Take everything you love about classic cereal bars, add a pop of retro cherry flavor, and finish with a silky blanket of chocolate—that’s the magic of Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats. Imagine gooey marshmallow delight colliding with almond-scented, cherry-studded crunch, all topped in glossy, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate. These no-bake dessert squares are equal parts playful and nostalgic, making them totally irresistible for both kids and grown-ups! If you’re after a treat that brings fun, color, and decadent taste to your dessert table, this is the recipe to try.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of key ingredients, you’ll transform humble pantry staples into a show-stopping treat. Each component plays an essential role—let’s take a closer look at what brings these Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats to life!
- Rice Krispies cereal: The classic light, crispy base gives your bars the signature texture.
- Mini marshmallows: Melted down, these create that unforgettable sticky-sweet chewiness.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps the marshmallows melt into a velvety mixture.
- Almond extract: A dash gives a delicate marzipan aroma that perfectly pairs with cherries.
- Chopped maraschino cherries: Their bright color and tart sweetness bring fun and a bold cherry flavor.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melting these on top creates a luscious, fudgy layer.
- Coconut oil or shortening: Just a spoonful makes your chocolate shine and stay silky-smooth.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and give it a very light grease. This simple trick ensures your finished bars slip right out—no sticking or crumbling! Don’t skip smoothing out those corners; it makes all the difference for clean, even squares.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter, then add in the mini marshmallows. Stir constantly as the marshmallows slowly melt, transforming into a glossy, creamy cloud. Once everything is melted and smooth, stir in the almond extract, which instantly infuses the mixture with a cozy, aromatic lift.
Step 3: Stir in Cereal and Cherries
Quickly remove the pan from heat and pour in your Rice Krispies cereal and chopped, well-dried maraschino cherries. Fold the mixture together with a gentle touch, just until every bit of cereal is coated and the cherries are evenly distributed. This is where the magic happens—big pops of color and flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Press Into the Pan
Spoon the mixture into your prepared pan, then use a buttered spatula or a piece of wax paper to press it down evenly. Be a little firm, but don’t pound it; you want a solid bar that’s still soft to bite. Now walk away for about 30 minutes and let the bars cool and set up before the chocolate goes on top.
Step 5: Melt and Drizzle the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until the chocolate is perfectly smooth and pourable. Drizzle or spread the melted chocolate right over the cooled cereal layer. Whether you go for a thick layer or elegant zigzags, let the chocolate fully set at room temp (or pop the tray in the fridge to speed things along).
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once the chocolate topping is completely firm, use a sharp knife to lift the slab from your pan and slice it into neat squares. Each one should show off ruby cherry gems, snowy cereal, and a beautiful chocolate crown. Get ready to watch these disappear in minutes!
How to Serve Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats
Garnishes
For a little extra wow factor, try scattering a few more chopped maraschino cherries or a sprinkle of festive sprinkles on top before the chocolate sets. Or, finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an old-school bakery vibe—the possibilities are as fun as the treats themselves!
Side Dishes
Balance out these sweet, chewy bars with something fresh—a big bowl of berries or a platter of crisp apple slices complements them brilliantly. For a party table, serve with a glass of cold milk or even almond-infused hot cocoa for pure, nostalgic comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling festive, cut your Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats with cookie cutters into hearts or stars for holidays and birthdays. Wrap squares individually in colorful wax or parchment paper for adorable lunchbox or party favors. Stack them on a cake stand for a whimsical dessert centerpiece that’s sure to put a smile on everyone’s face.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your treats at their best by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’re layering them, add a sheet of parchment paper between each row to prevent any sticky situations. They stay chewy and fresh without refrigeration!
Freezing
Need to stash treats for later? Freeze the cut bars in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or container with parchment between layers. They’ll keep for about two months—just thaw at room temp whenever your cravings hit.
Reheating
While these bars are best enjoyed fresh, you can bring back that soft texture by popping a square in the microwave for just 5 to 10 seconds. The chocolate may get a bit glossy, but the center will turn gooey and dreamy all over again.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?
Fresh cherries bring wonderful flavor, but their juice can make the treats soggy. If you do use them, pit, chop, and dry them thoroughly, and eat the treats the same day for the best texture.
What’s the best way to cut perfect, clean squares?
Let the bars cool and the chocolate set fully before slicing. Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts, for those picture-perfect, bakery-style squares of Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, and use dairy-free chocolate chips. Most marshmallows are already dairy-free, just double-check your brand to be sure.
How do I keep the treats from sticking to my hands or the knife?
Lightly grease your spatula, hands, and knife with a bit of butter or oil before pressing or cutting. It keeps everything neat and sticky-free (except your fingers, which are ready to taste-test of course!).
Is it possible to double the recipe for a crowd?
You sure can! Just use a larger baking sheet or two pans. Make sure to work quickly when mixing—once the marshmallow mixture cools, it gets hard to spread.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are pure joy in every bite. Give them a try—you might find yourself smiling with every chewy, chocolate-cherry-splashed square!
Print
Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats, a fun twist on the classic marshmallow cereal bars. The combination of sweet cherries, rich chocolate, and crispy cereal makes for a perfect no-bake dessert.
Ingredients
Rice Krispies Treats:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 10 oz mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- ¾ cup chopped maraschino cherries (drained and patted dry)
Chocolate Topping:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice Krispies Treats: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth. Stir in the almond extract. Remove from heat and fold in the Rice Krispies cereal and chopped maraschino cherries until fully combined.
- Press into Pan: Quickly press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan using a buttered spatula or wax paper. Allow to cool for 30 minutes.
- Make the Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Drizzle or spread the melted chocolate over the cooled treats.
- Set and Serve: Let the chocolate set completely at room temperature or in the fridge before slicing into squares.
Notes
- Make sure the cherries are well-drained and patted dry to prevent soggy treats.
- You can use white or dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet if preferred.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *