Gooey Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Irresistibly Sticky Rice Krispie Treats Recipe for Sweet Smiles

Crisp and chewy marshmallow rice krispie treats bring pure nostalgic delight to every sweet tooth.

These classic no-bake desserts melt memories of childhood into every gooey bite.

Soft marshmallows bind crispy rice cereal with buttery magic that creates an irresistible texture.

Anyone craving a quick and simple dessert will adore these mouthwatering squares of pure comfort.

Melted marshmallows and butter create a smooth, sticky base that perfectly coats each cereal piece.

The treat comes together in minutes, requiring just three basic ingredients.

You’ll want to make a double batch because these won’t last long on the dessert plate.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Calories: 150 kcal

Servings: 12

Rice Krispie Treats Must-Have Ingredients

For Base Ingredients:
  • Butter: Provides rich, creamy foundation that helps marshmallows bind and creates a luxurious mouthfeel.
  • Mini Marshmallows: Creates sticky, sweet glue that holds the treats together with irresistible gooey texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds subtle depth and rounds out the sweetness with warm, aromatic notes.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor complexity.
For Cereal Component:
  • Rice Krispies Cereal: Delivers delightful crispy crunch and light airy structure to the treats.
For Optional Enhancements:
  • Chocolate Chips: Introduces delectable melty pockets of richness and extra indulgence.
  • Additional Mini Marshmallows: Creates surprise pockets of extra gooeyness and textural interest throughout the treats.

Tools You’ll Want for Rice Krispie Treats

  • Large Pot: Essential for melting butter and marshmallows evenly over low heat.
  • Spatula: Helps stir marshmallow mixture smoothly and gently fold in cereal without crushing it.
  • 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Perfect size for spreading and setting Rice Krispie treats.
  • Measuring Cups: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions for consistent results.
  • Wax Paper or Buttered Spatula: Use for pressing mixture into pan without sticking.
  • Knife: Needed for cutting treats into neat squares after cooling.

Easy Instructions for Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

  • Prep the Baking Dish

Coat a 9×13 inch pan with butter or cooking spray. Line with parchment paper for super easy removal later.

  • Create Marshmallow Magic

Melt butter in a large pot over low heat. Dump in marshmallows and stir until they transform into a silky smooth mixture. Pull from heat and mix in a splash of vanilla for extra flavor.

  • Combine Crunchy Goodness

Gently fold Rice Krispies into the marshmallow blend until every crisp is beautifully coated. For serious gooey lovers, toss in extra marshmallows or sprinkle in chocolate chips.

  • Shape and Set

Transfer the sticky mixture to your prepared pan. Use a buttered spatula to spread evenly, pressing lightly to keep the treats soft and tender. Avoid smashing them down too hard.

  • Slice and Devour

Let the treats chill at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Slice into squares and enjoy your homemade sweet sensation!

Rice Krispie Treats: Pro Tips & Flavors

  • Marshmallow Melt Magic: Use fresh marshmallows for the best texture and sweetest flavor, ensuring they're soft and not hardened from age.
  • No-Stick Pressing Trick: Wet your hands or use a piece of buttered wax paper to press the mixture into the pan without sticking, creating a smooth and even surface.
  • Flavor Boost Variations: Experiment with different mix-ins like crushed cookies, sprinkles, peanut butter chips, or drizzle melted chocolate on top for a gourmet twist.
  • Gluten-Free Friendly: Swap regular Rice Krispies for gluten-free rice cereal to make this treat accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Make-Ahead Marvel: Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Ways to Serve Rice Krispie Treats at Events

  • Picnic Party Platter: Slice treats into fun shapes using cookie cutters for a playful outdoor dessert that kids and adults will love.
  • Sweet Dessert Bar Centerpiece: Drizzle melted chocolate or colorful candy melts over the treats, creating a stunning display that looks professionally decorated and tastes incredible.
  • Ice Cream Sandwich Hack: Carefully slice treats in half horizontally and sandwich your favorite ice cream flavor between them for an epic summer dessert that combines two classic treats.
  • Gift-Worthy Wrap: Package individual treats in clear cellophane bags tied with cute ribbons, perfect for bake sales, birthday parties, or homemade gifts that spread joy.

