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press into an even layer with a spatula. If the spatula sticks, butter it or spray lightly.
- Let cool, then cut into squares and serve.
Notes
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 31 g
Protein: 1 g
Fat: 3 g
Nutrition information is an approximation.