The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the spirit than with a batch of festive treats? While traditional sugar cookies and fudge are always a hit, this year why not try something new and fun? Enter the humble Rice Krispie treat, elevated to new heights with creative flavor combinations and merry making shapes.
From classic peppermint bark to spicy gingerbread and sweet caramel apple, we’ve gathered 20 of the most mouthwatering Christmas Rice Crispy recipes out there. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, these treats are sure to bring joy to your holiday gatherings. So grab your marshmallows, butter, and festive sprinkles – it’s time to get baking!
Peppermint Chocolate Rice Crispy Treats
Looking for a sweet treat that’s perfect for the holiday season? These Peppermint Chocolate Rice Crispy Treats are an easy and delicious way to get into the festive spirit.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
– 2 cups marshmallows
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (optional)
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Grease a large pot or saucepan with butter.
2. Melt the butter and marshmallows over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract until well combined.
4. Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the pot and stir until coated.
5. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or over low heat. Spread over the Rice Krispy treats.
7. If using, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of the chocolate layer.
Cooking Time: None! These treats are ready to be enjoyed immediately.
Eggnog Flavored Rice Crispy Squares
Kick off the holiday season with these sweet and crunchy treats infused with the warm, comforting flavors of eggnog.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (cooled)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup eggnog-flavored instant pudding mix
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooled rice, melted butter, granulated sugar, eggnog-flavored pudding mix, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
6. Cut into squares and dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gingerbread Spiced Rice Crispy Bites
Get cozy with these crispy rice bites infused with the warmth of gingerbread spices, perfect for a quick snack or as a topping for your favorite soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Pinch of black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, grated ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well until combined.
3. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and black pepper to the rice mixture. Stir until the mixture forms a dough.
4. Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cranberry White Chocolate Rice Crispy Treats
These treats combine the classic rice crispy recipe with the sweetness of white chocolate and the tartness of cranberries, creating a unique and delicious snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir until they are completely melted.
2. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
3. Add the Rice Krispies cereal and stir until the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
4. Fold in the chopped cranberries and honey.
5. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Spread over the Rice Krispie mixture.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake recipe!
Candy Cane Crunch Rice Crispy Bars
These festive bars combine the classic flavors of Rice Krispies treats with the magic of candy canes. Perfect for holiday parties or as a fun snack for kids.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (about 6-8 canes)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and add the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir until well coated.
4. Fold in the crushed candy canes.
5. Press the mixture into a 9×9-inch pan lined with parchment paper.
6. Let cool and harden for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on melting marshmallows)
Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Rice Crispy Treats
Warm up with these gooey Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Rice Crispy Treats!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/2 cup hot cocoa mix
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter or margarine, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter or margarine over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the hot cocoa mix, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
4. Add the Rice Krispies cereal and stir until the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
5. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Let cool for about 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: About 30 minutes
Christmas Tree Shaped Rice Crispy Cones
Bring a festive touch to your holiday gatherings with these adorable Christmas tree shaped rice crispy cones! Perfect for snacking or decorating, they’re an easy and fun treat to make.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups rice cereal
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– Green food coloring (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted.
2. Remove from heat and add the rice cereal. Stir until well combined and coated with the marshmallow mixture.
3. If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring to tint the mixture green for a Christmas tree effect.
4. Press the mixture into a cone-shaped mold or a Christmas tree cookie cutter. Let cool and harden completely.
5. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Rice Crispy Squares
Warm up with a sweet and spicy treat that combines the flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg with crispy rice squares.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cooked rice, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract to the rice mixture. Mix until well combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each square.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Caramel Apple Rice Crispy Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a snack or dessert. Crunchy rice cereal bars coated in caramel and topped with crispy apple pieces will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of rice cereal
– 1 cup of light corn syrup
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of water
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup of chopped apples (any variety)
– 1 tablespoon of butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the melted butter and mix well.
5. Pour the caramel mixture over the rice cereal and stir until coated.
6. Fold in the chopped apples.
7. Press the mixture into a lined or greased 8-inch square baking dish. Let cool and set for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including cooling time)
Peanut Butter and Jelly Rice Crispy Treats
Combine the nostalgia of childhood with the simplicity of Rice Krispie treats by adding creamy peanut butter and fruity jelly to create a deliciously unique snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons grape or strawberry jelly
– Optional: sprinkles, chopped nuts, or sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the peanut butter and stir until smooth and well combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
4. Fold in the jelly until it’s fully incorporated into the cereal mixture.
5. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or shape into desired form.
