You see, these Rice Krispie Treats have become somewhat of a tradition in our family. It all started with my youngest, who’s got a sweet tooth the size of Texas. One day, after a long discussion about what treats to make for a cousin’s birthday party, we decided to experiment with our standard recipe. The idea was simple—add some color and a bit more crunch with mini M&Ms. And let me tell you, that was a game changer. The kids loved them so much that they’ve become an essential part of every family gathering ever since.
The best part about making these treats, aside from the satisfying gooey sweetness, is how easy and quick they are to whip up. In just 25 minutes, you can create a dessert that’s not only delightful to eat but also nice to look at. Plus, you get to sneak in a bit of bonding time in the kitchen with the little ones. They love helping out by pouring in the M&Ms and stirring the marshmallow mixture, and the giggles and joy on their faces are truly the icing on the cake—or in this case, the M&Ms on the Rice Krispies!
So, if you’re looking for a surefire way to win over a crowd at your next gathering or just want to create some sweet memories in the kitchen, give these Rice Krispie Treats with M&Ms a try. Trust me, they’ll be a hit, just like they are at our house. Ready to dive into the recipe? Let’s get started and make some delicious treats that’ll surely become a family favorite in your household too.
How to Make Rice Krispie Treats with M&Ms
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Ingredients:
- 8 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 cup cookie butter
- 20 ounces mini marshmallows (about two bags)
- 6 cups crisp rice cereal
- 18-20 ounces mini M&Ms
Directions:
- Begin by placing the mini M&Ms in the freezer as you work on the treat base. This helps them retain their shape.
- Line a 9″x13″ baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large pot, melt the butter and cookie butter over medium heat until smooth and combined.
- Remove from heat and let cool for a couple of minutes. Stir in one bag of marshmallows, mixing until fully melted.
- Add the second bag of marshmallows and the crisp rice cereal, stirring swiftly to combine.
- Gently fold in half of the mini M&Ms, taking care not to overmix.
- Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish using a spatula or greased hands. A piece of parchment paper can help prevent sticking while pressing.
- Sprinkle the remaining M&Ms on top and press them lightly into the surface.
- Let the mixture cool for at least two hours before slicing into 12 squares and serving.
Ingredient Tweaks for Your Pantry
Consider swapping cookie butter with peanut butter or almond butter for a different flavor profile. If you’re out of mini M&Ms, regular M&Ms or chocolate chips work well, too. For those with dietary restrictions, look for vegan marshmallows and replace the butter with a plant-based alternative.
Best Ways to Store Leftover Treats
To keep your Rice Krispie Treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week. For longer storage, place them in the fridge, but allow them to reach room temperature before serving to regain their chewy texture.
Perfect Pairings for Rice Krispie Treats with M&Ms
These treats are delightful on their own, but serving them with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream turns them into a dreamy dessert. Pair with a tall glass of cold milk or a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy treat experience.
Cooking Hacks to Elevate Your Treats
For a more intense flavor, lightly toast the rice cereal before mixing it with the marshmallows. If you want a firmer texture, press the mixture more tightly into the pan. Adding a pinch of sea salt can also enhance the sweetness of the treats.
Adding a Seasonal Spin to Rice Krispie Treats
Incorporate seasonal candies like pastel M&Ms for Easter or red and green ones for Christmas. During autumn, consider adding some pumpkin spice to the marshmallow mixture for a festive twist. Summer is great for adding fresh fruit on top before serving.
FAQs:
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, you can use regular marshmallows if mini marshmallows aren’t available. Simply measure the same weight of marshmallows, and they’ll melt just as well. Keep in mind that mini marshmallows tend to melt more quickly and evenly, so adjust your stirring time accordingly.
What if I don’t have cookie butter?
If cookie butter isn’t on hand, you can substitute it with peanut butter or any nut butter of your choice. These alternatives will still provide a creamy texture and a slightly different but delicious flavor to your Rice Krispie Treats.
How do I prevent the M&Ms from melting?
Placing the M&Ms in the freezer before adding them to the mixture is a great way to prevent them from melting. This step helps maintain their color and texture, ensuring they remain intact and visually appealing in the finished treats.
Can these treats be made vegan?
Absolutely! To make vegan Rice Krispie Treats, use vegan marshmallows and plant-based butter. You can also find vegan chocolate candies to replace the traditional M&Ms. This way, you can enjoy these treats while adhering to a vegan lifestyle.
Are there any gluten-free options?
Yes, you can easily make these treats gluten-free by using a gluten-free crisp rice cereal. Additionally, ensure that the marshmallows and any candies or butters you use are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
What’s the best way to cut the treats?
To cut the treats neatly, use a sharp knife coated with a bit of non-stick spray or butter. This helps prevent sticking and ensures clean cuts. Another trick is to slightly warm the knife under hot water, then dry it before slicing through the treats.
Rice Krispie Treats with M&Ms
Equipment
- 9x13 baking dish
- large pot
Ingredients
- 8 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 cup cookie butter
- 20 ounces mini marshmallows about two bags
- 6 cups crisp rice cereal
- 18-20 ounces mini M&Ms
Instructions
- Start by placing mini M&Ms in the freezer to prevent melting while you prepare the treat base.
- Line a 9-inch by 13-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large pot, melt together butter and cookie butter over medium heat until smooth and completely liquid.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 1-2 minutes. Add one bag of mini marshmallows, stirring until fully melted.
- After the first bag is melted, add the second bag and mix in the crisp rice cereal until combined.
- Gently fold in half of the mini M&Ms, being cautious not to overmix to keep them whole.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Using a spatula or greased fingers, press down evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining M&Ms on top and gently press to embed them into the treat mixture.
- Allow the bars to cool for at least 2 hours before cutting them into 12 squares for serving.
