If I had to pick a dish that complements homemade Rice Krispie Treats, it would have to be a refreshing Italian Pasta Salad. Picture this: vibrant vegetables, firm pasta, and a zesty dressing coming together in a cool, hearty dish. It’s an ideal match for the chewy sweetness of Rice Krispie Treats.
The salad offers that crunch and depth that balance perfectly with the gooey texture of the treats. And hey, both can be made in less time than it takes to watch a sitcom episode!
I still remember the first time I made homemade Rice Krispie Treats. I was about ten years old, standing on a stool to reach the kitchen counter, trying not to spill melted marshmallows everywhere. The moment those marshmallows went into the cereal, it felt like magic.
Today, I’ll take you on a journey through this nostalgic recipe, sharing not just how to make these delightful treats, but also tips and fun twists to elevate them.
Homemade Rice Krispie Treats are an iconic dessert made primarily from crispy rice cereal, marshmallows, and butter. They’re sweet, chewy, and incredibly easy to make. They hold a special place in many of our hearts, whether as a childhood snack or as a fun treat for gatherings. Plus, they're customizable, so you can add your own flair!
To whip up these treats, here’s what you’ll need:
9 cups (270g) crispy rice cereal: This gives the treats their signature crunch.
3/4 cup (170g; 12 Tbsp) unsalted European-style butter: This type of butter adds richness.
Two 10-ounce bags (566g; 11 heaping cups) mini marshmallows: Soft and fresh marshmallows are essential for that gooeyness.
Pinch of fine sea salt: A little salt balances the sweetness.
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla bean extract: This enhances the flavor.
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): Adds warmth and depth.
1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional): It provides a subtle sweetness.
Making these treats can be a delightful family activity. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process, so grab your ingredients and let’s start!
First and foremost, gather all your ingredients and supplies. You’ll need a large pot, a spatula, a 9x13 inch baking dish, and maybe a candy thermometer if you’re feeling fancy. Okay, let’s get started!
In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt your butter. As it melts, keep stirring to prevent it from browning. You want it just melted, without a hint of color. This step helps create a beautifully smooth base for your marshmallows.
Once the butter is fully melted, add in the mini marshmallows. Make sure to keep stirring continuously. The marshmallows will slowly melt into a gooey mixture. This part always reminds me of my childhood. Watching those fluffy clouds turn into a mixture of sweetness!
When the marshmallows are fully melted, it’s time to add the sea salt, vanilla extract, and any optional extracts like almond or cinnamon. Stir well until everything is combined and smooth. Smelling the marshmallow concoction? That’s your cue to feel excited!
Now, remove the pot from the heat. Gently fold in your crispy rice cereal. Make sure every piece is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture. Use a spatula sprayed lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. The aroma would make anyone swoon!
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Even it out with your spatula, pressing it down gently but firmly. You want your treats to hold together. Once smooth, let it set at room temperature. It usually takes about 30 minutes—if you can wait that long!
After it has set, cut into squares. Enjoy your delicious homemade Rice Krispie Treats! You might want to hide them from family members who might eat them all in one sitting.
Here are some tips to ensure your Rice Krispie Treats come out perfectly every time:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your marshmallows are fresh for optimal gooeyness.
Don’t Overheat: Keep the heat low to avoid burning the butter and marshmallows.
Patience is Key: Allow the treats to set completely before cutting.
Be Creative: Add sprinkles or chocolate chips for an extra flair!
Keep It Light: Don’t pack the Rice Krispie mixture too tightly in the pan to preserve that chewy texture.
To store your Rice Krispie Treats, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If your home is humid, you might want to keep them in the fridge. Just remember, the fridge can dry them out a bit, so allow them to come back to room temperature before enjoying.
Each Rice Krispie Treat (assuming you cut them into 24 pieces) contains about:
Calories: 90
Total Fat: 3.5g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 120mg
Total Carbohydrates: 14g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 1g
S’mores Style: Sandwich a piece of chocolate between two Rice Krispie Treats. Toast the chocolate lightly for a delectable twist.
Ice Cream Topping: Cut them into small pieces and sprinkle over ice cream. The gooeyness is a delightful contrast to cold ice cream.
Chocolate Drizzled: Melt some chocolate and drizzle over your treats for an elegant touch.
Pack in Lunch Boxes: They make for a sweet treat in kids’ lunchboxes. They are fun and portable!
Fantastic Birthday Favors: Wrap them individually in colored plastic wrap for a festive birthday gift. Kids love them!
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these substitutes:
Crispy Rice Alternatives: You can use puffed corn or other cereals if you're looking for a gluten-free option.
Marshmallow Fluff: If you don’t have mini marshmallows, you can use marshmallow fluff, about 1.5 cups.
Nut Butter: Swap half the butter for peanut butter or almond butter for a nutty flavor.
Flavored Extracts: Experiment with different extracts like peppermint or coconut to give your treats a fun twist.
Add-Ins: Toss in dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips to elevate the flavor and texture.
Homemade Rice Krispie Treats are a nostalgic favorite, easy to make, and endlessly customizable. They’re a hit at parties, snack time, or any day when you want a bit of sweetness.
Whether you enjoy them plain, decked out with chocolate, or served alongside a cool Italian Pasta Salad, there’s no wrong way to enjoy these treats. Give them a try, and unleash your inner child. Happy cooking!
I still remember the first time I made homemade Rice Krispie Treats. I was about ten years old, standing on a stool to reach the kitchen counter, trying not to spill melted marshmallows everywhere. The moment those marshmallows went into the cereal, it felt like magic.
Today, I’ll take you on a journey through this nostalgic recipe, sharing not just how to make these delightful treats, but also tips and fun twists to elevate them.
Servings 20
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Here are some tips to ensure your Rice Krispie Treats come out perfectly every time:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your marshmallows are fresh for optimal gooeyness.
Don’t Overheat: Keep the heat low to avoid burning the butter and marshmallows.
Patience is Key: Allow the treats to set completely before cutting.
Be Creative: Add sprinkles or chocolate chips for an extra flair!
Keep It Light: Don’t pack the Rice Krispie mixture too tightly in the pan to preserve that chewy texture.
Kathleen Looney is a Texas-based registered dietitian and the creator of Easy Comfort Food Recipes, where she shares simple, hearty dishes that bring warmth and joy to the table. Combining her love for Southern classics and Tex-Mex flavors, Kathleen creates approachable recipes that balance indulgence and nutrition. Her passion lies in helping home cooks prepare comforting, soul-satisfying meals that nourish both body and spirit.