Rice Krispie Treats are a timeless classic, beloved by kids and adults alike. Originating in the 1930s, this simple yet delightful dessert was created by Kellogg’s home economists, quickly becoming a staple at bake sales, school lunches, and family gatherings.

Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something almost magical about biting into a perfectly gooey, chewy Rice Krispie Treat. It instantly takes me back to childhood, when my grandmother would make a batch just because she knew it was my favorite. The rich, buttery aroma would fill the kitchen, and I’d wait eagerly for them to set—though I’d always sneak a warm bite straight from the pan.
As I got older, I realized these treats weren’t just about nostalgia—they were about sharing joy. Whether I’m making them for a party, wrapping them up as a gift, or indulging in a late-night snack, Rice Krispie Treats always bring a sense of warmth and happiness. Plus, they’re endlessly customizable, which means I never get bored of making (or eating) them!

Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 40 pieces marshmallows
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Melt the Butter: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter until fully liquefied.
- Add Marshmallows: Stir in the marshmallows and continuously mix until completely melted and smooth.
- Incorporate Vanilla & Salt: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt, if using.
- Mix in Cereal: Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until fully coated in the marshmallow mixture.
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Set & Cool: Allow to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
- Enjoy! Serve and savor the gooey deliciousness!
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Notes
- Use Fresh Marshmallows: Stale marshmallows won’t melt smoothly and can make the treats hard.
- Don’t Overheat the Marshmallows: Cooking on high heat can lead to hard Rice Krispie Treats—low and slow is key!
- Grease Your Hands or Spatula: This prevents sticking when pressing the mixture into the pan.
- For Extra Gooeyness: Stir in an extra handful of mini marshmallows before spreading into the pan.
- Customize with Mix-Ins: Add sprinkles, crushed cookies, or peanut butter for a fun twist!
Nutrition
Serving Suggestions for Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
The beauty of Rice Krispie Treats is that they can be enjoyed in so many ways. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve them:
- Drizzled with Chocolate – A rich, melted chocolate drizzle takes these treats to the next level.
- Topped with Crushed Candy – Sprinkle crushed M&M’s, toffee bits, or sprinkles for added crunch and color.
- Cut into Fun Shapes – Use cookie cutters to create hearts, stars, or even letters for a festive touch.
- Served with Ice Cream – A warm Rice Krispie Treat paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is pure bliss.
No matter how you serve them, these treats always bring a smile to the table!

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Variations of Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
One of the best things about Rice Krispie Treats is how easy they are to tweak. Try these fun variations:
- Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats – Stir in a generous scoop of peanut butter for a nutty twist.
- S’mores Rice Krispie Treats – Mix in crushed graham crackers and mini chocolate chips, then top with toasted marshmallows.
- Salted Caramel Rice Krispie Treats – Drizzle caramel sauce over the treats and finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
- Funfetti Rice Krispie Treats – Add rainbow sprinkles to the mix for a birthday-inspired treat.
The possibilities are endless—feel free to experiment and find your favorite version!
Storage and Shelf Life of Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
To keep your Rice Krispie Treats fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
- Room Temperature Storage – Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration – If you like a firmer texture, store them in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freezing – Wrap individual treats in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Avoid Exposure to Air – Always keep them tightly covered to prevent them from drying out.
With proper storage, you’ll always have a sweet treat ready to enjoy!

Health Benefits of Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
While Rice Krispie Treats are definitely an indulgence, they do offer a few surprising benefits:
- Low in Fat – Compared to other desserts, these treats are relatively low in fat.
- Gluten-Free Option – When using gluten-free Rice Krispies, they make for a great gluten-free dessert.
- Quick Energy Boost – The combination of marshmallows and cereal provides a fast source of energy.
- Customizable for Healthier Versions – Use brown rice cereal and natural sweeteners for a healthier alternative.
Enjoying treats in moderation makes them even more special!
FAQs about Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
- Why are my Rice Krispie Treats too hard? Overheating the marshmallows can make them tough. Melt them on low heat for a softer texture.
- Can I use flavored marshmallows? Absolutely! Fruity or chocolate-flavored marshmallows can add a fun twist to the recipe.
- How do I make them extra gooey? Use a little extra butter and marshmallows for a softer, chewier treat.
- Can I make them without butter? Yes! You can substitute coconut oil or margarine for a dairy-free version.
- Can I add mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit? Of course! Chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even crushed pretzels add a great texture contrast.
With this simple yet delicious recipe, you’ll always have a go-to treat that’s perfect for any occasion!