Look, if you’ve ever bitten into a dry, rock-hard Rice Krispie treat and thought, “This is disappointing”, I feel you. A good Rice Krispie treat should be soft, chewy, and loaded with buttery, marshmallowy goodness. And guess what? Making them at home is ridiculously easy—like, “why haven’t I been doing this all my life?” easy.
I’ve tested all kinds of tweaks—extra marshmallows, different butters, fancy mix-ins—and I finally landed on a recipe that makes the perfect homemade Rice Krispie treats every single time. No dry, crumbly squares here! Just pure, nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness.
So grab your marshmallows, and let’s get this snack party started.
Why You’ll Love This Rice Krispie Treat Recipe
- Super Soft & Gooey – No dry, rock-hard squares here! Extra marshmallows make them perfectly chewy.
- Ridiculously Easy – Just melt, mix, and press. Takes 10 minutes tops.
- Way Better Than Packaged Ones – Fresh, buttery, and made with love—store-bought can’t compete.
- Customizable Fun – Add peanut butter, chocolate, sprinkles—whatever you’re craving.
Ingredients: Keep It Simple, But Do It Right
You don’t need much for Rice Krispie treats, but using the right ratio is what makes all the difference.
What You’ll Need:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal (brand name or generic, both work!)
- 1 bag (10 oz) mini marshmallows (or 40 regular marshmallows)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (trust me, more butter = better texture)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional but so worth it!)
- ¼ tsp salt (balances the sweetness like magic)
Want extra gooey treats? Add an extra cup of marshmallows—don’t hold back!
Step-by-Step: How to Make Rice Krispie Treats
1. Melt the Butter (Don’t Rush This!)
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over low heat. Low and slow is the key—you don’t want burnt butter ruining your treats. If you want a next-level flavor upgrade, let the butter brown slightly before adding the marshmallows. It adds a deep, nutty taste that’s chef’s kiss.
2. Add Marshmallows & Stir Until Smooth
Once the butter melts, toss in your marshmallows. Keep stirring over low heat until they turn into a silky, melty mixture. Don’t overheat! High heat will make them stiff, which means tough treats. No, thanks.
3. Stir in Vanilla & Salt
Just before you take the pot off the heat, stir in the vanilla and salt. It’s a small step but makes a huge difference.
4. Mix in the Cereal (Gently!)
Take the pot off the heat and add your Rice Krispies. Stir gently—you want every piece coated without crushing the cereal into dust.
5. Press Into a Pan (But Not Too Hard!)
Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, then gently press the mixture in. Pro tip: Grease your hands (or a spatula) with butter or nonstick spray so nothing sticks. Don’t pack it down too firmly unless you like dense treats.
6. Let Them Set & Cut Into Squares
Give them about 30 minutes to set before slicing. Or, if you’re impatient like me, throw them in the fridge for 10 minutes.
Fun Variations: Because Classic Is Great, But…
Sure, the OG Rice Krispie treat is amazing, but sometimes you want to switch it up. Try these fun add-ins:
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream – Stir in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips (or drizzle melted chocolate on top).
- Peanut Butter Bliss – Melt ½ cup peanut butter with the butter for a Reese’s-style vibe.
- S’mores Style – Toss in crushed graham crackers and mini chocolate chunks.
- Birthday Cake Funfetti – Mix in ¼ cup rainbow sprinkles for a colorful twist.
Can You Make Rice Krispie Treats in the Microwave?
Absolutely! If you don’t feel like using the stovetop, the microwave method is a total lifesaver. Just follow these steps:
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt butter and marshmallows together in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. It usually takes about 1.5 to 2 minutes total.
- Once smooth, stir in vanilla and salt.
- Add Rice Krispies cereal and mix until fully coated.
- Press into a buttered or parchment-lined pan and let cool.
Tip: Since microwaves vary, keep an eye on your marshmallows! Overheating makes them stiff, which leads to hard treats. Nobody wants that.
