The Ultimate Rice Krispie Treat Recipe Guide

Rice Krispie Treat Recipe: A timeless favorite for many, the Rice Krispie Treat is a simple yet delicious snack that combines crunchy cereal with gooey marshmallows and butter. Whether you’re making them for a party, school lunch, or just a sweet treat at home, these no-bake bars are easy to prepare and loved by kids and adults alike. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, requiring only a handful of ingredients that come together in minutes to create a fun, chewy delight. Let’s dive into how to make this classic treat from scratch.

Original Rice Krispie Treat Recipe

The original Rice Krispie treat recipe is a timeless classic. It’s beloved for its simplicity and its ability to balance crispy, gooey, and sweet. This recipe is perfect for those who want to stick to tradition.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows (or about 4 cups regular marshmallows)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Steps:

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Coat a 9×13-inch baking pan with grease or line it with parchment paper to prevent the treats from sticking.
2. Melt the Butter: In a large saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Incorporate the Marshmallows: After the butter has melted, stir in the marshmallows. Stir until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. If using, add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
4. Combine with Cereal: Remove the saucepan from heat and add 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal. Mix until the cereal is fully covered with the marshmallow blend.
5. Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Press the mixture evenly into the pan using a spatula or your hands (lightly buttered).
6. Excellent and Cut: Allow the treats to cool completely before cutting them into squares. Enjoy!

Easy Rice Krispie Treat Recipe

The easy Rice Krispie treat recipe is an excellent choice for a quick and straightforward treat. This recipe eliminates unnecessary steps, making it perfect for a fast and fuss-free dessert.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows

Steps:

1. Prepare the Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan.
2. Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large pot, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Add 10 oz of mini marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Mix with Cereal: Stir in 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
4. Press and Cool: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, press it down with a spatula, and let it cool. Once set, cut into squares.

Rice Krispie Treat Variations

While the classic Rice Krispie treat is a hit, you can try numerous Rice Krispie treat variations. These variations incorporate different ingredients to add flavor and texture.

Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats

Adding peanut butter to Rice Krispie treats creates an irresistible, rich, nutty flavor.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows

Steps:

1. Melt Ingredients: In a large saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add peanut butter and stir until melted. Then add marshmallows and stir until completely melted.
2. Combine with Cereal: Stir in Rice Krispies cereal until well coated.
3. Press and Cool: Pour into a greased pan, press down, and let cool before cutting into squares.

Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats

Chocolate lovers will enjoy this variation that adds cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder

Steps:

1. Melt Ingredients: Melt butter in a saucepan. Add marshmallows and cocoa powder, stirring until smooth.
2. Combine with Cereal: Mix in Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
3. Press and Cool: Transfer to a pan, press down, and let cool before cutting.

How to Make Rice Krispie Treats with Marshmallows

Making Rice Krispie treats with marshmallows is the traditional method. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make Rice Krispie treats with marshmallows:

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows

Steps:

1. Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch pan.
2. Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Add 10 oz of mini marshmallows and stir until thoroughly melted.
3. Combine with Cereal: Remove from heat and stir in 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal until the mixture is evenly coated.
4. Press and Cool: Spread the mixture into the prepared pan, press down firmly, and let cool before cutting into squares.

Rice Krispie Treats for Adults

Rice Krispie adult treats can be elevated with flavors and ingredients that appeal to grown-up tastes. Try these sophisticated variations for a more refined treat.

Coffee Flavored Rice Krispie Treats

Incorporate coffee for an adult twist on the classic treat.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows
• 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules

Steps:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Melt butter in a saucepan. Add marshmallows and coffee granules, stirring until smooth.
2. Mix with Cereal: Stir in Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
3. Press and Cool: Transfer to a pan, press down, and let cool before cutting.

Rice Krispie Treats with Nuts and Dried Fruit

Add nuts and dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, pecans)
• 1/2 cup dried fruit (e.g., cranberries, apricots)

Steps:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Melt butter and marshmallows as usual. Stir in nuts and dried fruit before combining with cereal.
2. Mix and Cool: Press into a pan and let cool before cutting.

Rice Krispie Treat Recipe Microwave

The Rice Krispie treat recipe microwave is an excellent option for those who prefer a quicker method. It’s easy and convenient, especially if you don’t want to use the stovetop.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows

Steps:

1. Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt 3 tablespoons of butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Add 10 oz of mini marshmallows and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted.
2. Combine with Cereal: Stir in 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
3. Press and Cool: Transfer the mixture to a greased pan, press down firmly with a spatula, and let cool before cutting.

FAQs about Rice Krispie Treats

1. What are Rice Krispie treats made of?

Rice Krispie treats are made from just a few basic ingredients: Rice Krispies cereal, butter, and marshmallows. Some recipes also include additional ingredients such as vanilla extract or various mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.

2. Is it okay to substitute regular marshmallows for mini marshmallows?

Absolutely, regular marshmallows can be used in place of mini marshmallows. If using regular marshmallows, you may need to stir more frequently to ensure they melt evenly. A package of regular marshmallows is typically equivalent to a package of mini marshmallows.

3. How do I prevent Rice Krispie treats from sticking to the pan?

To prevent the treats from sticking to the pan, lightly grease the pan with butter or cooking spray. Alternatively, you can line the pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to easily lift out the treats once they’re set.

4. How can I make Rice Krispie treats softer or crunchier?

To make Rice Krispie treats softer, add a bit more butter or increase the amount of marshmallows in the recipe. For crunchier treats, use slightly less marshmallow or ensure that the mixture is not over-pressed into the pan.

5. Can I freeze Rice Krispie treats?

Yes, Rice Krispie treats can be frozen. To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for a few hours.

6. How long do Rice Krispie treats last?

Rice Krispie treats typically last about 1 week at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing them.

7. Can I make Rice Krispie treats with flavored marshmallows?

Yes, you can use flavored marshmallows (such as strawberry or chocolate) to add a unique twist to your Rice Krispie treats. Just substitute the flavored marshmallows for regular ones in the recipe.

8. How do I make Rice Krispie treats in the microwave?

To make Rice Krispie treats in the microwave, melt butter and marshmallows together in a large microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Then mix in the Rice Krispies cereal, press into a greased pan, and let cool.

9. Can I add mix-ins to Rice Krispie treats?

Absolutely! You can add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruit, or candy pieces to your Rice Krispie treats. Stir them in after the marshmallows have melted and before pressing the mixture into the pan.

10. Why did my Rice Krispie treats turn out too hard?

If Rice Krispie treats are too hard, it’s usually due to overcooking the marshmallows or pressing the mixture too firmly into the pan. To avoid this, cook the marshmallows just until melted and gently press the mixture into the pan without compressing it too much.