Classic Rice Krispie Treats: Gooey, Crunchy, and Always a Hit

There’s just something magical about homemade Rice Krispie treats. That soft, chewy marshmallow, the buttery crunch, and the way they melt in your mouth. Simple, nostalgic, and always gone in minutes. Whether you’re making them for a bake sale, a lunchbox surprise, or a late-night snack, this is the only recipe you need.

You don’t need a mixer. You don’t need an oven. All you need is a pot, a spatula, and a little patience (mainly to wait for them to cool).

What You’ll Need

The ingredient list is short and sweet. You probably have everything already sitting in your pantry.

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 package (10 oz) JET-PUFFED marshmallows
    or
    5½ cups miniature marshmallows
  • 6 cups Kellogg’s® Rice Krispies® cereal

Optional but helpful: nonstick spray, wax paper, and a buttered spatula.

Let’s Make Rice Krispie Treats

Here’s how to do it step by step. No fancy equipment. Just good old-fashioned stirring.

Step 1:
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Don’t rush this part. You want it melted, not browned.

Step 2:
Add in your marshmallows. Stir them slowly and gently. Keep going until everything is smooth and melted.

Step 3:
Remove the pan from heat. Quickly stir in the cereal. Make sure every piece gets a good coating.

Step 4:
Using a buttered spatula or wax paper, press the mixture into a 13 x 9-inch pan. Don’t press too hard. You want them to stay light and chewy.

Let it cool. Then cut into 2-inch squares.

That’s it. Seriously.

Microwave Version

Short on time? You can do it in the microwave too.

Put butter and marshmallows in a large microwave-safe bowl. Heat on HIGH for 3 minutes, stirring after 2 minutes. Stir again until smooth, then add the cereal and finish the same way as above.

Every microwave is different, so keep an eye on it.

Tips and Tricks

  • Use fresh marshmallows. Old ones won’t melt as nicely.
  • Don’t use diet or tub margarine. It won’t give you that rich flavor or hold things together.
  • If you have marshmallow crème, you can use 1 jar (7 oz) instead.
  • Want to save some for later? Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • You can freeze them too. Layer with wax paper, seal in a container, and freeze up to 6 weeks. Let them sit at room temp for 15 minutes before eating.

The Bottom Line

Rice Krispie treats never go out of style. They’re easy, quick, and full of charm. No matter your age, that first bite brings you right back to childhood.

So go ahead. Grab your marshmallows and cereal. Make a batch today. And maybe, just maybe, make a second one to hide for yourself.

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