How to Make Rice Krispie Treats Extra Thick
If you love those big, bakery-style Rice Krispie treats, just double the recipe and press it into a 9×9-inch pan instead of a 9×13. This makes them taller and even chewier.
For ultra-thick treats, try using a loaf pan! It creates big, fluffy squares that feel extra indulgent. Just be sure to let them cool completely before cutting so they hold their shape.
My First Time Making Rice Krispie Treats
The first time I made these, I pressed them into the pan way too hard—they turned into cereal bricks. But after tweaking the recipe over the years, I finally nailed the perfect balance of soft, chewy, and buttery.
Now? They’re my go-to for parties, cravings, or just because. And trust me—once you try homemade, there’s no going back!
The Secret to Keeping Rice Krispie Treats Soft for Days
Nothing’s worse than biting into a stale, rock-hard treat. Here’s how to keep them soft and fresh:
✔ Store in an airtight container – Exposure to air dries them out.
✔ Layer with parchment paper – If stacking, prevent them from sticking.
✔ Keep at room temp – The fridge makes them hard! If needed, warm them in the microwave for 5-10 seconds to soften.
✔ Add a slice of bread – Just like with cookies, a slice of fresh bread in the container keeps treats moist. The bread hardens while the treats stay soft!
Rice Krispie Treats for Every Holiday
Why stick to plain squares when you can dress them up for special occasions? Try these fun holiday ideas:
- Halloween – Add orange food coloring & top with candy eyes for “monster” treats.
- Christmas – Drizzle with white chocolate & sprinkle crushed candy canes on top.
- Valentine’s Day – Cut into heart shapes and dip in melted pink chocolate.
- St. Patrick’s Day – Mix in Lucky Charms for a fun, colorful twist.
- Birthdays – Stir in rainbow sprinkles & top with frosting for a “birthday cake” vibe.
Can You Use Flavored Marshmallows?
Yes! Flavored marshmallows add a fun twist to classic Rice Krispie treats. Here are some ideas:
- Strawberry marshmallows = light, fruity flavor
- Chocolate marshmallows = a richer, cocoa-infused treat
- Pumpkin spice marshmallows (seasonal!) = perfect for fall
- Cotton candy marshmallows = fun for kids’ parties
If you go this route, pair them with complementary mix-ins like white chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or nuts.
Can You Make Rice Krispie Treats with Marshmallow Fluff?
If you’re out of regular marshmallows, marshmallow fluff (aka marshmallow creme) works too! The texture will be a bit softer, but still delicious.
How to Substitute Fluff for Marshmallows:
- Use 7 ounces of marshmallow fluff for every 10-ounce bag of marshmallows.
- Stir it into melted butter over low heat.
- Mix in your Rice Krispies and press into a pan as usual.
Since fluff is stickier, lightly grease your spatula (or hands) to press the mixture into the pan easily.
Are Rice Krispie Treats Good for Meal Prep?
Okay, so Rice Krispie treats aren’t exactly a health food, but they are an awesome make-ahead dessert. If you need an easy, grab-and-go snack for lunchboxes, parties, or after-school treats, these hold up well for a few days when stored properly.
For longer storage, wrap them individually and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, just let one sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, and it’s good to go!
Common Rice Krispie Treat Mistakes (And How to Fix Them!)
Even though they’re simple, Rice Krispie treats can still go wrong. Here’s how to avoid common mishaps:
1. Why Are My Rice Krispie Treats Too Hard?
The fix: You probably melted the marshmallows on too high heat. Stick to low and slow for soft, chewy treats.
2. They’re Falling Apart—Help!
The fix: Not enough marshmallow-to-cereal ratio! Adding extra marshmallows (or slightly reducing cereal) keeps them sticky and delicious.
3. They’re Too Sweet for Me.
The fix: Add a pinch more salt! It cuts the sweetness and makes the flavors pop.
4. Can I Use Old Marshmallows?
The fix: I wouldn’t! Old, dry marshmallows won’t melt properly. Fresh is best.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
What Are the Ingredients for Rice Krispie Treats?
