Why Make This Recipe
Christmas Rice Crispy Treats are a fun and festive way to celebrate the holiday season. They are easy to make, require just a few ingredients, and are the perfect treat to share with family and friends. These delightful treats are not only tasty but also visually appealing, making them a great addition to your holiday gatherings or as gifts. Plus, everyone loves the mix of flavors and textures in these bite-sized goodies!
How to Make Christmas Rice Crispy Treats
Ingredients:
- 3 cups puffed rice cereal
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows (or 1 cup mini marshmallows + 1/4 cup marshmallow fluff)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups white chocolate chips or white chocolate candy melts
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother melting)
- 1/2 cup red, green, and white nonpareils
Directions:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Once melted, add the mini marshmallows and marshmallow fluff. Stir continuously until everything is melted and smooth.
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the puffed rice cereal, mixing until the cereal is fully coated.
- Let it cool for 2 to 3 minutes until warm but safe to handle.
- Lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray. Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. If the mixture is crumbly, press gently to shape each ball.
- Place the shaped balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them cool completely.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips or candy melts in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each round until smooth.
- If the chocolate is thick, stir in 1 tablespoon of coconut oil to loosen the texture.
- Let the melted chocolate sit for a minute or two so it slightly thickens for easier coating.
- Dip each rice krispie ball into the melted white chocolate until fully coated. Use a fork to lift and gently tap off excess chocolate.
- Return the coated balls to the parchment-lined tray and immediately sprinkle with red, green, and white nonpareils before the chocolate sets.
- Allow the coated rice krispie balls to set at room temperature, or place the tray in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes to speed up the process.
- Once the chocolate is firm, transfer the balls to a serving dish or airtight container. Stack neatly to show off the festive colors.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week. If stacking, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
How to Serve Christmas Rice Crispy Treats
Serve these delicious treats as a sweet snack during your holiday gatherings or pack them in festive bags as party favors. They also make great additions to dessert trays or can be served alongside hot cocoa or holiday beverages. With their cheerful colors and delightful taste, they are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces!
How to Store Christmas Rice Crispy Treats
To maintain freshness, store the rice crispy treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Be sure to place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent them from sticking together.
Tips to Make Christmas Rice Crispy Treats
- If you find the mixture too sticky, lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray to shape the balls more easily.
- Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly before coating to prevent it from running off the balls.
- Experiment with different holiday sprinkles or toppings, like crushed peppermint or festive edible glitter, to make them even more fun and vibrant!
Variation
You can switch things up by adding different flavors or colors! For example, instead of white chocolate, try using milk or dark chocolate. You can also mix in mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit for added texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, regular marshmallows can be used. Just cut them into smaller pieces so they melt easily.
2. How long does it take for the treats to set?
If you allow them to cool at room temperature, it usually takes about 30 minutes. You can speed up the process by chilling them in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes.
3. Can I freeze the Rice Crispy Treats?
Yes, you can freeze them! Place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers, and they will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Christmas Rice Crispy Treats
Ingredients
Method
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Once melted, add the mini marshmallows and marshmallow fluff. Stir continuously until everything is melted and smooth.
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the puffed rice cereal, mixing until the cereal is fully coated.
- Let it cool for 2 to 3 minutes until warm but safe to handle.
- Lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray. Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. If the mixture is crumbly, press gently to shape each ball.
- Place the shaped balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them cool completely.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips or candy melts in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each round until smooth.
- If the chocolate is thick, stir in 1 tablespoon of coconut oil to loosen the texture.
- Let the melted chocolate sit for a minute or two so it slightly thickens for easier coating.
- Dip each rice krispie ball into the melted white chocolate until fully coated. Use a fork to lift and gently tap off excess chocolate.
- Return the coated balls to the parchment-lined tray and immediately sprinkle with red, green, and white nonpareils before the chocolate sets.
- Allow the coated rice krispie balls to set at room temperature, or place the tray in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes to speed up the process.
- Once the chocolate is firm, transfer the balls to a serving dish or airtight container. Stack neatly to show off the festive colors.
