Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade Rice Krispie Treats with this easy, foolproof recipe. These gooey, buttery squares with the perfect chewy texture come together in under 15 minutes using just three main ingredients - the ultimate no-bake sweet treat everyone will love!

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

10 mins

Cook Time:

5 mins

Serves:

16 squares

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">115g unsalted butter</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">400g marshmallows (regular or mini)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">180g puffed rice cereal (Rice Krispies or similar)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp vanilla extract</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">¼ tsp fine sea salt</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">23cm x 33cm (9x13-inch) baking pan</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Large non-stick pot</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Silicone spatula or wooden spoon</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Parchment paper</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Line your 23cm x 33cm baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides to create handles, and spray lightly with cooking spray or brush with a little butter. This preparation ensures your treats will release easily once set.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Using low heat prevents the butter from browning and gives you more control over the melting process.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Once the butter is completely melted, add the marshmallows and reduce heat to low. Stir constantly with your silicone spatula until the marshmallows are about 90% melted. The residual heat will melt them completely, and this prevents overheating which can make your treats tough.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. The vanilla enhances the flavor profile while the salt balances the sweetness, creating a more complex taste experience.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Working quickly, add the rice cereal to the marshmallow mixture and fold gently but thoroughly with your spatula. Avoid crushing the cereal - you want to maintain that signature crispiness. Make sure every piece of cereal gets coated with the marshmallow mixture for the perfect consistency.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan, but don't press it down firmly! Instead, use your spatula (or slightly dampened hands) to gently spread the mixture evenly. Pressing too hard compacts the cereal and results in dense, hard treats instead of light, chewy ones.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes until set. Resist the urge to refrigerate as this can make them too firm and less pleasantly chewy.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Once set, lift the treats out of the pan using the parchment paper handles and transfer to a cutting board. Cut into 16 even squares with a sharp knife (wiping the blade clean between cuts helps achieve neat edges).</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>Store your Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They're best enjoyed within 2 days when they'll maintain optimal chewiness and freshness.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Rice Krispie Treats?

Classic Rice Krispie Treats require just three main ingredients: butter, marshmallows, and puffed rice cereal. For enhanced flavour, add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. These simple ingredients create the perfect balance of gooey, sweet marshmallow binding with crispy cereal.

How to cook Rice Krispie Treats at home?

Learn how to cook Rice Krispie Treats by melting butter over low heat, stirring in marshmallows until mostly melted, then removing from heat. Add vanilla and salt for flavour, then fold in rice cereal gently. Transfer to a lined pan without pressing too firmly (this keeps them soft), and let set at room temperature. The entire process takes under 15 minutes with no baking required!

Why do my cereal treats turn out hard instead of chewy?

Hard treats usually result from overheating the marshmallow mixture or pressing the mixture too firmly into the pan. Use low heat when melting ingredients, remove from heat when marshmallows are 90% melted, and spread gently in the pan without compacting. Also, avoid refrigeration as this hardens the texture.

Can you freeze marshmallow cereal squares?

Yes, you can freeze these treats for up to 6 weeks. Once completely set, cut into squares and wrap each piece individually in cling film, then store in an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving to restore their chewy texture and best flavour.

What variations can I make to the basic no-bake cereal treat recipe?

The classic recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Try adding chocolate chips, sprinkles, or crushed Oreos. Swap some cereal for mini pretzels or popcorn. For festive versions, incorporate holiday sprinkles or food colouring. You can even drizzle the finished treats with melted chocolate or add dried fruit for extra flavour.

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