Sweet Cherry Rice Krispie Treats Recipe: Juicy Snack Magic

Crafting the perfect sweet snack takes creativity and a dash of childhood nostalgia.

These cherry rice krispie treats bring a delightful twist to the classic marshmallow dessert.

Bursts of vibrant red cherries dance through gooey, crispy squares that promise pure delight.

The unexpected fruity blend transforms an ordinary treat into something extraordinary.

Soft marshmallows and crisp cereal create a magical backdrop for the bright cherry flavor.

Each bite delivers a playful combination of textures that will make you smile.

Prepare to indulge in a dessert that brings joy with every delicious morsel.

Cherry Rice Krispie Treats What’s to Love

• Minimal ingredients and simple steps make these cherry Rice Krispie treats a breeze to prepare for busy home cooks.
• Introducing cherry gelatin transforms classic Rice Krispie treats into a vibrant, unexpected dessert that surprises taste buds.
• Dark chocolate topping elevates these treats from basic to gourmet, making them perfect for gatherings or unexpected sweet cravings.
• Adaptable recipe allows for potential variations like different gelatin flavors or chocolate types, giving bakers creative freedom.

Cherry Rice Krispie Treat Ingredients

• Unsalted Butter: Provides rich flavor and helps bind the treats together.
• Mini Marshmallows: Creates the sticky, sweet base that holds the treats together.
• Rice Krispies Cereal: Gives the classic crispy texture and crunch to the dessert.

• Cherry Gelatin Powder: Adds vibrant cherry flavor and beautiful pink color to the treats.
• Dark Chocolate Wafers: Offers a rich, decadent chocolate coating that complements the cherry flavor.

• Wax Paper, Spatula: Assists in pressing and smoothing the mixture into the pan without sticking.
• Baking Dish: Provides the shape and container for setting the treats.

Kitchen Gear for Rice Krispie Treat Making

• Large Saucepan: Essential for melting butter and marshmallows smoothly.
• Spatula: Perfect for stirring and folding ingredients without sticking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements ensure recipe success.
• 13×9 Baking Dish (or 9-inch square pan): Needed to shape and set the treats.
• Wax Paper or Spatula: Great for pressing mixture evenly into the pan.
• Microwave or Double Boiler: Useful for melting chocolate without burning.
• Sharp Knife: Required for cutting treats into clean, even squares.
• Airtight Container: Helps store treats and keep them fresh.

Steps for Cherry Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Warm Up the Base

Grab a large saucepan and melt butter and marshmallows over low heat.

Keep stirring until everything transforms into a smooth, silky mixture.

Watch it carefully to prevent burning.

• Unsalted butter
• Mini marshmallows

Step 2: Infuse Cherry Flavor

Sprinkle cherry gelatin powder into the melted marshmallow mixture.

Stir vigorously until the powder completely dissolves and creates a vibrant red-pink color.

• Cherry gelatin powder

Step 3: Introduce the Crunch

Pour Rice Krispies cereal into the warm mixture.

Fold gently and lovingly, ensuring every single cereal piece gets coated with the sweet, cherry-flavored marshmallow goodness.

• Rice Krispies cereal

Step 4: Shape and Smooth

Transfer the mixture into a buttered baking dish.

Use a greased spatula or wax paper to press and spread the treats evenly, creating a smooth, compact layer.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Elegance

Melt dark chocolate wafers using a double boiler or microwave.

Drizzle and spread the melted chocolate across the surface, creating a luxurious topping.

• Dark chocolate wafers

Step 6: Let Treats Rest

Allow the treats to set at room temperature for about an hour.

This helps the chocolate firm up and the flavors meld together perfectly.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Cut the treats into delightful squares.

Store in an airtight container and enjoy these cherry-chocolate Rice Krispie treats whenever a sweet craving hits!

Tips for Chewy and Fruity Rice Krispie Squares

• Grease your baking pan and utensils with butter or cooking spray to ensure easy removal of treats and smooth cutting.
• Use fresh, soft marshmallows for the smoothest, most creamy mixture that blends perfectly with Rice Krispies.
• Let melted chocolate cool slightly before spreading to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, even chocolate layer.
• Use name-brand cherry gelatin for the most vibrant cherry flavor and brightest color in your treats.
• Cut treats when completely cooled to maintain clean, sharp edges and prevent crumbling.

