Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the holidays, and nothing quite captures that festive spirit like a batch of Christmas Rice Crispy Treats! These delightful, chewy squares are not only a nostalgic treat but also incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect addition to your holiday gatherings. The combination of gooey marshmallows, crunchy cereal, and vibrant holiday sprinkles creates a sweet treat that is sure to bring smiles to everyone’s face. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s whip up a delicious batch of these festive goodies!
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Crispy cereal
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup holiday-themed sprinkles (red, green, and white)
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- A pinch of salt
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 treats
Directions and Instructions
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat, allowing it to become smooth and bubbly.
- Once the butter has melted completely, add the mini marshmallows to the pan. Stir continuously until the marshmallows turn into a velvety, smooth mixture.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and a sprinkle of salt. This adds a wonderful depth of flavor!
- Gradually add the Rice Crispy cereal to the melted marshmallow mixture. Gently fold the cereal in with a spatula until every morsel is coated in that luscious marshmallow goo.
- Now, it’s time to add some holiday cheer! Gently mix in the holiday-themed sprinkles until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lightly greasing it with butter or a cooking spray so that the treats don’t stick.
- Transfer the Rice Crispy mixture into the prepared pan. Using a buttered spatula or a piece of wax paper, press the mixture down evenly into the pan.
- Let the treats cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, allowing them to set perfectly.
- Once cooled, cut them into squares or use festive cookie cutters to create fun holiday shapes. Serve and watch them disappear!
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate on top of the cooled treats. It adds a rich and creamy dimension that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the marshmallows. You can also add in some crushed peppermint candy for a refreshing twist!
Cooking Techniques
Remember, patience is key when melting the butter and marshmallows. Keep the heat low to prevent burning and stickiness. Alternately, if you’re short on time, you can microwave the marshmallows for about 1 minute, stirring after 30 seconds, until puffy and melted!
FAQ
Can I make these treats ahead of time? Yes! They can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
How do I store leftovers? Keep any remaining treats in an airtight container. They are best enjoyed within a week, but they usually disappear much faster than that!
Conclusion
These Christmas Rice Crispy Treats are a sweet, simple, and delightful way to celebrate the season. With their festive colors and familiar flavors, they are sure to become a beloved holiday tradition in your home. So gather your loved ones, make some memories in the kitchen, and enjoy these crunchy, gooey delights this holiday season!