Name: Chocolate Rice Krispies Treats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love Chocolate Rice Krispies Treats because they offer the perfect balance of crunchy, chewy, and chocolatey goodness. The addition of melted chocolate makes them even more indulgent, while still keeping the simplicity and nostalgic appeal of the original Rice Krispies treats. Whether you’re craving a sweet snack, preparing treats for a party, or just need a quick dessert, these chocolatey Rice Krispies treats are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

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

Directions

Prepare the pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or spray it with cooking spray. Set aside.
Melt the chocolate and butter: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chocolate chips and stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Melt the marshmallows: Add the marshmallows to the saucepan and continue stirring until the marshmallows are fully melted and combined with the chocolate and butter mixture.
Mix with the Rice Krispies: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until it’s evenly coated with the chocolate-marshmallow mixture.
Transfer to the pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to press the mixture evenly into the pan. Be careful not to press too hard to avoid crushing the Rice Krispies.
Cool and set: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until they are set. Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles.
Serve and enjoy: Enjoy your Chocolate Rice Krispies Treats! They can be served immediately or stored for later.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12-16 squares, depending on how large you slice them. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooling time is around 30 minutes, for a total time of about 40 minutes.

Variations

Chocolate-covered Rice Krispies Treats: After pressing the mixture into the pan, melt extra chocolate and pour it over the top of the treats for a chocolate-covered finish.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Rice Krispies: Add 1/2 cup of peanut butter to the chocolate-butter mixture for a peanut butter twist on this classic treat.
S’mores Rice Krispies: Add mini marshmallows and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers to the mixture for a s’mores-inspired version.
Mint Chocolate Rice Krispies: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a minty twist, perfect for the holiday season.
Add candy: For a fun variation, mix in M&Ms, candy pieces, or chocolate chunks after the Rice Krispies are mixed with the marshmallow-chocolate mixture.

Storage/Reheating

Store your Chocolate Rice Krispies Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If they start to soften, you can pop them in the fridge for a bit to firm them up again. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. To thaw, leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate for semi-sweet chocolate, but the treats will be sweeter. Adjust the sweetness by using less sugar if you prefer.

2. Can I make these without marshmallows?

Yes, you can make an alternative version using peanut butter or other sweeteners as a binding agent. The texture will be slightly different, but still delicious.

3. Can I use a different cereal?

Yes, you can substitute Rice Krispies with other cereals such as Cornflakes, Cheerios, or even gluten-free cereals to suit dietary needs.

4. Can I add nuts to these treats?

Yes, you can add chopped nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or pecans to the mixture for extra crunch and flavor.

5. Can I make these treats ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these treats a day or two ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to serve.

6. How can I make these treats firmer?

To make them firmer, use a little less butter or marshmallows, or press the mixture into the pan more firmly. You can also refrigerate them after they’ve cooled to set them.

Conclusion

Chocolate Rice Krispies Treats are a simple, nostalgic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a quick snack or as a fun treat to share with friends and family, these chocolatey, gooey squares are sure to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. With endless ways to customize the flavor, these treats are always a hit and are sure to become a go-to favorite!