Print

Stars-and-Stripes Cereal Treats Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 7 reviews

Celebrate patriotic occasions with these delightful Stars-and-Stripes Cereal Treats. Made from crispy rice cereal and gooey marshmallows, these colorful treats are swirled with red, white, and blue candy melts and topped with festive star sprinkles, perfect for Independence Day or any patriotic celebration.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 4 tbsp. salted butter, plus more for the pan
  • 1 (10-ounce) bag mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
  • 6 cups rice cereal (such as Rice Krispies)

Decoration Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup white candy melts
  • 1 cup red candy melts
  • 1 cup blue candy melts
  • White star sprinkles, for decorating

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  2. Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large pot over low heat, melt 4 tablespoons of salted butter. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
  3. Add Flavor and Cereal: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt into the melted marshmallow mixture. Gradually fold in 6 cups of rice cereal until the cereal is evenly coated.
  4. Press Base Layer: Transfer the cereal mixture to the prepared pan. Using a buttered spatula or clean hands, firmly press the mixture into an even layer. Let it cool slightly while preparing the candy melts.
  5. Melt Candy Melts: In separate microwave-safe bowls, melt the white, red, and blue candy melts according to package instructions, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
  6. Swirl Colors: Pour the melted candy melts in stripes or random patterns over the pressed cereal treats. Using a toothpick or skewer, gently swirl the colors together to create a marbled effect.
  7. Decorate: Sprinkle white star sprinkles generously over the top while the candy melts are still wet to ensure they stick.
  8. Set and Serve: Allow the treats to cool completely at room temperature until the candy melts harden, about 30 minutes. Once firm, cut into 12 bars and serve.

Notes

  • For easier handling, lightly butter your hands when pressing the cereal mixture into the pan to prevent sticking.
  • You can substitute kosher salt with regular table salt if needed.
  • If star sprinkles are unavailable, consider using white nonpareils or sugar crystals.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
  • Microwave melting times vary; melt candy melts in short increments to avoid scorching.