Rice Krispie Treats: The 5-Ingredient Childhood Hero

Some recipes are timeless. This is one of them.

Butter. Marshmallows. Cereal. That’s it. 10 minutes. No oven. Sticky, gooey, crispy perfection. Make them with a kid. Eat them like a kid. No judgment.

Ingredients

Makes 12-16 bars.

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 bag (10 oz) marshmallows (about 40 regular or 4 cups mini)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
• Pinch of salt (optional)
• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal

Optional add-ins: Sprinkles, chocolate chips, M&Ms, peanut butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Pan

1. Grease a 9×13 baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows

1. In a large pot over low heat, melt butter.
2. Add marshmallows. Stir constantly until completely melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and salt (if using).

Step 3: Add the Cereal

1. Pour in Rice Krispies. Stir quickly until cereal is fully coated.
2. Don’t overmix (cereal gets crushed).

Step 4: Press Into Pan

1. Transfer mixture to prepared dish.
2. Press firmly into an even layer using greased hands or wax paper (mixture is sticky!).

Step 5: Cool and Cut

1. Let cool at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
2. Cut into squares. Serve.

Summary

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes (+ cooling)

Yield: 12-16 bars

Difficulty: So Easy

Storage Notes

Room Temp:

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Do not refrigerate (they get hard).

Freezer Friendly:

Freeze for up to 6 weeks. Thaw at room temperature.

Pro Tip:

For extra gooey treats, add 1 extra cup of marshmallows. For extra crispy, add 1 less cup.