Can I use regular Lucky Charms instead of mini marshmallows?

The cereal already contains marshmallows. Use additional mini marshmallows if you want extra gooey texture and to help bind the mixture.

My treats are dry and crumbly—what went wrong?

You likely didn’t use enough marshmallow—or you pressed too hard. Add a few extra marshmallows, reheat gently to meld, and press lightly.

Can I make these without the green food coloring?

Totally. They still count as festive Saint Patrick Day Food Ideas Fun —the Lucky Charms colors do the job.

How do I make cleaner cuts?

Let the pan chill, then use a large sharp knife warmed in hot water. Wipe and re-warm between cuts.

Are these suitable for school parties?

Usually yes, but check for school rules on allergens—these contain dairy and may also have gluten.

St. Patrick’s Day Treats: Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Squares That Kids (and Adults) Will Devour 9am Chef

Description

Cheerful, no-bake cereal bars loaded with Lucky Charms and Rice Krispies, melted marshmallows, and a pop of green—easy to make, kid-approved, and perfect for St. Patrick’s Day snacks or lunchbox treats.

Ingredients

Scale

5 cups Lucky Charms cereal (+ extra marshmallows for garnish)
4 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1 (10.5 oz) bag mini marshmallows
5 teaspoons salted butter
Green gel food coloring (optional)

Instructions

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan with butter and set it aside so you’re ready to press the mixture in.
Place the mini marshmallows in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts (about 15–20 seconds), stirring between bursts until the marshmallows begin to soften and lose their shape—don’t overcook.
In a separate bowl, warm the butter in the microwave until mostly melted. Add the butter into the marshmallows, then return the marshmallow-butter mix to the microwave for another 15–20 seconds so everything blends smoothly. Stir well.
If you want green bars, stir a few drops of green gel into the hot marshmallow mixture now. Add more a little at a time until you get the hue you like. Gel coloring gives deep color without thinning the mix.
Add the Rice Krispies and stir until the cereal is evenly coated. Fold in the Lucky Charms last so the marshmallow shapes stay visually bright. Mix gently but thoroughly.
Transfer the cereal mix to the prepared pan. Use a buttered rubber spatula or buttered hands to press the mixture into an even layer—press firmly enough to hold, but not so hard the bars become rock solid.
Scatter extra marshmallows on top if you like, then pop the pan in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set.
Slice into 12 squares (or 8 for larger portions) and serve.

Notes

Handy notes & tips
- Microwave times vary—heat in short intervals and stir often to avoid scorching.
- It’s okay if the butter isn’t fully liquid before adding it to the marshmallows; it will finish melting when combined.
- Add food coloring to the marshmallows before mixing in the cereal if you want precise control over the shade of green.
- Press the mixture lightly but evenly—too much force makes dense bars.
- For cleaner slices, chill fully and wipe your knife between cuts or warm the blade under hot water and dry it before slicing.
- FYI: These store best in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two; refrigerate on warm days.