6. Let cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (preparing the treat) + cooling time
Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Bars
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these decadent bars that combine the crunch of Rice Krispies cereal, the creaminess of peanut butter, and the richness of melted chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the peanut butter and stir until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
4. Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the peanut butter mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
7. Pour the melted chocolate over the rice cereal mixture and smooth out evenly.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on oven temperature)
Orange Cranberry Rice Crispy Treats
Orange Cranberry Rice Crispy Treats: A sweet and tangy twist on a classic snack!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the marshmallows and honey over low heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the orange marmalade until well combined.
3. Add the dried cranberries and stir until they’re evenly distributed.
4. Pour the mixture into a large bowl with the Rice Krispies cereal.
5. Stir until the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow-cranberry mixture.
6. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Almond Joy Inspired Rice Crispy Squares
Take a trip to the islands with these bite-sized treats that combine the classic flavors of Almond Joy bars with the simplicity of rice crispy squares. Perfect for snacking on-the-go or as a fun addition to your next potluck.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (such as Ghirardelli)
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon shredded coconut
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
3. Pour in Rice Krispies cereal and stir until well coated.
4. Fold in chopped chocolate chips, sliced almonds, and shredded coconut.
5. Press mixture into a 9×9 inch pan lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on the speed of your melting)
Enjoy your tropical treat!
Maple Pecan Rice Crispy Bites
Maple Pecan Rice Crispy Bites Recipe
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these sweet and crunchy bites, perfect for snacking or as a topping for salads or yogurt parfaits.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (cooled)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cooled rice, sugar, maple syrup, and salt until well combined.
3. Stir in chopped pecans and honey until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
4. Drop small balls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1-inch (2.5 cm) apart.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Allow to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chai Spiced Rice Crispy Treats
Transform traditional Rice Krispie treats into a cozy and aromatic dessert perfect for the fall season. This recipe combines the classic marshmallow treat with the warm, comforting spices of chai.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 oz (340g) marshmallows
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
2. Add marshmallows, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and salt.
4. Add Rice Krispies cereal and stir until well combined.
5. Press mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Let cool and set before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: About 30 minutes to an hour
Red Velvet Rice Crispy Squares
Add a pop of color and flavor to your snack game with these Red Velvet Rice Crispy Squares. With their deep red hue and subtle cocoa flavor, they’re perfect for parties or as a treat for the kids.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup crushed red velvet cake mix (or 2 tablespoons cocoa powder and 1 tablespoon sugar)
– Optional: sprinkles or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and add red food coloring, vanilla extract, and crushed cake mix (or cocoa powder and sugar). Stir until well combined.
4. Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the pot and stir until evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
5. Press the mixture into a lined or greased 8-inch square baking dish.
6. Allow to cool and harden before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake recipe!
White Chocolate Raspberry Rice Crispy Bites
These White Chocolate Raspberry Rice Crispy Bites are an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. Crunchy rice cereal meets creamy white chocolate and sweet-tart raspberries for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen raspberries, thawed
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the white chocolate chips over low heat.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the honey and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the melted white chocolate mixture and stir until well coated.
4. Fold in the raspberries.
5. Spoon the mixture into small balls or clusters, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes chilling time)
Lemon Poppy Seed Rice Crispy Treats
Lemon Poppy Seed Rice Crispy Treats: A Bright and Cheery Snack
These bite-sized treats combine the warmth of rice with the brightness of lemon and the crunch of poppy seeds, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a party snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine rice, sugar, honey, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Fold in chopped nuts, if using.
4. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
5. Sprinkle poppy seeds on top of the mixture.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Toasted Coconut Rice Crispy Bars
Elevate the humble Rice Crispie treat by adding the warm, nutty flavor of toasted coconut. These chewy bars are perfect for a quick snack or party favor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and toasted coconut flakes.
4. Quickly add the Rice Krispies cereal and stir until well coated.
5. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Allow to cool and set before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cherry Almond Rice Crispy Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of cherries with the crunch of almonds and the comforting warmth of cooked rice. Perfect for a quick snack or as an addition to your favorite dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cherries (such as Bing or Rainier)
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cooked rice, sugar, cherries, and almonds. Mix until well combined.
3. Add the melted butter and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each bite.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned and crispy on the edges.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to deck the halls with these festive Christmas rice crispy treat recipes! From peppermint chocolate to gingerbread spiced, there’s something for everyone. Try making eggnog flavored rice crispy squares or cranberry white chocolate treats. Or go bold with candy cane crunch bars or hot cocoa marshmallow treats. For a fun twist, shape your rice crispies into Christmas trees or cones. And don’t forget the classics – pumpkin spice, caramel apple, and peanut butter and jelly are all on the list. Whatever your taste, these 20 festive recipes will make your holiday season merry and bright!