Cherry Rice Krispie Treat Variations

• Strawberry Sensation: Replace cherry gelatin with strawberry gelatin for a fruity pink variation that maintains the same sweet, vibrant flavor profile.
• Chocolate Lover's Dream: Swap dark chocolate topping with milk chocolate or white chocolate for a different chocolate experience that complements the marshmallow base.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free Rice Krispies or similar crispy rice cereal to make the treats safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Transformation: Substitute butter with coconut oil, use vegan marshmallows, and choose dairy-free chocolate chips to create a plant-based version of the classic treat.

Fun Ways to Serve Rice Krispie Treats

• Sweet Valentine's Day Treat: Slice these cherry Rice Krispie treats into heart shapes using a cookie cutter for a romantic dessert perfect for special occasions.
• Dessert Charcuterie Board Accent: Arrange these chocolate-topped treats alongside other sweets on a decorative board for an elegant party presentation.
• Movie Night Snack: Pack these portable treats in small bags for a fun cinema-friendly nibble that combines chocolate and cherry flavors.
• Kids' Baking Project: Let children help sprinkle colorful valentine sprinkles or red sugar crystals on top for a fun family cooking activity.

Storage Advice for Rice Krispie Treats

• Place treats in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days, maintaining their soft texture and delicious flavor.
• Wrap individual treats tightly in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 weeks, ensuring maximum freshness and taste.
• Store in a sealed container at room temperature for 2-3 days. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat to preserve their crispy consistency.
• Microwave individual treats for 5-10 seconds on low power to restore softness. Avoid overheating to prevent marshmallows from becoming tough or burned.

FAQs

• Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes, you can use regular marshmallows. Just measure the equivalent weight or volume of 16 ounces of mini marshmallows.

• Is cherry gelatin necessary for the recipe?

The cherry gelatin adds a distinct cherry flavor. If you don’t have it, you can skip it, but the treats will lack the cherry taste.

• What type of chocolate works best for topping?

Dark chocolate wafers are recommended, but you can use chocolate chips or chocolate bars. Just ensure it melts smoothly and complements the cherry flavor.

• How can I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands or utensils?

Grease your spatula, hands, or wax paper with butter or cooking spray before pressing the mixture into the pan. This helps prevent sticking and makes spreading easier.

Cherry Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

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4.7 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Homemade cherry rice krispie treats combine classic marshmallow cereal bars with delightful cherry flavor. Sweet nostalgia meets simple summer dessert magic, offering quick satisfaction for those craving a playful twist on traditional treats.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 16 ounces (454 grams) mini marshmallows
• 6 cups (150 grams) Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 12 tablespoons (22.5 grams) cherry gelatin powder (JELL-O, not sugar-free)

Chocolate and Fat:

• 10 ounces (283 grams) Ghirardelli dark chocolate melting wafers
• 6 tablespoons (85 grams) unsalted butter

Optional Topping:

• Sprinkles

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Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, melt butter and marshmallows over low heat, stirring continuously until smooth and completely liquefied.
2. Remove from heat and quickly incorporate cherry gelatin powder, whisking until mixture becomes uniform and vibrant pink.
3. Introduce Rice Krispies cereal into the warm marshmallow base, folding gently to ensure even distribution without crushing the delicate cereal.
4. Transfer the mixture to a prepared baking dish, using a greased spatula or wax paper to evenly press and compact the treats into a uniform layer.
5. Gently melt dark chocolate wafers using a double boiler or microwave, stirring periodically to maintain a glossy consistency.
6. Drizzle and spread melted chocolate across the surface of the treats, creating an even, luxurious coating.
7. Allow the treats to cool and set at room temperature for approximately 60 minutes, or until chocolate hardens and becomes firm.
8. Using a sharp knife, slice into square or rectangular portions, ensuring clean edges and consistent sizing.
9. Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Notes

• Swap gelatin with agar-agar powder for a vegetarian version that maintains the cherry flavor and texture.
• Use gluten-free Rice Krispies or similar crispy rice cereal to make the treats celiac-friendly.
• Experiment with different chocolate types like white or milk chocolate for varied flavor profiles and visual appeal.
• Chill the treats in the refrigerator for faster setting and a firmer chocolate layer that cuts more cleanly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Desserts
• Method: None
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg