Easter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun, colorful, and festive treat to brighten your Easter celebrations, you’ve got to try this Easter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe. Trust me, these treats are fan-freaking-tastic—crispy, chewy, and just bursting with those little pops of candy and sprinkles that make every bite a celebration. Plus, they’re super quick to whip up, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen all day when you could be enjoying springtime fun!

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Balanced Crunch and Chew: Using a mix of Rice Krispies, Rice Chex, and Frosted Cheerios gives these treats the perfect texture combo.
  • M&M’s for a Pop of Color: Adding Easter M&Ms right at the end keeps their colors bright and adds that fun candy crunch.
  • Marshmallow Magic: Melting in most marshmallows with butter ensures a smooth, gooey binder before folding in the rest.
  • Easy and Quick: You can have these ready in under 45 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute Easter treat.

Ingredients & Why They Work

The magic of this Easter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe lies in how the ingredients play off each other. The cereals provide crunch and nostalgia, the marshmallows bring that classic gooey stickiness, and the M&Ms plus sprinkles add visual delight and texture pops that scream “Easter!”

Easter Rice Krispie Treats, colorful Easter treats, festive rice Krispie recipe, quick Easter desserts, springtime candy treats - Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl filled with golden salted butter cubes, a generous mound of white mini marshmallows scattered loosely, a small white ceramic bowl holding clear vanilla extract, a neat pile of crispy Rice Krispies cereal, a cluster of light tan Rice Chex squares, a handful of shiny, frosted Cheerios, a small white ceramic bowl brimming with colorful Easter M&Ms in vibrant reds, blues, yellows, and greens, and a delicate sprinkle of pastel-colored Easter sprinkles arranged beside them, all ingredients fresh and natural, arranged in perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Salted Butter: I love how salted butter balances the sweetness perfectly—feel free to swap unsalted but add a pinch of salt.
  • Mini Marshmallows: Dividing the marshmallows helps you get that smooth melt first, then fold in extra for texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Just a splash adds a subtle warmth that deepens the flavor.
  • Rice Krispies: Classic and airy, they give the base crunch you expect in these treats.
  • Rice Chex: Adds an extra layer of crunch and variety in texture; corn Chex works too, but avoid wheat.
  • Frosted Cheerios: The sweetness and round shape make the treat feel more festive and interesting.
  • Easter M&Ms: These are your colorful candy gems; adding them too early will make the colors bleed, so timing is key.
  • Easter Sprinkles: Just a sprinkle on top for that final festive flair—because who doesn’t love a little sparkle?
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love that this Easter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is super versatile. I often swap out the cereals depending on what I have on hand or add in some mini chocolate chips for extra sweetness. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!

  • Gluten-Free Version: I’ve swapped Rice Chex with gluten-free corn Chex before, and it still rocks.
  • Mix Up the Candy: Once, I tried pastel-colored candy-coated chocolates instead of Easter M&Ms—same fun effect!
  • Add Coconut Flakes: For a tropical twist, I tossed in some toasted coconut flakes with the cereals, which added a lovely aroma.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Easter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Step 1: Get Your Setup Ready

Before you even turn on the stove, premeasure all your ingredients. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and give it a quick spray with non-stick cooking spray—this step saved me from a sticky, frustrating cleanup more times than I can count.

Step 2: Melt Butter with Most of the Marshmallows

In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter and 8 cups of mini marshmallows together, stirring gently until it’s smooth and glossy. This part is SO important because melting most marshmallows first helps create a silky glue that holds the cereal together.

Step 3: Stir in Vanilla, Remaining Marshmallows & Cereals

Once melted, remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Then toss in the remaining 2 cups of marshmallows and *all* the cereals (Rice Krispies, Rice Chex, Frosted Cheerios). Use a sturdy spatula to fold everything gently but thoroughly, so every piece is coated with that luscious marshmallow mixture.

Step 4: Fold in M&Ms and Sprinkles—Fast!

This step is a race against the clock! Quickly but gently fold in the Easter M&Ms and sprinkles. Try not to overmix to avoid color bleeding from the candies, which will dull the look of your Easter treats.

Step 5: Transfer and Press Into the Pan

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Using parchment paper or lightly greased hands, gently press it down—but don’t smash! Pressing too hard makes the treats dense and tough, so go easy to keep them soft and chewy.

Step 6: Let Set and Serve

Allow the treats to cool and set for about 30 minutes at room temperature. Then, lift out on the parchment and cut into squares. If you want, top with extra M&Ms and sprinkles for that elegant final touch—I always do!

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Pro Tips for Making Easter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

  • Melt Marshmallows Slowly: Low heat is your friend here—avoid scorching by melting gently.
  • Add Candies Last: I learned the hard way that adding M&Ms too early turns them into pastel mush; wait until the end.
  • Use Parchment Paper for Easy Removal: Never skip this step—your treats will pop right out without breaking.
  • Gentle Pressing Only: Press just enough to compact without crushing, or you’ll lose the fluffiness.

