Rice Krispie Treat Cheesecake

If you’re in the mood for a dessert that combines nostalgic childhood treats with the elegance of a classic dessert, look no further than this Rice Krispie Treat Cheesecake recipe. This delightful fusion marries the gooey, marshmallow goodness of Rice Krispie treats with the creamy, smooth texture of cheesecake. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or as a unique addition to your dessert repertoire, this cheesecake is sure to impress. Here’s how you can make it at home.

Ingredients Needed:

For the Rice Krispie Crust:

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal

5 tablespoons butter
40 regular-sized marshmallows (or 5 cups of mini marshmallows)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream

For the Topping (optional):

Additional whipped cream
Mini marshmallows
Rice Krispies cereal

Equipment:

9-inch springform pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer

Saucepan

Directions:

Prepare the Crust:

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat.

Stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until they are well coated with the marshmallow mixture.
Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a greased 9-inch springform pan to form a crust. Set aside to cool and harden.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add sugar and vanilla, and beat until smooth.

Add eggs one at a time, beating just until blended after each addition.
Stir in sour cream until the mixture is smooth.
Pour the filling into the prepared Rice Krispie crust.

Bake the Cheesecake:

Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-55 minutes or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned.
Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit in the oven with the door closed for 1 hour.

Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Chill and Serve:

Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Before serving, you may top the cheesecake with whipped cream, a sprinkle of Rice Krispies cereal, and some mini marshmallows for an extra touch of whimsy.

Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake:

No Cracks: To avoid cracks in your cheesecake, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before you begin mixing. Additionally, avoid overmixing once you add the eggs.
Smooth Slicing: For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts.

Variations: Feel free to add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips for Rice Krispie Treat Cheesecake

Creating a delicious Rice Krispie Treat Cheesecake is just the beginning. To ensure you make the most out of this unique dessert, it’s important to know the best ways to serve and store it. Here are some tips to help you enjoy your cheesecake while maintaining its texture and flavor.

Serving Tips:

Serve Chilled: This cheesecake tastes best when served chilled. Remove it from the refrigerator just before serving to maintain its firmness and ease of slicing.
Adding Toppings Just Before Serving: If you’re using whipped cream, marshmallows, or any additional toppings like a sprinkle of Rice Krispies or drizzles of chocolate or caramel, add them right before serving. This ensures the toppings are fresh and maintain their texture, preventing them from getting soggy.
Pre-Slice for Ease: If you’re serving this at a gathering, consider pre-slicing the cheesecake before guests arrive. This makes it easier for guests to help themselves without having to cut through the firm crust each time.

Pairing: Pair this dessert with a warm beverage like coffee or tea, which complements the sweet and creamy characteristics of the cheesecake. The warmth of the beverage contrasts nicely with the coolness of the cheesecake, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerating: Cheesecake needs to be stored in the refrigerator. Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it from absorbing odors from other foods in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it can last up to 5 days.
Freezing: If you want to extend the life of your cheesecake, freezing is a great option. Wrap the entire cheesecake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Properly wrapped cheesecake can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Maintaining the Crust: Since the crust is made from Rice Krispies, it can lose its crispiness over time, especially if exposed to moisture. To help maintain some of the crust’s texture, keep the cheesecake well-covered and consume within a few days.
Avoiding Condensation: When thawing a frozen cheesecake, condensation can form on the surface, which might make the top layer slightly soggy. To minimize this, unwrap the cheesecake after it’s partially thawed in the refrigerator, which allows the condensation to evaporate more effectively.