Christmas Rice Krispies Treats
These festive, no-bake Christmas Rice Krispies Treats are my go-to holiday dessert: crisp cereal meets gooey marshmallow, all decked out in red and green sprinkles for an easy, homemade holiday snack.
Ingredients
- 6 cups crispy rice cereal (Kellogg’s Rice Krispies or a gluten-free brand)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature) plugrá or Land O’Lakes work nicely
- 4 cups mini marshmallows (Jet-Puffed or homemade vegan marshmallows)
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional, boosts flavor)
- Pinch fine sea salt (balances sweetness)
- 1/2 cup red and green holiday sprinkles (edible glitter mix or nonpareils)
- Optional mix-ins: • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for crunch) • 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips (semi-sweet or white chocolate) • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract plus 1/4 cup crushed candy canes
- Substitution tip: use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free twist; swap marshmallows for marshmallow creme in a pinch.
Instructions
- Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray—this makes lifting out the treats a breeze.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over low heat, melt butter until foamy. Add mini marshmallows and stir continuously until everything’s glossy and smooth (about 3–4 minutes).
- Remove the pan from heat, sprinkle in the vanilla extract and salt, then stir once more to combine—this little pinch really elevates the flavor.
- Gently pour in the crispy rice cereal and use a spatula to fold until each grain is coated in the marshmallow mixture. Don’t over-mix to maintain cereal's snap.
- Quickly fold in the red and green sprinkles and any optional mix-ins—nuts, chocolate chips, or peppermint bits.
- Transfer the mixture into your prepared dish and press down firmly but not too hard to maintain chewy texture.
- Let it rest at room temperature for 20 minutes, then chill in the fridge for another 15–20 minutes until firm but with a bounce.
- Lift the parchment out, place on a cutting board, and slice into 24–30 squares. Clean the knife between cuts for neat edges.
Notes
Store these Christmas Rice Krispies Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer shelf life, refrigerate for 5 days or freeze for up to 4 weeks. These bars are best enjoyed fresh and not reheated.
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