Print

The Best Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 13 reviews

This classic Rice Krispie Treats recipe delivers perfectly chewy, sweet marshmallow-coated cereal bars that are quick and easy to make. Using European salted butter and a blend of melted and unmelted miniature marshmallows, these treats have the ideal texture—soft with a slight chew and just the right amount of sweetness. Optional colorful sprinkles add a fun festive touch, making them perfect for parties, snacks, or school lunches.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 6 Tablespoons salted butter, cut into 6 pieces (preferably European butter)
  • 15 oz miniature marshmallows (approximately 1½ 10-oz bags or 8½ cups)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • 3 Tablespoons colored sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Pan: Lightly grease a 13×9-inch pan with butter or line it with parchment paper. Set it aside while you prepare the mixture.
  2. Melt Butter: Place the butter in the bottom of a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until the butter is completely melted, taking care not to brown it.
  3. Melt Marshmallows: Add 10 oz (about 5½ heaping cups) of the miniature marshmallows to the melted butter. Stir continuously over low heat until the marshmallows are just melted, keeping the heat below medium to prevent the mixture from becoming too hard or grainy.
  4. Add Vanilla and Cereal: Stir in the vanilla extract. Then add the Rice Krispies cereal along with the remaining 5 oz (about 2½ heaping cups) of marshmallows. Stir gently until well combined and the additional marshmallows just begin to melt, maintaining a soft and chewy texture.
  5. Add Sprinkles and Transfer: Sprinkle the colored sprinkles over the mixture, briefly stirring to combine. Immediately transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Use a silicone spatula or your hands to gently pat and evenly press the mixture into the pan, being careful not to over-handle them to maintain softness.
  6. Cool: Allow the Rice Krispie Treats to cool completely at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes before cutting into 20 squares and serving.

Notes

  • Use European salted butter for a richer and more flavorful treat.
  • Keep the heat low when melting marshmallows to prevent hardness.
  • Avoid over-mixing or over-pressing to keep treats soft and chewy.
  • Colored sprinkles are optional, but they add a fun visual element.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.