When you think of a sweet treat that brings back childhood memories, nothing quite compares to homemade rice krispies treats. Imagine the gooey marshmallows melting beautifully into crispy rice cereal, creating a delightful symphony of flavors and textures that dance on your taste buds. They are reminiscent of lazy afternoons spent crafting these delightful squares with friends, where laughter was the main ingredient.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make homemade rice krispies treats</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use different cereals for homemade Rice Krispies Treats?
- How long do homemade Rice Krispies Treats last?
- Can I make these treats dairy-free?
- 📖 Recipe Card
These treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just indulging in some self-care after a long week. There’s something magical about the aroma of butter and marshmallows wafting through the air, promising an amazing flavor experience that will take you straight back to simpler times.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These homemade rice krispies treats are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings
- Their sweet, chewy texture is simply irresistible and visually appealing with their glossy finish
- Plus, you can customize them by adding chocolate chips or sprinkles for extra fun!
I still remember the first time I made these treats for my friends. The look on their faces when they took that first bite was priceless.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Rice Krispies Cereal: Use fresh cereal for the best crunch; stale cereal won’t hold up well.
Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows melt faster; use large ones if that’s all you have.
Unsalted Butter: The unsalted kind allows you to control saltiness; don’t skip this key ingredient!
Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make homemade rice krispies treats
Melt the Butter and Marshmallows: Start by placing a large pot over low heat. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt gently. Once melted, stir in the marshmallows until completely melted and smooth.
Add Vanilla Extract: Remove the pot from heat and quickly add in a splash of vanilla extract. This will elevate your treats from good to great with its delightful aroma!
Mix in Rice Krispies Cereal: Gradually fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, stirring gently until every little puff is coated in that gooey marshmallow mix. Be careful not to crush them!
Transfer to a Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Pour your mixture into it and press down firmly using a spatula or your hands (damp hands work wonders).
Cool and Cut into Squares: Allow your treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cutting them into squares. This gives them time to set up nicely!
Enjoy these delightful squares as an after-school snack or a late-night indulgence while binge-watching your favorite show!
You Must Know
- Homemade Rice Krispies Treats are a nostalgic favorite that can be tailored to suit your taste
- The gooey marshmallow and crispy rice cereal create a delightful texture, making them perfect for parties or cozy nights in
- Personalize them with flavors or toppings for endless fun!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by melting butter in a large pot over low heat, then add marshmallows until smooth. Stir in Rice Krispies until evenly coated. This method ensures a perfect, gooey texture without burning.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, peanut butter, or sprinkles to elevate your homemade Rice Krispies Treats. You can also use flavored marshmallows for a fun twist!
Storing & Reheating
Store your treats in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and chewy. If they harden, briefly microwave them to restore their gooeyness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh marshmallows for the best flavor and texture; older ones may clump
- Grease your pan lightly before pressing the mixture down to prevent sticking
- Ensure even mixing of cereal and marshmallows for uniform treats
I remember the first time I made homemade Rice Krispies Treats; my friends devoured them within minutes! Their smiles and sticky fingers were priceless moments that made the effort worthwhile.
FAQ
Can I use different cereals for homemade Rice Krispies Treats?
Absolutely! Try using Cocoa Krispies or Fruity Pebbles for a fun flavor twist.
How long do homemade Rice Krispies Treats last?
They typically stay fresh for about 3-5 days if stored properly.
Can I make these treats dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute vegan butter and dairy-free marshmallows to create a delicious alternative.
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Homemade Rice Krispies Treats
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 16 servings 1x
Description
Homemade Rice Krispies Treats are a nostalgic delight that combines gooey marshmallows and crispy rice cereal into irresistible squares. Perfect for any occasion, these simple treats bring back childhood memories with every bite. Whether enjoyed as an after-school snack or a late-night indulgence, they can be customized with fun mix-ins like chocolate chips or sprinkles for added flair.
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies Cereal
- 10 oz mini marshmallows
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large pot over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add mini marshmallows and stir until completely smooth.
- Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until fully coated.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and press the mixture evenly into the dish using damp hands.
- Allow to cool for 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg





