Rice Krispie Treat Recipe

Our gooey rice krispie treat recipe is made in minutes. This classic recipe is so scrumptious you can’t eat just one!!

Rice krispie treats are easy to change up and perfect for a last-minute dessert. Try our other versions like Brown Butter Rice Krispies, Crack Rice Krispies, or Chocolate Caramel Rice Krispie Treats.

Our go-to Treat!

This rice krispie treats recipe is simple, with no fuss, and fail-proof. You can make these yummy treats in under 10 minutes – practically no time at all. I love a good quick dessert!

I grew up making and eating rice krispie treats all the time. They’re perfect for bringing to family dinners, school functions, or dropping off to a friend in need.

We love that they can be changed up by using different flavored marshmallows, different kinds of cereal, or even adding toppings. Although, we think these classic ones are the BEST rice krispie treats.

Turn them into something special for any holiday or celebration (see below for more inspiration). They are classic and will always be our go-to treat.

Rice Krispie Treats Ingredients

Can we talk about how you only need THREE ingredients for this rice krispie treat recipe? I repeat, THREE ingredients for one of the best treats ever.

I bet you can guess what those three ingredients are. Yup, you’re right:

• butter
• marshmallows (we use regular size AND mini)
• Rice Krispies

Something about the combination of those three ingredients is magical. Make sure to save 1-2 cups of mini marshmallows to mix in at the end.

I love the look of the non-melted marshmallows mixed throughout the rice krispie treats. You can never have too many marshmallows!

How to Make Rice Krispie Treats

These best rice krispie treats come together in minutes with only 3 ingredients. Because they are so easy, have the kids help create these gooey treats!

BUTTER. In a large bowl microwave-safe bowl, melt butter in the microwave for 30 seconds.

MARSHMALLOWS. Add large marshmallows to the butter and microwave for 3 minutes.

RICE KRISPIES. Stir well and slowly add rice krispies. When all combined, toss in 1-2 cups of mini marshmallows and pour into a greased 9×13 pan. Let it set and enjoy!

Marshmallow Tips

16 oz bag of large marshmallows. It’s easy to modify the recipe just a bit to make more and use a 16-ounce bag of marshmallows. Just use the larger bag and add 1 more tablespoon of butter, 1½ – 2 cups more Rice Krispies, and 2 more cups of mini marshmallows.

4 oz of marshmallows = 16 large marshmallows, and 10 mini marshmallows is about 1 large marshmallow.

Best way to make even cuts

To cut these homemade rice krispie treats perfectly every time, use these simple steps.

1. Line the pan with parchment paper before pressing the treats inside.
2. Allow them to cool. Warm treats don’t cut as crisply.
3. Once the rice krispies have set, remove the entire block by lifting them out with the parchment paper. 
4. Use a large sharp kitchen knife to make even clean cuts. 

recipe Tips

Keep them soft.

• Don’t use old marshmallows. Save that bag that’s been hiding in the back of the pantry for hot chocolate and use a fresh bag for this recipe.
• Don’t overheat the marshmallows.
• Press into an even layer but don’t pack the rice krispies too tightly. 
• Store them in airtight containers.

Gluten-free. Kellogg’s Rice Krispie Cereals uses malt flavoring, so they are not always gluten-free. I usually have success using generic brands, but always check the package for malt or wheat ingredients.

Stovetop directions. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the large marshmallows and use a rubber spatula to stir over medium-low heat until they have all melted. Remove from the heat and mix the crispy rice cereal in, then fold the miniature marshmallows into the mixture.

Texture. Keep the ratio of Rice Krispies and marshmallow mixture balanced for the best texture. If you add too many Rice Krispies they will turn out dry and hard. Too little Rice Krispies and they will be too gooey to hold together. 

Dairy-free. Whether you have a dairy allergy or avoid eating it, you can replace the butter with dairy-free butter or coconut oil. The rice krispie treats still turn out well.

Variations

One of the things I like most about our Rice Krispie treat recipe is that there are so many different varieties you can make! And it only takes a couple of extra easy steps to change it up.

• Chocolate. Use Cocoa Krispies and drizzle some melted chocolate on top.
• S’mores. Fold in chocolate chips and graham crackers to make them s’mores flavored!
• Sprinkles. Throw in rainbow sprinkles and call them birthday rice krispie treats.
• Vanilla. For a little added flavor, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract along with the large marshmallows.

We have a TON of different variations on our website that you should check out. Here are some of our favorites:

• Monster Rice Krispie Treats – perfect for your next Monster party (or for Halloween)!
• Chocolate Caramel Rice Krispies Treats – treats with layers of peanut butter, caramel, and chocolate.
• Fourth of July Rice Krispies Treats – layers of red, white, and blue Rice Krispies.
• Rice Krispies Easter Cups – a cereal basket topped with frosting and candy.
• Candy Corn Rice Krispies Treats – another great Halloween treat – or for fall.

Honestly, the possibilities are endless!! Also, think about all the different cereal combos you could make: Trix, Fruity Pebbles, and the varieties of Rice Krispies.

Storing info

STORE. These crispy treats will stay fresh for about 3 days if kept in an airtight container. They’ll be edible longer, but they will begin to harden. 

Keep them in a container that will fit all of them just right, without much excess air. The more open space, the more likely they are to dry out faster. Wrap first in plastic wrap before storing to help them stay soft as long as possible.

Store them at room temperature and not in the fridge. 

FREEZE. Wrap each treat with plastic wrap and place them in a freezer Ziploc. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before eating. Freezing extends the shelf life, but it will not be soft and gooey like fresh treats.

Recipe FAQ

For More Treat Bars, try:

• M&M Chocolate Bar
• Lemon Bars Recipe
• Strawberry Shortcake Bars
• Popcorn Bars
• Magic Cookie Bars