Have a look at the all the goodies we recently received from Kellogg’s; we’re going to use them to make some yummy Rice Krispie Treats for Halloween for family and friends. If you have little ones at home, this is a simple, delicious and inexpensive way to involve them and share some Halloween love!
My “little pumpkins” are now “big pumpkins” but that doesn’t mean we still can’t have Halloween fun by making some tempting little treats!
For these treats we made the classic, original, no-bake squares using the recipe found on the Kellogg’s site.
After mixing the square ingredients together we piled it on a parchment lined sheet pan and smoothed them out evenly with a buttered spatula. {buttering the spatula made it a breeze to smooth the squares}
We then proceeded to cut out some cute little bats and pumpkins {we buttered the inside of the cutters too} as well as some square shapes to decorate using some cute candies.
The finished product was some delightful Halloween treats for my daughter to take to work and share with her colleagues.
Even though kids adore these treats, adults find them equally irresistible. In fact, I heard that it took less than 30 minutes for these tasty treats to be gobbled up by some “big pumpkins.”
How to prepare the Rice Krispie treats
Click here to get printable version
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter or margarine
- 1 package (10 oz., about 40 regular marshmallows or 4 cups miniature marshmallows)
- 6 cups Kellogg’s Rice Krispies cereal
Directions
Stovetop Method:
- Start by gently melting the butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Add the marshmallows to the pan, stirring them constantly until they melt completely and the mixture becomes smooth. Remove the pan from the heat after melting everything.
- Mix the Rice Krispies cereal into the marshmallow mixture, ensuring you coat each piece of cereal evenly with the gooey marshmallow blend.
- Lightly grease a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Then, transfer the cereal mixture into the dish. Press the mixture down evenly across the bottom of the dish using a spatula or wax paper that you’ve lightly buttered. Let the treats cool at room temperature to set. After cooling, cut them into 2-inch squares for serving. These treats taste best on the day you make them.
Microwave Method:
- Put the butter and marshmallows in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave them on HIGH for 3 minutes, stopping to stir after 2 minutes, until you achieve a completely smooth mixture and the marshmallows melt entirely. Since microwave ovens vary, you might need to adjust the time.
- For adding the Rice Krispies cereal, pressing the mixture into the pan, cooling, and cutting into squares, follow steps 2 and 3 from the stovetop method.
Additional Tips:
- Always use fresh marshmallows to get the best texture and flavor.
- You can substitute 7 oz. of marshmallow crème for regular marshmallows if you prefer.
- Steer clear of low-fat, diet, or tub margarines since they can alter the consistency of the treats.
- Keep the treats at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days. To store them longer, freeze the treats. Put them in a container with layers separated by wax paper and freeze for up to 6 weeks. Thaw them at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
- Frequent Asked Questions:
How long should I wait before cutting into Rice Krispie Treats?
For the best texture, wait at least 30 minutes before cutting into Rice Krispie Treats, allowing the marshmallow and butter to cool. Ideally, wait an hour for treats to fully set. However, if you’re in a hurry, a 30-minute wait is sufficient, though not optimal.
How many marshmallows do I need for Rice Krispie Treats?
For a smaller batch, you’ll need about 10 ounces of marshmallows, and for a larger batch, about 16 ounces. This roughly translates to 40 regular-sized marshmallows or 6 cups of mini marshmallows for 10 ounces, and 68 regular-sized or just over 9 cups of mini marshmallows for 16 ounces.
Can I make Rice Krispie Treats with marshmallow fluff?
Yes, you can use marshmallow fluff, but the texture will differ from treats made with marshmallows. Treats with fluff won’t have the same chewiness.
Why are my Krispie Treats hard?
Hard treats are often the result of overheating the marshmallows. Whether on the stove or in the microwave, keeping the heat low is crucial to avoid turning the sugar in marshmallows into hard candy. Recipes suggesting a long microwave time can lead to very hard treats.
How can I soften hard Rice Krispie Treats?
To soften them, you can microwave a treat for 5-10 seconds or use a few slices of white bread placed in the container with the treats to add moisture.
Should Rice Krispie Treats be refrigerated?
No, it’s not necessary to refrigerate them. They are best cooled at room temperature. However, if you’re in a hurry, you can chill them in the fridge for a short time.
How long do Rice Krispie Treats last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they can stay fresh for up to a week if made with salted butter. They taste best within the first few days.
Can Rice Krispie Treats be frozen?
Yes, wrap them in non-stick foil or wax paper, place in an airtight container or zip-top bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for at least an hour before serving.
Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten-free?
This depends on the specific ingredients used. Traditional Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Cereal is not gluten-free, but there are gluten-free crispy rice cereals available. Ensure all other ingredients, like marshmallows and butter, are gluten-free as well.
Can I use stale marshmallows for theseTreats?
While you technically can, it’s not recommended. Stale marshmallows may not melt as well and can lead to harder treats. Fresh marshmallows are best for a soft, chewy texture.
How can I add flavors or mix-ins to Rice Krispie Treats?
Adding ingredients like sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or almond extract can introduce new flavors and textures. Experimenting with these add-ins can personalize your treats
Rice Krispie treats for Halloween
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter or margarine
- 1 package 10 oz., about 40 regular marshmallows (or 4 cups miniature marshmallows)
- 6 cups Kellogg's Rice Krispies cereal
Instructions
- In large saucepan melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat.
- Add KELLOGG'S RICE KRISPIES cereal. Stir until well coated.
- Using buttered spatula or wax paper evenly press mixture into 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan coated with cooking spray. Cool. Cut into 2-inch squares. Best if served the same day.
MICROWAVE DIRECTIONS:
- In microwave-safe bowl heat butter and marshmallows on HIGH for 3 minutes, stirring after 2 minutes. Stir until smooth. Follow steps 2 and 3 above. Microwave cooking times may vary.
Notes
-1 jar (7 oz.) marshmallow crème can be substituted for marshmallows.
-Diet, reduced calorie or tub margarine is not recommended.
-Store no more than two days at room temperature in airtight container.
-To freeze, place in layers separated by wax paper in airtight container. Freeze for up to 6 weeks. Let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