Classic Rice Krispie treats only need four simple ingredients:
Rice Krispies cereal – The crunchy base.
Marshmallows – The gooey, sticky binder.
Butter – Adds flavor and keeps them soft.
Vanilla extract (optional) – Gives a deeper, homemade taste.
Some people add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness or mix in chocolate, peanut butter, or sprinkles for extra flavor.
What Is the Secret Ingredient in Rice Krispie Treats?
The secret ingredient to making them extra soft and gooey? More marshmallows and butter than the usual recipe! Most box recipes don’t use enough, which is why store-bought ones feel dry.
For an extra twist, try:
✔ Browned butter – Adds a rich, nutty flavor.
✔ Sweetened condensed milk – Makes them softer and more caramel-like.
✔ A pinch of salt – Cuts the sweetness and enhances the taste.
How to Make Rice Krispie Marshmallow Treats
Melt the butter over low heat in a large pot.
Add the marshmallows and stir until smooth.
Remove from heat and mix in vanilla & salt (if using).
Gently fold in the Rice Krispies until fully coated.
Press into a buttered pan (don’t pack them down too hard!).
Let them cool, then cut into squares and enjoy!
Pro tip: Grease your hands or spatula with butter so nothing sticks!
What Are Rice Krispies Made Of?
Rice Krispies cereal is made from:
Milled rice – The main ingredient, puffed and toasted.
Sugar & salt – For a little flavor.
Barley malt extract – Adds a light sweetness.
Vitamins & minerals – Enriched with iron, B vitamins, and folic acid.
They get their signature crispy texture from a process called puffing, where the rice is cooked, dried, and toasted until it “snaps, crackles, and pops!”
Final Thoughts: You Need These in Your Life
If you’ve never made homemade Rice Krispie treats, you’re seriously missing out. They’re 10x better than store-bought, ridiculously easy, and perfect for any occasion. Just remember—more marshmallows = better treats, don’t skimp on the butter, and low heat is your friend.
Now, go whip up a batch (or two), and thank me later.
Looking for more sweet treats? Check out my Dessert Recipes for even more easy, delicious ideas!
PrintThe Best Rice Krispie Treat Recipe
If you’ve never made homemade Rice Krispie treats, you’re seriously missing out. They’re 10x better than store-bought, ridiculously easy, and perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal (brand name or generic, both work!)
- 1 bag (10 oz) mini marshmallows (or 40 regular marshmallows)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (trust me, more butter = better texture)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional but so worth it!)
- ¼ tsp salt (balances the sweetness like magic)
Instructions
1. Melt the Butter (Don’t Rush This!)
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over low heat. Low and slow is the key—you don’t want burnt butter ruining your treats. If you want a next-level flavor upgrade, let the butter brown slightly before adding the marshmallows. It adds a deep, nutty taste that’s chef’s kiss.
2. Add Marshmallows & Stir Until Smooth
Once the butter melts, toss in your marshmallows. Keep stirring over low heat until they turn into a silky, melty mixture. Don’t overheat! High heat will make them stiff, which means tough treats. No, thanks.
3. Stir in Vanilla & Salt
Just before you take the pot off the heat, stir in the vanilla and salt. It’s a small step but makes a huge difference.
4. Mix in the Cereal (Gently!)
Take the pot off the heat and add your Rice Krispies. Stir gently—you want every piece coated without crushing the cereal into dust.
5. Press Into a Pan (But Not Too Hard!)
Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, then gently press the mixture in. Pro tip: Grease your hands (or a spatula) with butter or nonstick spray so nothing sticks. Don’t pack it down too firmly unless you like dense treats.
6. Let Them Set & Cut Into Squares
Give them about 30 minutes to set before slicing. Or, if you’re impatient like me, throw them in the fridge for 10 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (based on 16 pieces)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 3.5g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 1g
Keywords: Rice Krispie treat recipe