These Christmas Rice Crispy Treats are crunchy, gooey, and dressed in cheerful red and green. They come together quickly on the stovetop, set fast, and disappear even faster at holiday gatherings.
Christmas Rice Crispy Treats
Equipment
- 1 9x13-inch baking pan
- 1 Parchment Paper
- 1 Large Pot
- 1 Spatula buttered
- 1 Measuring cups and spoons
- 1 tree-shaped cookie cutter optional
Ingredients
Christmas Rice Crispy Treats
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 10 oz mini marshmallows about 5 cups
- 1 tsp vanilla extract alcohol-free
- 0.125 tsp fine sea salt
- 6 cup crispy rice cereal
- 0.25 cup holiday sprinkles divided
Optional Drizzle
- 4 oz white chocolate melted, for drizzling
Instructions
Make the Treats
- Line a 9x13 inch pan with parchment, leaving overhang for easy lifting. Lightly butter the parchment and a spatula.
- In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter gently, stirring so it does not brown unless you want a toasty flavor.
- Stir in marshmallows and a pinch of salt. Keep the heat low and stir constantly until smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and stir in alcohol-free vanilla.
- Add the crispy rice cereal and most of the sprinkles. Use the buttered spatula to fold until every bit is coated.
- Transfer to the pan. Press gently with the buttered spatula to level without compacting. Scatter remaining sprinkles on top and lightly press so they stick. Add optional white chocolate drizzle.
- Let cool 30 to 45 minutes until set. Lift with parchment and cut into squares or trees with a cookie cutter.
Tips
- Keep the heat low, do not compact the mixture, work quickly after adding the cereal, and grease tools to prevent sticking.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Rice Crispy Treats
- Fast no-bake dessert that sets in minutes.
- Festive color and sparkle without extra fuss.
- Perfect for cookie trays, parties, and gifting.
- Easy for kids to help make and decorate.
Christmas Rice Crispy Treats Ingredients & Substitutions
- Crispy rice cereal: The classic base. Use fresh cereal for the best crunch.
- Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows melt quickest. Choose plant-based marshmallows or ones made with fish gelatin. If using firmer styles, add an extra tablespoon of butter for smooth melting.
- Unsalted butter: Adds rich flavor and soft bite. Swap with coconut oil or a neutral oil for a dairy-free option.
- Alcohol-free vanilla: A little rounds out the sweetness.
- Fine sea salt: Balances the flavors so the treats taste buttery, not just sweet.
- Holiday sprinkles: Red and green jimmies hold their color best. Avoid nonpareils if possible since they can bleed.
- Optional white chocolate drizzle: Melt and zigzag for extra flair, or use red and green candy melts.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Christmas Rice Crispy Treats
1. Prep the pan
Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment, leaving overhang for easy lifting. Lightly butter the parchment and a spatula.
2. Melt the butter
In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter gently, stirring so it does not brown unless you want a toasty flavor.
3. Add marshmallows
Stir in marshmallows and a pinch of salt. Keep the heat low and stir constantly until smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and stir in alcohol-free vanilla.
4. Fold in cereal
Add the crispy rice cereal and most of the sprinkles. Use the buttered spatula to fold until every bit is coated.
5. Press and decorate
Transfer to the pan. Press gently with the buttered spatula to level without compacting. Scatter remaining sprinkles on top and lightly press so they stick. Add optional white chocolate drizzle.
6. Set and slice
Let cool 30 to 45 minutes until set. Lift with parchment and cut into squares or trees with a cookie cutter.
Tips for Success
- Low heat is key. High heat makes marshmallows tough and the treats turn hard.
- Do not compact. Press just enough to level for a soft, chewy bite.
- Work quickly. Once the cereal goes in, fold and press right away before it firms up.
- Grease tools. A buttered spatula and lightly oiled hands prevent sticking.
- Use fresh marshmallows. Older ones can be dry and grainy.
Variations of Christmas Rice Crispy Treats
- Peppermint crunch: Fold in crushed peppermint candies and drizzle with dark chocolate.
- Chocolate swirl: Stir in 1 cup mini chocolate chips at the very end or drizzle melted chocolate across the top.
- Peanut butter ribbons: Melt 1/2 cup peanut butter with the marshmallows for a nutty twist. Sunflower seed butter works as a nut-free swap.
- Cocoa cereal mix: Use half cocoa crispy cereal and half classic for a marbled look.
- Tree cut-outs: Cut with a tree-shaped cutter and add a chocolate star on top.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Christmas Rice Crispy Treats
- Hot cocoa with whipped cream and crushed candy cane.
- Warm spiced milk or chai.
- Fresh berries or clementines for a bright, juicy contrast.
- Coffee or tea for grown-up dessert plates.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers for 2 to 3 days.
- To keep soft: Add a small piece of bread in the container to maintain moisture. Replace it if it dries out.
- Freezer: Wrap squares individually, then place in a freezer bag for up to 6 weeks. Thaw at room temp for 30 minutes.
- Quick soften: If a square feels firm, microwave 5 to 8 seconds to revive the chew.
Memories Made Around the Table
These are the treats I set out while the lights go on the tree. Little hands press in extra sprinkles, someone sneaks a corner piece, and suddenly the kitchen smells like butter and celebration. Simple, sweet, and pure holiday magic.
FAQs
Why did my treats turn hard?
They likely heated too hot or were pressed too firmly. Keep the heat low, remove the pot as soon as the marshmallows melt, and press gently.
Can I use plant-based marshmallows?
Yes. They melt a bit thicker, so stir in an extra tablespoon of butter or oil for a smooth mixture.
How do I prevent sprinkles from bleeding?
Use jimmies, stir most in at the end off heat, and reserve some to press on top after spreading.
Can I make these ahead?
Yes. Make up to 2 days in advance and store airtight at room temp. For longer storage, freeze and thaw before serving.
Final Thoughts
Keep it low and slow, press gently, and shower with festive sprinkles. These Christmas Rice Crispy Treats are the quickest way to add sparkle to any holiday spread.