Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Best Rice Krispie Treats are irresistibly sweet, buttery, and perfectly crispy. This recipe makes the perfect balance between soft and crunchy, with just the right amount of gooey marshmallow to hold the cereal together. It’s simple to make, requires no baking, and is endlessly customizable. Plus, you can add extras like chocolate chips, sprinkles, or even peanut butter to make them even more delicious. This is the Rice Krispie Treat recipe you’ll return to every time!
Ingredients
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6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows (or about 6 cups)
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for extra flavor)
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Pinch of salt (optional for a slight contrast to the sweetness)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Prepare the pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will help the treats come out easily later.
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Melt the butter: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the marshmallows to the pan, stirring constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth. If you’re adding vanilla extract, you can stir it in at this stage for extra flavor.
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Add the Rice Krispies: Remove the pan from the heat and immediately stir in the Rice Krispies cereal. Make sure to fold the cereal gently until it is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture. Be careful not to crush the cereal as you stir.
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Press into the pan: Transfer the Rice Krispie mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a piece of parchment paper or a spatula to gently press the mixture into an even layer. Don’t press too hard; you want the treats to stay soft and chewy.
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Let them set: Allow the Rice Krispie Treats to cool and set for at least 30 minutes before cutting them into squares. If you’re in a hurry, you can place them in the fridge for about 15 minutes to speed up the process.
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Serve: Once set, cut into squares or bars, and enjoy your perfect Rice Krispie Treats!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 12-16 (depending on how large you cut the squares)
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 5 minutes
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Total Time: 30-40 minutes (including cooling time)
Variations
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Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats: Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips after you’ve mixed the Rice Krispies with the marshmallow mixture. This adds a delicious chocolatey twist!
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Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats: Add 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter to the melted butter and marshmallows for a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the cereal.
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Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: Drizzle or fold in some caramel sauce with the marshmallows for a sweet and buttery treat.
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Confetti Rice Krispie Treats: Mix in some colorful sprinkles before pressing the mixture into the pan for a fun, festive look.
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S’mores Rice Krispie Treats: Add a handful of mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers into the mixture for a s’mores-inspired treat.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftover Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.
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Reheating: Rice Krispie Treats don’t require reheating, but if they become too hard, you can microwave them for 5-10 seconds to soften them slightly.
FAQs
How do I prevent my Rice Krispie Treats from being too hard?
Be careful not to over-press the mixture into the pan. The treats should be gently pressed to ensure they’re chewy. If they’re too hard, it’s usually because the marshmallow mixture was overcooked or the treats were pressed too firmly.
Can I use different cereal for Rice Krispie Treats?
Yes! You can substitute Rice Krispies with other puffed cereals like Cocoa Krispies, Corn Pops, or even Cheerios for a fun twist.
Can I make Rice Krispie Treats without butter?
Butter is key to the flavor, but if you need to make them dairy-free, you can use a dairy-free butter substitute or coconut oil.
Can I make these Rice Krispie Treats ahead of time?
Yes, these treats can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They hold up well, so they’re great for meal prep, parties, or special events.
Can I add nuts to these Rice Krispie Treats?
Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts like almonds, peanuts, or walnuts can add a delightful crunch and extra flavor. Just fold them in with the Rice Krispies and marshmallow mixture.
Why are my Rice Krispie Treats too sticky?
If the treats are too sticky, they may not have been cooked long enough. Be sure the marshmallows are fully melted and mixed with the butter before adding the cereal. Also, make sure to let them cool completely before cutting.
Conclusion
The Best Rice Krispie Treats are simple, sweet, and downright delicious! With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can make the ultimate treat that everyone will love. Whether you keep them classic or experiment with variations like chocolate chips or peanut butter, these treats are sure to please. They’re perfect for any occasion, and you’ll find yourself making them time and time again! Enjoy the crisp, gooey goodness of the best Rice Krispie Treats ever!
Best Rice Krispie Treats
Rice Krispie Treats are a classic, no-bake dessert that’s loved by kids and adults alike. With just three simple ingredients—Rice Krispies cereal, butter, and marshmallows—these treats come together quickly to create a chewy, crispy, and sweet snack that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 30-40 minutes (including cooling time)
- Yield: undefined
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows (or about 6 cups)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for extra flavor)
- Pinch of salt (optional for a slight contrast to the sweetness)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will help the treats come out easily later.
- Melt the butter: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the marshmallows to the pan, stirring constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth. If you’re adding vanilla extract, you can stir it in at this stage for extra flavor.
- Add the Rice Krispies: Remove the pan from the heat and immediately stir in the Rice Krispies cereal. Make sure to fold the cereal gently until it is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture. Be careful not to crush the cereal as you stir.
- Press into the pan: Transfer the Rice Krispie mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a piece of parchment paper or a spatula to gently press the mixture into an even layer. Don’t press too hard; you want the treats to stay soft and chewy.
- Let them set: Allow the Rice Krispie Treats to cool and set for at least 30 minutes before cutting them into squares. If you’re in a hurry, you can place them in the fridge for about 15 minutes to speed up the process.
- Serve: Once set, cut into squares or bars, and enjoy your perfect Rice Krispie Treats!
Notes
Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats: Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips after you’ve mixed the Rice Krispies with the marshmallow mixture. This adds a delicious chocolatey twist!Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats: Add 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter to the melted butter and marshmallows for a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the cereal.Caramel Rice Krispie Treats: Drizzle or fold in some caramel sauce with the marshmallows for a sweet and buttery treat.Confetti Rice Krispie Treats: Mix in some colorful sprinkles before pressing the mixture into the pan for a fun, festive look.S’mores Rice Krispie Treats: Add a handful of mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers into the mixture for a s’mores-inspired treat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: Varies
- Sugar: Varies
- Sodium: Varies
- Fat: Varies
- Saturated Fat: Varies
- Unsaturated Fat: Varies
- Trans Fat: Varies
- Carbohydrates: Varies
- Fiber: Varies
- Protein: Varies
- Cholesterol: Varies
