The Easiest 3-Ingredient Rice Krispies Treats
Rice Krispies Treats are a childhood favorite that never gets old. With just three simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these chewy, gooey, and crispy treats in no time! Whether you’re making them for a quick snack, a bake sale, or just a nostalgic dessert, this recipe is fail-proof and takes less than 15 minutes to put together.
There’s something magical about the combination of buttery marshmallows and crispy rice cereal—a balance of textures that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, since these are no-bake treats, they’re perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven. Let’s dive into this simple and delicious recipe!
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Key Ingredients in 3-Ingredient Rice Krispies Treats
Rice Krispies Cereal
This classic crispy rice cereal provides the signature crunch and light texture of these treats. You can use any brand of puffed rice cereal if needed.
Marshmallows
Marshmallows act as the glue that holds everything together, creating that gooey and stretchy consistency. Mini marshmallows melt faster, but regular-sized ones work just as well.
Butter
Butter adds richness and flavor, preventing the treats from becoming too sticky while enhancing the taste. You can use salted or unsalted butter depending on your preference.
How to Make 3-Ingredient Rice Krispies Treats
- Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Melt the Butter & Marshmallows: In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter. Add the marshmallows and stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Mix in the Cereal: Remove the pot from heat and immediately fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, ensuring every piece is coated.
- Press into the Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared dish and press it down evenly using a greased spatula or your hands.
- Let it Set: Allow the treats to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate chips and drizzle over the top for extra indulgence.
- Peanut Butter Twist: Stir in ¼ cup of peanut butter when melting the marshmallows for a nutty flavor.
- Sprinkle Fun: Add sprinkles, crushed cookies, or M&M’s before pressing into the pan for a festive touch.
- Salted Caramel: Drizzle some salted caramel sauce over the top for a sweet-salty contrast.
Pairings
- A glass of cold milk – the ultimate classic combination!
- Hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat.
- Vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of textures.
Serving Suggestions
- Cut into small squares for easy snacking.
- Shape into fun molds for parties and special occasions.
- Dip in melted chocolate and let it harden for a candy-bar-like treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Overheating the marshmallows: This can make the treats hard instead of soft and chewy. Keep the heat low!
❌ Pressing too hard into the pan: This will result in dense, tough treats instead of light and airy ones.
❌ Not greasing your hands or spatula: The mixture is super sticky, so grease up to make spreading easier!
Tips and Tricks
✅ Use fresh marshmallows for the best texture. Stale ones won’t melt properly!
✅ Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
✅ Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
✅ Store in an airtight container to keep them soft for up to 3 days.
✅ Freeze for longer storage – just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap first.
Final Thoughts
These 3-Ingredient Rice Krispies Treats are simple, quick, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making them for a party, a lunchbox treat, or just to satisfy a craving, you can’t go wrong. Give them a try and let me know how you jazz them up!
3 Ingredient Rice Krispies Treats
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 10 ounces marshmallows about 40 large
- 1/4 cup butter or margarine
Instructions
- Grease a 9×13 inch pan with butter or cooking spray.
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press down evenly using a greased spatula or your hands (lightly greased).
- Let the treats cool and set for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
Notes
- For softer treats, melt marshmallows slowly and don’t overmix.
- A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and flavor balance.
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- You can double the recipe for thicker treats.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 180 kcal The nutritional information provided for this recipe is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.🛒 Recommended Kitchen Tools
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect for shaping your treats.
- Large saucepan – for melting marshmallows evenly.
- Silicone spatula – for easy mixing and spreading.
FAQs About 3-Ingredient Rice Krispies Treats
Why are my Rice Krispies Treats too hard?
Overheating the marshmallows or pressing the mixture too firmly into the pan can make them hard. Keep the heat low and press gently.
Can I make these without butter?
Yes! You can substitute coconut oil or margarine for a dairy-free version.
How do I keep them fresh longer?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating, as it makes them too hard.
Can I use flavored marshmallows?
Absolutely! Using strawberry or chocolate marshmallows adds a fun twist.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Yes! Stir them in right after mixing in the cereal for extra texture and flavor.
👉 If you enjoyed these treats, you might also like my Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars.