How to Serve Easter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Easter Rice Krispie Treats, colorful Easter treats, festive rice Krispie recipe, quick Easter desserts, springtime candy treats - The image shows three square cereal treats stacked on a white plate, each treat made of light tan puffed rice cereal mixed with melted marshmallow. The treats are topped with colorful candy-coated chocolates in blue, purple, pink, green, and yellow, along with tiny green and multicolored sprinkles. A small yellow candy chick and a white candy bunny with blue eyes are also visible on the top layer. The treats have a sticky and soft texture with some melted marshmallow strings connecting pieces. The background is a soft pastel mint color with scattered colorful candies and eggs out of focus. The surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I keep it simple, usually topping with a handful of extra Easter M&Ms and colorful sprinkles right before pressing into the pan. It adds a festive look and that little extra crunch that everyone loves.

Side Dishes

These treats pair wonderfully with light, fresh sides like fruit salad or carrot sticks—it balances the sweetness and keeps things feeling spring-fresh during your Easter brunch or dessert table.

Creative Ways to Present

Once, I shaped the mixture into mini nests and filled the center with jellybean “eggs” for a super cute Easter display. You could also cut into festive shapes using cookie cutters, or stack squares in a clear jar for a colorful grab-and-go option at your party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Easter Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature, and they stay fresh for up to two weeks. Just keep them away from heat or humidity to maintain that perfect chewy texture.

Freezing

Freezing these treats is totally doable! I wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When I thaw them overnight in the fridge, they keep their flavor and texture surprisingly well.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy them warm, I pop a treat in the microwave for about 10 seconds, just enough to soften the marshmallow without melting the candies too much. It’s a quick way to revive that gooey goodness!

FAQs

  1. Can I use other cereals besides Rice Krispies?

    Absolutely! This recipe even calls for Rice Chex and Frosted Cheerios to add extra texture and sweetness. Feel free to swap with similar cereals you have on hand, but avoid very dense or heavily grainy cereals as they might change the texture.

  2. Why shouldn’t I add M&Ms too early?

    Adding M&Ms too early causes their color to bleed, turning your treats a dull brownish shade rather than bright and festive. That’s why folding them in last keeps their colors vibrant and candy coating intact.

  3. Can I make these treats gluten-free?

    Yes! Simply use gluten-free cereals like corn Chex or specially labeled gluten-free Rice Krispies, and double-check your marshmallows and candies for gluten ingredients.

  4. How do I keep the treats soft and chewy?

    Be gentle when pressing the mixture into the pan and avoid packing it down too hard. Also, don’t overcook the marshmallows. These steps keep the treats nice and tender.

  5. What’s the best way to store leftover Easter Rice Krispie Treats?

    Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, away from heat or humidity. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to two weeks.

Final Thoughts

This Easter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe holds a special place in my heart—it’s that perfect blend of childhood nostalgia and seasonal whimsy that never fails to make people smile. I hope you’ll give it a go and find it as fun and satisfying to make and eat as I do. Whether you’re crafting it with little helpers or sneaking bites when no one’s looking, it’s a sweet way to celebrate. Happy baking and Happy Easter!

Print
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Easter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 19 reviews
  • Author: Taylor
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 20 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Delightful Easter Rice Krispie Treats combining crispy cereals, melted marshmallows, and festive M&Ms and sprinkles. Perfect for spring celebrations and easy to make with simple ingredients.


Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • ½ cup salted butter
  • 10 cups mini marshmallows, divided
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cereal Mix

  • 5 cups Rice Krispies
  • 2 cups Rice Chex
  • 2 cups Frosted Cheerios

Toppings

  • 1 cup Easter M&Ms
  • 2 teaspoons Easter sprinkles


Instructions

  1. Prepare Baking Dish: Premeasure all ingredients. Line a 9×13-inch baking sheet with parchment paper and coat with non-stick spray; set aside.
  2. Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan, melt the ½ cup salted butter together with 8 cups of mini marshmallows over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth and fully combined.
  3. Add Vanilla and Remaining Marshmallows: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Then add the remaining 2 cups of mini marshmallows, stirring quickly until they start to melt and blend.
  4. Mix in Cereals: Immediately fold in 5 cups Rice Krispies, 2 cups Rice Chex, and 2 cups Frosted Cheerios into the marshmallow mixture, ensuring all cereals are fully coated.
  5. Add M&Ms and Sprinkles: Gently and quickly fold in 1 cup Easter M&Ms and 2 teaspoons Easter sprinkles to avoid color bleeding from M&Ms.
  6. Transfer and Press: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with extra M&Ms and sprinkles if desired. Use parchment paper or lightly greased hands to gently press the mixture into an even layer without pressing too hard to keep treats soft.
  7. Set and Cut: Allow the treats to set at room temperature for 30 minutes before removing from the pan and cutting into 20 squares.

Notes

  • Unsalted butter can be used; add ½ teaspoon salt to compensate.
  • Corn Chex can replace Rice Chex, but avoid wheat Chex for best texture.
  • Other Cheerios varieties can be substituted for Frosted Cheerios.
  • Do not add M&Ms too early to prevent color bleeding in the treats.
  • Press the mixture gently into the pan to avoid tough treats.
  • Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 square
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 110 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 20 mg

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