Rice Krispies is a popular breakfast cereal known for its distinctive snap, crackle, and pop sounds when milk is added. It is also known as Rice Krispie Treats or Rice Bubble Bars in some regions, are a classic and simple dessert made primarily from three main ingredients: Rice Krispies cereal, marshmallows, and butter. They are known for their crispy and chewy texture, and they are often shaped into bars or squares. Here’s a basic recipe for Rice Krispies treats:
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 4 cups mini marshmallows (or about 40 regular-sized marshmallows)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
Optional Add-Ins:
- A pinch of salt (if using unsalted butter)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for extra flavor
- 1/2 cup of your favorite mix-ins (chocolate chips, M&M’s, dried fruit, nuts, etc.)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pan:
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- Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Melt the Butter:
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- In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. If you’re using unsalted butter, you can add a pinch of salt at this stage for flavor.
- Add the Marshmallows:
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- Once the butter is melted, add the mini marshmallows (or regular-sized marshmallows) to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Optional Flavoring:
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- If you’d like, stir in the vanilla extract at this point for extra flavor.
- Mix in the Cereal:
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- Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately add the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir well until the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Add Optional Mix-Ins:
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- If you’re using any optional mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit, gently fold them into the cereal mixture while it’s still warm.
- Press into the Pan:
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- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use a greased spatula or your hands (you can also use a piece of wax paper) to firmly press the mixture down into the pan, making it even.
- Cool and Cut:
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- Allow the Rice Krispies treats to cool and set for at least 30 minutes. You can speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator.
- Cut into Squares:
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- Once the treats are completely cool and set, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles.
- Serve:
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- Serve and enjoy your homemade Rice Krispies treats!