Easy One Pan Baked Rice Krispy Treats

There’s something magical about Rice Krispy Treats — they invoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort that can transport you back to simpler times. Imagine biting into a square of chewy, marshmallowy goodness, the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen, wrapping you in a cozy embrace. With just one pan, a few simple ingredients, and a little bit of time, you can recreate this childhood favorite in a delightful baked version that’s perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own.

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a holiday, or just looking to treat yourself over the weekend, these Easy One Pan Baked Rice Krispy Treats are the ideal go-to dessert that boasts a chewy texture and a lightly toasted flavor. They’re a fun twist on a classic treat, perfect for any occasion!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 12 squares
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 170
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 6g
Sugar: 10g

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy — perfect for beginners or anyone short on time. The combination of mini marshmallows and marshmallow fluff creates a rich, gooey texture that elevates the traditional treat. Your kitchen will fill with the warm, sweet aroma of melting marshmallows, enticing everyone in the household to gather around. Best served warm, these Rice Krispy Treats make for a delightful snack after dinner or an energizing treat during family game night.

How to Make Easy One Pan Baked Rice Krispy Treats

Here’s how to whip up your own delightful batch of these treats:

Ingredients

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup marshmallow fluff
3 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Optional Ingredients and Substitutions

Nuts: Chopped almonds or pecans for added crunch
Chocolate chips: For a sweet twist
Coconut flakes: If you enjoy a tropical vibe
Gluten-free Rice Krispies: Swap for a gluten-free option

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
Add the mini marshmallows and marshmallow fluff, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
Stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until fully coated.
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Press down firmly to pack it in.
Bake for 12-15 minutes (keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking).
Allow to cool before cutting into squares and serving.

Baking Tips

Don’t overmix: Once you add the cereal, fold until just combined for the best texture.
Testing doneness: They should be lightly golden around the edges; if they are too brown, they may be overbaked and dry.

How to Serve

These Rice Krispy Treats are delicious on their own, but consider serving them with a pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or alongside your favorite hot tea or coffee. You can even use them as a base for dessert skewers, pairing them with fresh fruit or chocolate sauce for a fun twist!

How to Store

To keep your treats fresh:

Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: They can last up to a week in the fridge.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Expert Tips

Use fresh and good-quality marshmallows for the best taste.
Allow to cool completely before cutting to avoid them falling apart.
Consider using a cookie cutter to create fun shapes, perfect for kids’ parties!

Delicious Variations

Vegan Version: Substitute butter for coconut oil and marshmallows for vegan marshmallows.
Cinnamon Swirl: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the melted marshmallow mixture for a warm spice.
Chocolate-covered: Dip cooled treats in melted chocolate and allow them to set before serving for a delightful surprise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely! You can add dried fruits like cranberries or chopped up bananas for a sweet twist.

Why is it dry/dense?
Overmixing the cereal or overbaking it can lead to a denser texture. Stick to the instructions for best results!

What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be crumbled over yogurt or ice cream for an added crunch, or simply enjoy them as is!

Can I use frozen ingredients?
Using previously frozen marshmallows can alter the texture; it’s best to use fresh ones for this recipe.

Conclusion

In just about 25 minutes, you can whip up a batch of Easy One Pan Baked Rice Krispy Treats that will delight friends and family alike. The warm flavors will fill your home with an inviting aroma, and each square will melt in your mouth. So go ahead and try this simple, delicious recipe, and don’t forget to share your thoughts and your own creative variations — happy baking!