Rice Krispie Treats

Recipe By:

Rachael

Posted:

February 15, 2025

Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful reminder of childhood for many of us. They bring back memories of school bake sales, birthday parties, and cozy afternoons spent with family. In this recipe, we’ll walk through creating these sweet, gooey treats together. The combination of crispy rice cereal, melty marshmallows, and a touch of butter is simply irresistible. You’ll find that making Rice Krispie Treats is not only easy but also a fun way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get started on a treat that’s sure to bring joy to everyone!

Jump to:

What is Rice Krispie Treats
Why You’ll Love This Rice Krispie Treats
Ingredients for Rice Krispie Treats
How to Make Rice Krispie Treats
Prepare Your Baking Pan
Melt the Butter
Combine Marshmallows
Add Flavorings
Incorporate the Cereal
Transfer to Baking Pan
Allow to Cool
Serving Suggestions
Tips for Success
Variations
Storage Tips
FAQs
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What is Rice Krispie Treats

Rice Krispie Treats are a classic no-bake dessert made from crispy rice cereal mixed with melted marshmallows and buttery goodness. This delightful concoction is known for its gooey texture and irresistible sweetness, making it a beloved treat across generations.

Why You’ll Love This Rice Krispie Treats

Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, chewy rectangle packed with flavor—this recipe amps up the traditional Rice Krispie Treats by using extra marshmallows and a sprinkle of sea salt. Perfect for any occasion, these treats are not only simple to make but also customizable, allowing you to explore your creativity in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Rice Krispie Treats

1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into slices
16 oz mini marshmallows, divided
8 cups crisp rice cereal
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt

How to Make Rice Krispie Treats

Prepare Your Baking Pan

Start by lining a 9×13 baking pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease the parchment and the pan with nonstick spray for easy removal later. Set it aside until ready to use.

Melt the Butter

In a large pot, add the sliced unsalted butter. Place it over medium-low heat and allow it to melt completely. Stir occasionally to ensure even melting. Watching the butter melt creates a comforting feeling, reminding you that good things take time.

Combine Marshmallows

Once the butter has melted, add 6 cups of the mini marshmallows to the pot. Stir gently until the marshmallows are fully melted and combined with the butter, creating a smooth mixture. Keep stirring, and you’ll see the magic happen.

Add Flavorings

Remove the pot from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This will enhance the flavor of your Rice Krispie Treats. The aroma of vanilla brings a warm, cozy feeling that makes the whole experience even better.

Incorporate the Cereal

Gradually add the 8 cups of crisp rice cereal to the melted marshmallow mixture. Gently fold the cereal into the mixture until it is evenly coated. As you stir, add the remaining 2 cups of marshmallows, allowing them to soften without completely melting. This step is crucial for maintaining that perfect gooeyness.

Transfer to Baking Pan

Once everything is combined, transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Using a greased rubber spatula, gently press the mixture down into the pan. Be careful not to press too hard to maintain the light and airy texture. The process of pushing it into the pan is almost therapeutic—just be gentle!

Allow to Cool

Let the Rice Krispie Treats cool to room temperature for about 1 hour. After cooling, cut them into squares or rectangles as desired. The anticipation builds as you wait for them to set!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Rice Krispie Treats on a decorative platter or wrap them in cellophane for a perfect homemade gift. They make excellent snacks for parties, school lunches, or movie nights. Imagine sharing them with friends while reminiscing about childhood memories.

Tips for Success

Use fresh marshmallows for the best texture.
Avoid compressing the treats to maintain that wonderful gooeyness.
Experiment with the amount of marshmallows for a desired texture—it’s all about finding your personal favorite.

Variations

Add chocolate chips or sprinkles for a fun twist.
Substitute a portion of the rice cereal with puffed corn or mini pretzels for a unique blend.
Drizzle melted chocolate on top for an indulgent finish. Each variation opens a door to new flavor experiences!

Storage Tips

Store your Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. They’re perfect for those moments when you need a quick treat!

FAQs

1. Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, but you may need to cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they melt properly.

2. How do I make them gluten-free?
Ensure that the rice cereal is labeled gluten-free, as some brands may include gluten.

3. Can I add other ingredients like nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.

4. How do I prevent them from becoming too hard?
Be sure not to press too firmly when packing them into the pan and store them in an airtight container.

5. What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover treats can easily be crumbled and added to ice cream for a fun topping!

These extra gooey Rice Krispie Treats are not just delicious; they evoke nostalgia while providing a simple yet satisfying treat. Whether enjoyed at a gathering or as a personal snack, the delightful combination of marshmallow and crispy cereal guarantees smiles all around. Feel free to make them your own, exploring different flavors and add-ins for a customized experience. Happy cooking!

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