These Best Rice Krispie Treats are soft, gooey, and loaded with buttery, marshmallowy goodness in every bite. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these classic no-bake treats are quick, easy, and perfect for parties, bake sales, or a fun family dessert. This version takes the classic recipe up a notch with extra marshmallows for the ultimate chewy texture and a hint of vanilla for extra flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super soft and gooey – Extra marshmallows make every bite perfectly chewy.
- Quick and easy – Ready in just 15 minutes with no baking required.
- Perfect for any occasion – Great for parties, lunchboxes, or bake sales.
- Customizable – Add sprinkles, chocolate chips, or drizzle with melted chocolate for fun variations.
- Kid-friendly – A fun, mess-free recipe to make with little helpers!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 ½ bags (10 oz each) mini marshmallows (about 15 oz total)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt (optional, but enhances flavor)
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- ¼ cup rainbow sprinkles
- Melted chocolate for drizzling
Directions
- Prepare the pan:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Melt the butter:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent browning.
- Add marshmallows:
- Add 10 oz of mini marshmallows to the melted butter and stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Mix in cereal:
- Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Stir in the remaining 5 oz of mini marshmallows for extra gooeyness.
- Press into the pan:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press gently into an even layer using a buttered spatula or parchment paper (don’t press too hard, or the treats will become dense).
- Cool and serve:
- Let the treats cool at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before cutting into squares.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 16 squares
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including cooling)
Variations
- Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats: Add ½ cup cocoa powder or use Cocoa Krispies instead of original Rice Krispies.
- Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats: Stir ½ cup peanut butter into the melted marshmallows for a nutty twist.
- S’mores Treats: Add crushed graham crackers and chocolate chips for a s’mores-inspired flavor.
- Holiday-Themed Treats: Add colored sprinkles or food coloring for festive treats.
- Salted Caramel Treats: Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 6 weeks by wrapping individually in plastic wrap and storing in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Not recommended—these are best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, soften briefly in the microwave for 5–10 seconds.
FAQs
Why are my Rice Krispie treats hard?
Overcooking the marshmallows or pressing the mixture too firmly into the pan can lead to hard treats. Melt the marshmallows slowly over low heat and press the mixture gently.
Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, just chop them into smaller pieces for easier melting. Use the same weight measurement.
How do I keep my hands from sticking when pressing the mixture?
Lightly grease your hands or use parchment paper to prevent sticking while pressing the mixture into the pan.
Can I use a different cereal?
Yes! Cheerios, Cocoa Pebbles, or Fruity Pebbles are great substitutes for a fun flavor twist.
Can I make Rice Krispie treats vegan?
Yes, use vegan marshmallows and a plant-based butter substitute for a dairy-free, vegan-friendly version.
How long do Rice Krispie treats need to set?
Allow them to cool at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before cutting for the best texture.
Can I add food coloring to the marshmallow mixture?
Yes, add a few drops of food coloring after melting the marshmallows for colorful treats.
How do I cut Rice Krispie treats cleanly?
Use a sharp knife coated with non-stick spray or butter for clean, even cuts.
Can I make these treats ahead of time?
Yes, they’re great for making a day ahead—just store them in an airtight container until ready to serve.
Are Rice Krispie treats gluten-free?
Rice Krispies cereal contains malt flavoring (which contains gluten). Use a certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal for a gluten-free version.
Conclusion
These Best Rice Krispie Treats are the ultimate no-bake dessert—soft, gooey, and packed with marshmallow goodness. Whether you’re making them for a party, bake sale, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this foolproof recipe guarantees perfect results every time. Customize them with your favorite mix-ins and enjoy this classic treat that never goes out of style!
Print
Best Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 treats 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Rice Krispie Treats are extra soft, chewy, and loaded with gooey marshmallows. Made with a buttery base and just the right amount of cereal, they’re the ultimate no-bake treat for kids, parties, or a quick and easy dessert fix.
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows (plus 1 extra cup for folding in)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, for balance)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles
- Drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel
Instructions
-
Prepare the Pan:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
-
Melt Butter & Marshmallows:
- In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter until completely smooth.
- Add the bag of mini marshmallows (reserve 1 cup if adding extra for texture) and stir continuously until melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt (if using).
-
Mix in Cereal:
- Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- If using, stir in the reserved mini marshmallows for extra gooeyness or other add-ins like chocolate chips (let the mixture cool slightly before adding chips so they don’t melt completely).
-
Press into the Pan:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Lightly press down using a buttered spatula or wax paper—don’t press too hard to keep them soft and chewy.
-
Cool & Serve:
- Let the treats cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- For thicker treats, use an 8×8-inch pan instead of a 9×13-inch pan.
- Swap vanilla extract for almond or coconut extract for a flavor twist.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days (if they last that long!).