Melted butter and marshmallows blend with crispy Rice Krispies and a touch of vanilla to create this timeless treat. Thick and chewy with unparalleled nostalgic charm, it brings joy to every gathering. Relish these comforting squares that effortlessly merge tradition with a delectable, unforgettable taste. Savor each exquisite bite now.
I’ve always been on the hunt for the perfect Rice Krispie Treats recipe and I think I’ve nailed it with this one. I use exactly 3 tablespoons unsalted butter and a 10 oz package of regular marshmallows combined with 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal to create a treat that is both thick and chewy.
I sometimes add 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to give it a little extra depth, but it’s totally optional. These treats are not just kid friendly but also great for adults who want that nostalgic bite with a modern twist.
The recipe has a nutritional profile that is simple yet satisfying with plenty of carbohydrates and sugars for an energy boost. I discovered some secret tips that help with how to package Rice Crispy Treats or even how to make Rice Crispy Cakes that yield moist Rice Krispie Treats every time.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never go back.
Why I Like this Recipe
I really like this recipe because it’s super simple to follow and you can whip it up in no time, even when you’re in a rush. I also like that its thick and chewy with just the right crunch, which reminds me of my childhood snacks. Another reason I love it is that it’s a crowd pleaser; everyone from kids to adults enjoys these treats, and it’s a fun recipe to share with family and friends. Lastly, the secret little twist of adding vanilla makes everything taste even more homemade and special.
Ingredients
- Unsalted Butter: adds rich flavor and smooth texture with healthy fats that bind ingredients.
- Marshmallows: loaded with sugar and carbohydrates, they make the treats sweet and soft.
- Rice Krispies: a light cereal mostly made of carbs that offers a satisfying crunch and airy feel.
- Vanilla Extract: optional but it brings a warm and subtle aroma that brightens up the overall taste.
- Nutritional Note: these treats are fun and indulgent so enjoy them but dont overdo it.
- Texture Twist: mixing creamy butter with crispy cereal creates an irresistable mouthfeel.
- Cooking Tip: stir gently to keep the mix airy and prevent clumps from forming.
- Enjoy: serve cut squares at room temperature for the best flavor and crunch.
- A final reminder: treat yourself but remember a little goes a long way.
Ingredient Quantities
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 (10 oz) package regular marshmallows
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
How to Make this
1. Grease a 9×13-inch pan lightly so that the treats won’t stick later.
2. In a large pot, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over low heat.
3. Once the butter is melted, add the whole 10 oz bag of marshmallows to the pot.
4. Stir constantly until the marshmallows have melted completely. This will take about 3 to 4 minutes.
5. If you like, you can stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract after the marshmallows are melted.
6. Remove the pot from the heat and immediately fold in 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal.
7. Mix gently, making sure the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
8. Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and use a spatula to spread it out evenly.
9. Let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes until firm.
10. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy your thick and chewy Rice Krispie Treats with family and friends!
Equipment Needed
1. A 9×13-inch pan for mixing and cooling the treats
2. A large pot to melt the butter and marshmallows
3. Measuring cups and spoons to get the right amounts of butter, marshmallows, and vanilla
4. A heat–resistant spatula to stir the mix and spread it evenly in the pan
5. A knife or pizza cutter to chop the cooled treats into squares
FAQ
Rice Krispie Treats Recipe Substitutions and Variations
- If you don’t have unsalted butter, you can totally use salted butter or even some melted coconut oil which adds a nice flavor twist
- Instead of the regular marshmallows, try using mini marshmallows or blended vegan marshmallows if you’re cutting back on dairy
- If Rice Krispies aren’t available, look for a gluten free crispy rice cereal or even puffed rice cereal which works just as well
- For the optional vanilla extract, you can swap it out with almond extract for a slightly different but still yummy taste
Pro Tips
1. Make sure you stir the marshmallows and butter all the time while they melt so you dont end up with burnt bits and bumpies in your mix.
2. When you add the vanilla, do it off the heat cause if it gets too hot you might lose its flavor.
3. Don’t over mix your Rice Krispies into the melted marshmallow or you might break them up too much so your treats become kind of crumbly.
4. If you want extra chewy treats, let the mix cool in the pan a little longer before cutting into squares.
Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
My favorite Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. A 9×13-inch pan for mixing and cooling the treats
2. A large pot to melt the butter and marshmallows
3. Measuring cups and spoons to get the right amounts of butter, marshmallows, and vanilla
4. A heat–resistant spatula to stir the mix and spread it evenly in the pan
5. A knife or pizza cutter to chop the cooled treats into squares
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 (10 oz) package regular marshmallows
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Grease a 9×13-inch pan lightly so that the treats won’t stick later.
2. In a large pot, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over low heat.
3. Once the butter is melted, add the whole 10 oz bag of marshmallows to the pot.
4. Stir constantly until the marshmallows have melted completely. This will take about 3 to 4 minutes.
5. If you like, you can stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract after the marshmallows are melted.
6. Remove the pot from the heat and immediately fold in 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal.
7. Mix gently, making sure the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
8. Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and use a spatula to spread it out evenly.
9. Let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes until firm.
10. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy your thick and chewy Rice Krispie Treats with family and friends!
