Name: Marshmallow Rice Krispie Treats
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter; 10 oz mini marshmallows (about 6 cups), divided; 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal; 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional); 1/4 tsp sea salt (optional); Optional toppings: sprinkles, chocolate chips, candy mix-ins

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Marshmallow Rice Krispie Treats are a classic no-bake dessert made with just a few ingredients and a whole lot of nostalgic flavor. With their chewy texture, gooey marshmallow coating, and light crunch, these bars are a favorite snack I can throw together in minutes. Whether I’m making them for a party, lunchbox treat, or late-night craving, they always hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick, easy, and satisfying these treats are to make. There’s no baking involved, and I only need a handful of pantry staples. They’re kid-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly customizable. Plus, the combination of buttery, gooey marshmallows with crispy cereal creates that perfect chewy-crunchy bite I can’t resist. I can enjoy them plain or dress them up with fun add-ins and toppings. Marshmallow Rice Krispie Treats

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

unsalted butter
mini marshmallows
Rice Krispies cereal
optional: vanilla extract, sea salt, sprinkles, chocolate chips, or candy mix-ins

Directions

I start by melting the butter in a large pot over low heat.
Once melted, I add most of the mini marshmallows and stir until they’re completely melted and smooth.
I stir in vanilla extract if I’m using it, then remove the pot from the heat.
I quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal and the remaining marshmallows until everything is well coated.
I transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch pan and gently press it down with a buttered spatula or wax paper.
I let it cool completely at room temperature before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 to 16 squares, depending on how large I cut them.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Cooling time: 30–60 minutes
Total time: about 45 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Drizzle: I melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the top for extra richness.
Peanut Butter: I mix in a spoonful or two of peanut butter with the melted marshmallows.
Fruity Treats: I add dried fruit or use a fruit-flavored cereal instead of plain Rice Krispies.
Birthday Style: I stir in sprinkles or top with colorful candies for a festive twist.
Salted Caramel: I sprinkle sea salt and a touch of caramel over the top for a sweet-salty combo.

Storage/Reheating

I store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If I need to keep them longer, I wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 6 weeks. To enjoy them again, I let them come to room temperature—no reheating needed. I avoid refrigerating them because it can make them too hard. Marshmallow Rice Krispie Treats

FAQs

How do I keep the treats soft and chewy?

I avoid overcooking the marshmallows and use fresh ones. Stirring gently and not packing the mixture too tightly in the pan helps keep them soft.

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini?

Yes, I just chop them into smaller pieces to help them melt evenly. Mini marshmallows just melt quicker and more uniformly.

What if the treats come out too hard?

That usually happens if the marshmallows are overheated. I melt everything on low heat and mix quickly to avoid this.

Can I make these treats dairy-free?

Absolutely. I use a dairy-free butter alternative and check that the marshmallows are vegan or dairy-free.

How do I press the mixture into the pan without it sticking?

I use a buttered spatula, wax paper, or lightly greased hands to press it down gently without sticking.

Conclusion

Marshmallow Rice Krispie Treats are one of those timeless desserts I can always count on. They’re simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. I love how easily I can make a batch, and with so many fun variations, I never get bored of them. Whether I’m keeping it classic or adding a creative twist, these treats always bring smiles.