Forget the ordinary Rice Krispie treats you find on the back of the box—there’s a whole world of recipes out there waiting to be explored! While many recipes may seem similar, we’ve discovered the secrets to creating the softest, chewiest, and most marshmallow-filled treats every time. Once you try these, you might find it hard to go back to the packaged version.
Here’s how to make the best Rice Krispie treats:
- Load up on marshmallows! Using twice as much marshmallow ensures your treats turn out chewy instead of stiff, making them easy to pull apart instead of breaking. Cooking the marshmallows a little longer after melting gives your treats a delightful caramelized flavor. Keep cooking until the marshmallows turn a golden hue—the longer you wait, the richer the flavor.
- Don’t forget the salt. A pinch of salt balances out the sweetness and adds a subtle savory note that enhances all the flavors.
- Be gentle when packing the pan. After pouring in the Rice Krispies, smooth the top without applying too much pressure. Overpacking leads to hard, dense treats that nobody enjoys. Use a silicone spatula or parchment paper to smooth the top without pressing too hard.
Elevate your treats to the next level:
For an extra flavor boost, try browning the butter before adding the marshmallows. Brown butter adds a nutty, rich flavor that’s simply irresistible. If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with mix-ins like Reese’s, Oreos, or strawberries for a unique twist.
Storage:
With a bit of self-control, these treats will stay fresh for a few days in an airtight container on the counter. Avoid chilling them, as they’ll become too hard to enjoy.
Rice Krispie Treats
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 1x
- Category: Dessert
Ingredients
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing the pan
- 2 12-ounce bags marshmallows
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 10 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Instructions
- Step 1: Grease a 13″x9″ baking pan with butter. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add marshmallows and salt, stirring until melted and smooth. Continue cooking until marshmallows turn slightly golden, about 5 minutes more. Remove from heat and stir in Rice Krispies.
- Step 2: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top without packing the Rice Krispies too tightly. Let it cool completely before slicing and serving.
