Description
Celebrate the holiday season with these festive Christmas Rice Krispie Treats, featuring classic marshmallow goodness tinted green for a vibrant, holiday look and decorated with red Hots or holiday sprinkles for a fun, colorful finish. Perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or a delightful seasonal snack that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 6 cups (300 grams) miniature marshmallows
- ¼ cup (57 grams) salted butter
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 cups (168 grams) Rice Krispies cereal
Decorations and Coloring
- 10–12 drops green food coloring
- Red Hots candy or holiday sprinkles, as desired
Instructions
- Prepare the marshmallow mixture: In a large pot over low heat, melt the salted butter completely. Once melted, add the miniature marshmallows and stir continuously until the marshmallows are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add vanilla and color: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Then add 10-12 drops of green food coloring gradually, stirring well to achieve an even, festive green color throughout the marshmallow mixture.
- Mix with cereal: Quickly add the Rice Krispies cereal to the marshmallow mixture, stirring gently but thoroughly so that all cereal pieces are coated evenly without crushing them.
- Press into pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the pan and use a buttered spatula or wax paper to press the treats evenly and firmly down to the edges.
- Add festive decorations: While the treats are still warm and slightly sticky, sprinkle red Hots candy or your choice of holiday sprinkles evenly over the top, gently pressing them in so they adhere well.
- Cool and set: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour until firm. Once set, cut into squares or festive shapes as desired.
Notes
- For best results, melt the marshmallows slowly over low heat to avoid burning or seizing.
- If you want a deeper green color, add food coloring a few drops at a time until you reach your preferred shade.
- Use salted butter to add a subtle savory balance, but unsalted butter can be substituted with a pinch of salt added.
- Press the mixture firmly but gently into the pan to ensure treats hold together without crushing the cereal.
- Use holiday-themed sprinkles or candies to customize these treats to your festive preference.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Keywords: Christmas treats, Rice Krispie treats, holiday snacks, marshmallow treats, festive desserts