Name: Red, White, and Blue Rice Krispie Treats: A Fun and Festive Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 16-ounce bag mini marshmallows (divided); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal; ¾ cup holiday M&Ms (divided); 1 tablespoon holiday sprinkles; ¼ cup red candy melts (optional); ¼ cup white candy melts (optional); ¼ cup blue candy melts (optional)

Red, White, and Blue Rice Krispie Treats: A Fun and Festive Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Rice Krispie Treats are not only simple to make but also bring a burst of color and fun to any occasion. The festive red, white, and blue candy melts, paired with chewy Rice Krispies and creamy marshmallows, create the perfect blend of sweetness and texture. The added M&Ms and sprinkles make them even more fun and delicious, ensuring that these treats will be a hit at any holiday gathering. Plus, with just 40 minutes from start to finish, these treats are quick and easy to prepare!

Ingredients

6 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ teaspoon kosher salt
16-ounce bag mini marshmallows (divided)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
¾ cup holiday M&Ms (divided)
1 tablespoon holiday sprinkles
¼ cup red candy melts (optional)
¼ cup white candy melts (optional)
¼ cup blue candy melts (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Baking Dish: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add all but 1 cup of the mini marshmallows. Reduce heat to low and stir until completely melted.
Add Vanilla and Cereal: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Add the Rice Krispies cereal and the remaining 1 cup of marshmallows. Gently fold everything together until well combined.
Add M&Ms and Press into Pan: Gently fold in ½ cup of the M&Ms. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining M&Ms and add the holiday sprinkles on top. Gently press them into the treats with your fingertips.
Allow to Set: Let the Rice Krispie Treats set for 30 minutes to cool and firm up. Once set, remove from the pan and cut them into squares.
Melt Candy Melts: In separate microwave-safe bowls, melt the red, white, and blue candy melts in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until fully melted.
Decorate: Drizzle the melted candy over the top of the cut Rice Krispie treats. Allow the candy melts to set before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 16 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Additional Time: 30 minutes (for setting)
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use different cereals: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using a different cereal like Cocoa Krispies for a twist on the flavor.
Add other mix-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
Vegan version: For a vegan option, use dairy-free butter and marshmallows, and opt for plant-based candy melts.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating: These treats are best enjoyed fresh, but you can lightly microwave them for a few seconds if they’ve become too firm.

FAQs

1. Can I make these treats without the candy melts?

Yes, you can make them without the candy melts. The M&Ms and sprinkles still provide enough festive color and sweetness.

2. Can I use different colors of candy melts?

Yes! Feel free to use any color of candy melts that fit the occasion, like green for St. Patrick’s Day or pink for Valentine’s Day.

3. How can I prevent the Rice Krispies from sticking to my hands?

To prevent sticking, wet your fingers with water before gently pressing the mixture into the pan.

4. Can I freeze Rice Krispie Treats?

Yes, you can freeze Rice Krispie Treats. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to 1 month.

5. Can I make Rice Krispie Treats ahead of time?

Yes, these treats can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

6. What size pan do I need for this recipe?

For best results, use a 9×13-inch pan to get the perfect thickness for your Rice Krispie Treats.

7. Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes, you can use regular marshmallows. Just make sure to measure out 16 ounces, which is about 40 regular marshmallows.

8. How long do I need to let the treats set before cutting them?

Let the Rice Krispie Treats set for at least 30 minutes to allow them to cool and firm up.

9. Can I add more marshmallows to the recipe?

If you like your Rice Krispies to be extra chewy, you can add an additional ½ cup of marshmallows to the recipe.

10. Can I use homemade marshmallow fluff instead of regular marshmallows?

Yes, homemade marshmallow fluff can be used, but it will change the texture slightly. It might make the treats softer.

Conclusion

These Red, White, and Blue Rice Krispie Treats are the perfect sweet, colorful addition to your Fourth of July festivities. Simple to make and bursting with patriotic spirit, they’re sure to become a hit at any summer celebration. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Red, White, and Blue Rice Krispie Treats: A Fun and Festive Recipe