Description
These Christmas Rice Krispie Treats are festive, colorful, and quick to make, combining classic marshmallow and cereal with green food coloring and holiday-themed sprinkles or red hots to celebrate the season.
Ingredients
Scale
Marshmallow Mixture
- 6 cups (300 grams) miniature marshmallows
- ¼ cup (57 grams) salted butter
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 10–12 drops green food coloring
Cereal
- 6 cups (168 grams) Rice Krispies cereal
Decorations
- Red hots or holiday sprinkles, as desired
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking of the treats.
- Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large pot over low heat, melt ¼ cup salted butter completely. Add 6 cups miniature marshmallows and stir continuously until the marshmallows are fully melted and smooth.
- Add Flavor and Color: Remove the pot from heat and stir in ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Then add 10-12 drops of green food coloring to tint the marshmallow mixture festive green. Mix well to get an even color.
- Combine with Cereal: Pour 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal into the melted marshmallow mixture. Fold gently but thoroughly with a spatula until the cereal is evenly coated and the mixture is well combined.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Using a buttered spatula or wax paper, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to form an even layer.
- Add Holiday Decorations: Immediately sprinkle red hots or holiday sprinkles evenly over the top and gently press them into the surface to adhere.
- Cool and Set: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes until set and firm. Once set, cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Use a low and steady heat to melt marshmallows to prevent burning.
- Butter your spatula or hands when pressing the mixture into the pan to avoid sticking.
- For a different color theme, adjust the food coloring drops accordingly.
- Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for maximum freshness.
- Use red hots carefully if serving to children sensitive to spicy flavors; holiday sprinkles are a great alternative.
Keywords: Christmas Rice Krispie Treats, holiday treats, marshmallow dessert, green Rice Krispies, festive snacks