Description
These festive Easter Rice Krispie Bars are a delightful combination of crispy cereal, melted marshmallows, and colorful candy-coated chocolates. Perfect for spring celebrations, they’re easy to make, no-bake treats that are decorated with pastel M&M’s, white chocolate drizzle, and Easter-themed sprinkles to add a cheerful touch. Enjoy these chewy, sweet bars as a fun dessert or snack during the holiday season.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Mix-ins and Toppings
- 1 cup pastel-colored M&M’s or candy-coated chocolate eggs
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling)
- Easter-themed sprinkles, as needed for decoration
Instructions
- Melt butter: In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the unsalted butter carefully until fully liquefied, preparing it as the base for the melted marshmallows.
- Incorporate marshmallows: Add the mini marshmallows to the melted butter, stirring continuously to ensure they melt completely and create a smooth, sticky mixture.
- Add vanilla extract: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor, if you choose to use it.
- Mix in cereal: Gradually fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, stirring gently until every piece is evenly coated with the melted marshmallow mixture.
- Add candy mix-ins: Carefully fold in the pastel-colored M&M’s or candy-coated chocolate eggs, taking care not to crush or melt them in the warm mixture.
- Prepare baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Press mixture into dish: Transfer the cereal mixture into the prepared dish and press it evenly down using a spatula or greased hands to form a compact layer.
- Optional white chocolate drizzle: Melt the white chocolate chips gently and drizzle over the top of the pressed mixture to add a sweet decorative touch.
- Add sprinkles: Immediately sprinkle Easter-themed sprinkles over the white chocolate drizzle or directly on the bars for a festive appearance.
- Set and serve: Allow the treats to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes until firm. Then slice into 12 to 16 bars and enjoy.
Notes
- Use parchment paper in the baking dish to make removal easier and reduce sticking.
- Press the mixture firmly but gently to achieve bars that hold together well without becoming too dense.
- The vanilla extract is optional but enhances the flavor with a subtle warmth.
- For a nut-free treat, ensure candy mix-ins are free of nut ingredients.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for best freshness.