If you’re craving a nostalgic treat that bursts with fruity flavor and playful cherry notes, the Cherry Cherry Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This delightful twist on the classic Rice Krispie treat brings a vibrant splash of cherry gelatin right into every chewy, crispy bite, making it irresistible for both kids and adults alike. With a few simple ingredients and a short amount of prep time, you can whip up a tray of these festive, colorful bars that are perfect for snacking, celebrations, or gifting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of ingredients to make these Cherry Cherry Rice Krispie Treats, each carefully chosen to create that perfect balance of gooey texture and cherry-rich flavor. Every element contributes something special, from the buttery smooth base to the crunchy cereal that gives the treat its signature snap.
- Unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness and adds a creamy richness that binds everything.
- Mini marshmallows: These melt down into a smooth, sticky glue that holds your treats together and keeps them perfectly chewy.
- Cherry gelatin powder: The star of the show, bringing vibrant color and a bold cherry flavor that’s both sweet and tangy.
- Vanilla extract (optional): A splash enhances the overall taste with a warm, subtle depth.
- Pinch of salt (optional): Balances the sweetness and highlights flavors without overpowering the cherry theme.
- Rice Krispies cereal: Provides that classic crispy, airy texture that makes these treats so addictive.
- Optional toppings: Extras like mini marshmallows or melted white chocolate drizzle make the treats even more fun and indulgent.
How to Make Cherry Cherry Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Pan
Start by lining an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray. This step might seem small, but it’s essential for ensuring your treats come out cleanly and in perfect squares.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Marshmallows
Over low heat, melt the butter in a large saucepan until it’s just shimmering. Add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly until they’re melted and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This gooey base is what makes your treats wonderfully chewy and easy to shape.
Step 3: Add Cherry Flavor
Mix in the cherry gelatin powder thoroughly so the entire mixture takes on a gorgeous pink-red hue. If you like, add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt at this point to boost the flavor complexity. The cherry gelatin isn’t just for color; it infuses the whole treat with that signature cherry taste that sets this recipe apart.
Step 4: Mix in the Cereal
Remove the saucepan from the heat and gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir until every crispy piece is evenly coated with that luscious cherry-marshmallow goodness. The key here is to combine gently so you don’t crush the cereal and lose that delightful crunch.
Step 5: Press into Pan
Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. Using a buttered spatula or a sheet of wax paper, press it down evenly into the corners and across the surface. Pressing gently but firmly ensures the treats hold their shape after they cool.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow the treat slab to rest at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes so it can firm up without getting too hard. Once set, lift it out using the parchment paper and slice into 12 generous squares ready to be enjoyed or shared.
How to Serve Cherry Cherry Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Garnishes
These treats can be dressed up with fun toppings to match your occasion. Try sprinkling extra mini marshmallows on top right after pressing the mixture into the pan, or drizzle melted white chocolate over cooled squares for a luxurious finish that pairs beautifully with the cherry flavor.
Side Dishes
Cherry Cherry Rice Krispie Treats shine as a sweet snack on their own, but pairing them with fresh fruit, especially berries or citrus slices, can balance the sweetness nicely. For a party, consider serving them alongside whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Present these bars stacked on a decorative platter for gatherings or wrap individual squares in clear cellophane tied with a cherry-red ribbon for a charming homemade gift. You can even cut them into festive shapes using cookie cutters for kid-friendly fun at birthday parties or holiday celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled and sliced, store your Rice Krispie treats in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them chewy and fresh for about 3 to 4 days—perfect for planning treats ahead or enjoying over several days.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Cherry Cherry Rice Krispie Treats Recipe goodies longer, you can freeze them. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They’ll maintain their flavor and texture for up to a month.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy frozen treats, let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour. If you want a slightly warmed, soft texture, pop them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds—but be careful not to melt the marshmallows completely or they can get too sticky.
FAQs
Can I use regular gelatin instead of cherry gelatin powder?
You can use regular unflavored gelatin, but it won’t add the cherry flavor or the lovely pink color that makes this recipe special. For the best results, stick to cherry gelatin powder to capture that fruity essence.
What if I don’t have mini marshmallows?
If mini marshmallows aren’t on hand, you can chop up large marshmallows to approximate them. However, mini marshmallows melt more evenly, so try to chop them finely for the best texture.
Can I substitute Rice Krispies with another cereal?
While Rice Krispies are ideal because of their light crispness, you can substitute with similar puffed rice cereals. Avoid anything too dense to keep the classic airy crunch intact.
How do I avoid the treats becoming too hard?
Make sure to remove the marshmallow mixture from heat before adding the cereal, and don’t press the mixture too firmly into the pan. Firm but gentle pressing helps keep them chewy rather than rock hard.
Is this recipe suitable for making themed party treats?
Absolutely! The vibrant cherry color and customizable toppings make the Cherry Cherry Rice Krispie Treats Recipe perfect for seasonal celebrations, kids’ parties, or holiday gatherings where you want a fun and flavorful popcorn-style treat.
Final Thoughts
Making the Cherry Cherry Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is such a joyful experience, especially when you get that perfect balance of fruity cherry flavor and crispy, chewy texture in every bite. It’s a sweet recipe that’s quick to prepare, fun to share, and impossible not to love. So grab your ingredients, get your pan ready, and dive into making your own batch—your taste buds will thank you for the cherry-filled celebration!
Print
Cherry Cherry Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40–65 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cherry Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, bursting with fruity cherry flavor thanks to the addition of cherry gelatin powder. Soft, chewy marshmallow goodness combined with crisp Rice Krispies cereal makes for an irresistible treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows (about 5½ cups)
- 1 (3 oz) box cherry gelatin powder
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Optional Toppings
- Extra mini marshmallows
- Melted white chocolate drizzle
Instructions
- Prep the Pan: Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until the mixture is melted and smooth without any lumps.
- Add Cherry Flavor: Stir in the cherry gelatin powder along with the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if using. Mix until the gelatin is fully incorporated and the mixture is bright and evenly colored.
- Mix in the Cereal: Remove the saucepan from heat and fold in the Rice Krispies cereal gently but thoroughly until all the cereal is evenly coated with the cherry marshmallow mixture.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a buttered spatula or a piece of wax paper to gently press the mixture into an even, compact layer to ensure the treats hold together once set.
- Cool and Slice: Let the treated mixture sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes to firm up. Once cooled and set, lift out of the pan using the parchment paper and slice into 12 squares. Add optional toppings like extra mini marshmallows or a drizzle of melted white chocolate if desired.
Notes
- Using parchment paper in the pan helps to remove the treats easily without sticking.
- For firmer treats, you can refrigerate for 15-30 minutes after pressing into the pan.
- Adjust the cherry gelatin powder amount slightly if you want a milder or more intense flavor.
- Optional vanilla extract enhances the flavor complexity but can be omitted.
- For a decorative touch, add melted white chocolate drizzles after the treats have cooled.
