Save Pin Crispy cereal meets gooey marshmallow, then gets drenched in rich, glossy chocolate and finished with colorful sprinkles. Each bite of these Chocolate Covered Rice Krispy Treats is a delightful harmony of crunch and melt—perfect for parties or sharing at any gathering. This easy American dessert takes a nostalgic favorite and upgrades it with a decadent chocolate topping that makes it impossible to resist.
Save Pin Preparation is quick and straightforward, requiring only 15 minutes of hands-on work and another 15 minutes on the stove. While the treats need a bit of time to rest and set, the result is a professional-looking bar with clean cuts and a beautiful glossy finish. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned baker, these treats are a foolproof way to satisfy a sweet craving.
Ingredients
- Base
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
- 1 package (10 ounces) mini marshmallows
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt (optional)
- Chocolate Topping
- 1 ½ cups semisweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil or coconut oil
- Garnish
- 2 tablespoons rainbow sprinkles or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Lightly grease an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch square baking pan with butter.
- Step 2
- In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter, stirring constantly to prevent browning.
- Step 3
- Add mini marshmallows and continue stirring until completely melted and smooth.
- Step 4
- Remove from heat and stir in sea salt if using.
- Step 5
- Add Rice Krispies cereal and gently fold with a spatula until evenly coated.
- Step 6
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Using a buttered spatula or hands, press the mixture evenly and firmly into the pan.
- Step 7
- Let sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Step 8
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and oil. Microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and glossy.
- Step 9
- Pour the melted chocolate over the cooled Rice Krispy layer. Spread evenly with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Step 10
- Immediately sprinkle with rainbow sprinkles or chopped nuts if desired.
- Step 11
- Allow the treats to set at room temperature for at least 1 hour, or refrigerate for 20–30 minutes until the chocolate is firm.
- Step 12
- Once set, lift the block from the pan using parchment overhang (if used) or invert onto a cutting board. Cut into 12–16 bars with a sharp knife.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To enhance the flavor profile, consider stirring a half-teaspoon of vanilla extract into the melted marshmallow mixture before adding the cereal. For a smooth, professional chocolate finish, allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly to about 88°F (31°C) before pouring it over the base. Using low heat for the marshmallow mixture is key to keeping the bars soft and chewy rather than hard.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily adapt this recipe for different holidays by using white chocolate and pastel sprinkles. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch and a salty-sweet contrast, swap the rainbow sprinkles for chopped nuts. Always ensure you check ingredient labels if you are serving guests with allergen sensitivities, especially concerning gluten in the cereal or soy in the chocolate chips.
Serviervorschläge
These treats are best served once the chocolate has fully set. For the cleanest cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it between slices. Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. They make a wonderful addition to a dessert platter or can be individually wrapped for lunchbox surprises.
Save Pin With their delightful crunch and rich chocolate topping, these Chocolate Covered Rice Krispy Treats are a guaranteed hit for any occasion. They provide a satisfying 300 calories per serving and are a wonderful example of how a few simple ingredients can create something truly special. Enjoy your homemade treats!
Recipe FAQs
- → How long do chocolate-covered Rice Krispie treats stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. The chocolate may develop a slight bloom if chilled but this won't affect taste.
- → Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely. White chocolate creates a stunning contrast, milk chocolate offers classic sweetness, or try dark chocolate for a sophisticated bittersweet finish. Each variety works beautifully with the marshmallow base.
- → Why add oil to the melted chocolate?
The vegetable or coconut oil helps the chocolate achieve a smooth, pourable consistency and creates a glossy finish that sets firmly without becoming too hard or brittle to bite through.
- → Should I press the cereal mixture firmly or gently?
Press firmly but gently into the pan using buttered hands or a spatula. You want the bars to hold their shape when cut, but pressing too tightly makes them dense and tough rather than light and crispy.
- → Can I make these ahead for a party?
These are perfect for preparing 1-2 days in advance. Cut them just before serving to maintain their fresh appearance, or wrap individual portions in parchment paper for easy grab-and-go treats.
- → What's the best way to get clean cuts?
Let the chocolate set completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator before cutting. Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts, and apply firm downward pressure rather than sawing motions.