Description
This Best Rice Krispie Treats recipe delivers perfectly gooey, buttery, and sweet marshmallow cereal bars that are quick and easy to make. With a combination of melted butter, mini marshmallows, and crispy rice cereal, these treats are a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing snack enjoyed by all ages, ideal for parties, lunchboxes, or simple indulgence.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter
- 8 1/2 cups (450 g) mini marshmallows, divided (7 1/2 cups for melting, 1 cup reserved for stirring in at the end)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 7 1/2 cups (200 g) rice cereal (Rice Krispies, rice bubbles, or similar)
Instructions
- Melt Butter: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat to ensure the butter doesn’t burn and provides a rich base for the marshmallows.
- Melt Marshmallows: Add 7 1/2 cups of mini marshmallows to the melted butter. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Add Flavorings: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. This will enhance the sweetness and balance the flavors.
- Incorporate Rice Cereal: Fold in the rice cereal gently, mixing until all the cereal is evenly coated in the marshmallow mixture without crushing the pieces.
- Add Remaining Marshmallows: Stir in the remaining 1 cup of mini marshmallows just until combined. These marshmallows should remain partially melted for an extra gooey texture throughout the treats.
- Transfer and Shape: Transfer the mixture to a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch pan. Press it down gently with a greased spatula or clean hands, taking care not to pack it too firmly to preserve the light texture.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour until set. Once cooled, slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- Use fresh mini marshmallows for the best melting and gooey texture.
- Pressing down too firmly can make the treats dense; a gentle press keeps them light and chewy.
- For a fun twist, try adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, sprinkles, or chopped nuts after folding in the cereal.
- Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.