Crispy Marshmallow Treats (Printable)

crunchy and gooey treat made with puffed rice cereal and melted marshmallows, ideal for snacking.

# What You'll Need:

→ Base

01 - 6 cups puffed rice cereal (e.g., Rice Krispies)
02 - 4 cups mini marshmallows (approximately 10 oz)
03 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Optional Add-ins

04 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
05 - Pinch of salt

# How to Make It:

01 - Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
02 - In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat.
03 - Add mini marshmallows to the melted butter, stirring constantly until completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
04 - Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if using.
05 - Immediately fold in puffed rice cereal gently until all pieces are evenly coated.
06 - Transfer the mixture to the prepared dish and press evenly with a buttered spatula or wax paper without compacting too firmly.
07 - Allow to cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour before cutting into 16 squares and serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Takes exactly 20 minutes from start to finish, including cooling time for a quick win in the kitchen.
  • No oven required, just a saucepan and a willingness to let butter and marshmallows do the heavy lifting.
  • Feeds a crowd or satisfies a solo snack craving without pretension or fussiness.
02 -
  • Never skip the cooling time; cutting while warm results in a sticky, shapeless situation that tastes fine but looks rough.
  • Buttering your spatula or using wax paper prevents sticking during the pressing step and saves frustration.
03 -
  • Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent hot spots that can make marshmallows burn or separate.
  • If your marshmallow mixture starts to set before you finish folding in the cereal, work faster or briefly reheat it over low heat.

Return