How to Keep Rice Krispie Treats Fresh

  • Fridge-Friendly Storage: Keep treats in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, separating layers with wax paper to prevent sticking.
  • Quick Freezing Trick: Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap, then store in freezer bags for up to 6 weeks, ensuring a quick sweet treat anytime.
  • Moisture Management: Add a slice of bread to the storage container to maintain softness and prevent the treats from becoming dry or hard.
  • Temperature Stability: Avoid storing near heat sources or direct sunlight, which can cause marshmallow mixture to soften and lose its signature texture.
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Gooey Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Gooey Rice Krispie Treats Recipe


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4.9 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

Rice krispie treats blend childhood nostalgia with simple marshmallow magic. Creamy, sweet squares offer quick comfort and delightful crunch for dessert lovers who crave classic American snacks.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups rice krispies cereal
  • 1 10 oz (283 g) bag mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup additional mini marshmallows
  • ½ cup (1 stick or 113 g) unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup mini chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup rainbow sprinkles
  • Drizzle of melted chocolate
  • Drizzle of melted caramel

Instructions

  1. Prep Station: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray, alternatively line with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Butter Fusion: In a large pot over low heat, melt butter completely, creating a smooth base for the marshmallow transformation.
  3. Marshmallow Alchemy: Introduce most marshmallows into the melted butter, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes a glossy, uniform liquid. Remove from heat and infuse with vanilla extract and a delicate salt touch.
  4. Cereal Integration: Swiftly fold Rice Krispies into the marshmallow blend, ensuring each crisp receives a thorough coating. If desired, fold in reserved marshmallows or additional mix-ins like chocolate chips.
  5. Molding Magic: Transfer the mixture to the prepared dish, using a butter-coated spatula to distribute evenly. Gently press to maintain a tender, airy texture.
  6. Setting Phase: Let the treats rest at room temperature for 30 minutes, allowing them to stabilize and achieve the ideal consistency.
  7. Serving Ritual: Slice into neat squares using a sharp knife, creating perfectly portioned delights ready to be savored.

Notes

  • Prevent Sticking Smartly: Use butter or non-stick spray on your spatula and hands to prevent marshmallow mixture from clinging and make spreading easier.
  • Control Marshmallow Melting: Keep heat low and stir continuously to achieve smooth, glossy texture without burning or creating lumpy consistency.
  • Work Swiftly: Act quickly when mixing cereal with marshmallow blend to ensure even coating and prevent mixture from cooling and becoming hard to manipulate.
  • Customize Creatively: Experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips, sprinkles, or crushed nuts after slightly cooling the mixture to maintain texture and prevent complete melting.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 14 g
  • Sodium: 90 mg
  • Fat: 6 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
William Hawkins

William Hawkins

Founder & Culinary Director

Expertise

  • Modern American and Southern Cuisine
  • Farm-to-Table Practices
  • Restaurant Concept Development
  • Culinary Education and Mentorship​

Education

Sullivan University, Louisville, KY

  • Degree: Associate of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Focused on mastering culinary methods and food science, immersive externships, hands‑on training in industry‑standard kitchen labs, and equipping graduates for roles in restaurant operations.

William Hawkins isn’t just a chef, he’s a storyteller through food. From his hometown of Louisville, KY, he’s spent years refining his craft, turning local ingredients into something extraordinary. 

With classical training from Sullivan University and a career marked by innovation, mentorship, and Southern soul, William approaches every recipe with purpose. His kitchen is where old techniques meet fresh ideas, and where comfort food gets a thoughtful, modern twist. 

When he’s not building dishes from the ground up, he’s out gathering inspiration from nature, markets, and the stories people share around the table.

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