Favorite Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Introduction
Rice Krispie Treats are a classic, no-bake dessert that’s quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Crispy cereal and gooey marshmallows combine to create a sweet, crunchy snack perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup (170g; 12 Tbsp) unsalted butter
- Two 10-ounce bags (566g; 11 heaping cups) mini marshmallows
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch salt
- 9 cups (270g) crispy rice cereal
Instructions
- Step 1: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the parchment with a very light mist of nonstick spray. Set aside.
- Step 2: In a very large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted and smooth.
- Step 3: Remove the pot from heat immediately. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
- Step 4: Gently fold in the crispy rice cereal, making sure each piece is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Step 5: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Using a lightly greased silicone spatula, spread the mixture to fit the pan. Then, lightly grease the back of a flat spatula and press the mixture down gently, avoiding packing it tightly.
- Step 6: Let the treats set at room temperature for at least 1 hour or up to 1 day. Cover tightly if left out for more than a few hours to keep them fresh.
- Step 7: Lift the block of treats out of the pan using the parchment edges. Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try adding a handful of chocolate chips or mini M&Ms before pressing the mixture into the pan.
- Use a silicone spatula and grease it well to prevent sticking while spreading and pressing the mixture.
- Substitute half the marshmallows with flavored marshmallows for a twist.
Storage
Store leftover Rice Krispie Treats at room temperature in an airtight container. Place parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. They keep well for up to 3 days. Reheating isn’t necessary; simply enjoy them as they are.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini ones?
Yes, you can use regular marshmallows. Just chop them into smaller pieces to help them melt evenly and quickly.
How do I prevent the treats from being too sticky?
Use a lightly greased spatula to press the mixture gently without packing it too tightly. Also, letting the treats set completely at room temperature helps reduce stickiness.
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Favorite Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Favorite Rice Krispie Treats recipe is a classic, crowd-pleasing dessert featuring crispy rice cereal enveloped in a rich, gooey marshmallow and butter mixture, enhanced with a subtle hint of vanilla. With a quick stovetop preparation and simple ingredients, these treats set into chewy, buttery squares perfect for parties, snacks, or anytime indulgence.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup (170g; 12 Tbsp) unsalted butter
- two 10-ounce bags (566g; 11 heaping cups) mini marshmallows
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- pinch salt
Dry Ingredients
- 9 cups (270g) crispy rice cereal
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the parchment using a very light mist of nonstick spray. Set aside to ensure easy removal of the treats later.
- Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a very large pot over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until the marshmallows are fully melted and the mixture is smooth, forming the base of the treats.
- Add Flavor and Salt: Remove the pot from heat immediately. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to elevate the flavor profile and balance the sweetness.
- Combine with Cereal: Gently fold in the crispy rice cereal, making sure every piece is thoroughly coated with the marshmallow mixture without crushing the cereal.
- Transfer to Pan and Press: Pour the cereal mixture into the prepared pan. Using a lightly greased silicone spatula, spread the mixture evenly to fill the pan. Then, lightly grease the back of a flat spatula and press down gently to compact the mixture without packing it too tightly for the right texture.
- Set and Cool: Let the treats set at room temperature for at least 1 hour or up to 1 day to allow them to firm up. If leaving them out for more than a few hours, cover tightly to maintain freshness.
- Cut and Store: Once set, lift the entire block of Rice Krispie Treats out of the pan using the parchment paper edges. Cut into squares of desired size. Store any leftovers covered at room temperature in an airtight container with parchment or wax paper layers between servings for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Use parchment paper and light greasing to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal from the pan.
- Do not pack the mixture too tightly when pressing to keep treats light and chewy.
- Store treats properly to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
- For a firmer treat, allow them to set longer at room temperature.
- Mini marshmallows work best for quick and even melting, but alternatives can be used with some adjustments.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Rice Krispie Treats, marshmallow treats, crispy rice cereal dessert, classic snack, easy dessert, no-bake treats
