If you’re searching for a fun, festive, and absolutely delightful treat that captures the joy of spring and family gatherings, these easter rice krispies are exactly what you need. Bursting with colorful pastel candies and the classic irresistible crunch of Rice Krispies cereal, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a joyful celebration on your plate. Each bite offers a perfect balance of gooey marshmallow sweetness and playful texture, making these treats ideal for sharing with loved ones during Easter or any springtime occasion.

easter rice krispies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for these easter rice krispies is refreshingly easy. Each item plays a key role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and that festive pop of color that makes these treats so exciting to eat and look at.

Rice Krispies cereal: Provides the iconic light and crunchy base that is essential to the treat’s signature texture.
Unsalted butter: Ensures smooth melting of marshmallows and adds a subtle richness without overpowering sweetness.
Marshmallows: Responsible for the gooey, sticky binding agent that holds everything together; mini marshmallows melt quicker for an even mix.
Vanilla extract: Adds depth and a warm, inviting aroma to the sweet marshmallow mixture.
Pastel M&M’s or chocolate eggs: Sprinkle in festive colors and a chocolatey crunch that screams springtime celebration.
Food coloring (optional): Amplify the visual appeal by tinting the marshmallow mixture in soft pastels to match your Easter theme.

How to Make easter rice krispies

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by lightly greasing a baking pan with butter or lining it with parchment paper. This tiny but crucial step will ensure your easter rice krispies release effortlessly once set, keeping those squares intact and picture-perfect.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows

In a large saucepan set to low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the marshmallows constantly. Be patient and keep stirring until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth—this velvety base is what glues the crispies and candies together beautifully.

Step 3: Add Color and Vanilla

If you want to brighten your easter rice krispies with a splash of pastel hues, now is the moment to stir in a few drops of food coloring. Mix it thoroughly for an even color. After removing the pan from heat, add the teaspoon of vanilla extract and give it a good stir to elevate the flavor profile with that subtle, comforting note.

Step 4: Combine with the Rice Krispies

Pour the cereal into the marshmallow mixture and fold everything together gently but thoroughly. You want every crispie coated in that luscious marshmallow sheen, ready to hold those candies and shape nicely in the pan.

Step 5: Fold in the Festive Candies

Gently fold in most of your pastel M&M’s or mini chocolate eggs, saving a handful to sprinkle on top in the final step. This keeps pockets of chocolate fun throughout your treat, making each bite a little surprise.

Step 6: Press and Set

Transfer the entire mixture to your prepared pan. Press it firmly and evenly using a spatula or lightly buttered hands—it’s crucial to compact the mixture well so the treats hold their shape when cut. Finally, sprinkle the reserved candies on top and gently press them into the surface for that extra pop of color and texture.

Step 7: Let Cool and Slice

Allow your easter rice krispies to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This resting time lets the treats set perfectly, making them easy to cut into squares or rectangles. After that, your festive, colorful snack is ready to enjoy!

How to Serve easter rice krispies

Garnishes

These treats practically garnish themselves with their cheerful pastel candies, but you can elevate the presentation by adding a drizzle of white chocolate or a sprinkle of edible glitter for an extra touch of whimsy. Fresh edible flowers also make a lovely, spring-inspired decoration.

Side Dishes

easter rice krispies are a sweet star, so pair them with light, fresh sides like a fruit salad, creamy yogurt dip, or a simple citrus punch. These sides will balance the richness and keep your Easter spread bright and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the traditional cut squares! Use cookie cutters to make fun Easter shapes like bunnies, eggs, or chicks. Wrapping individual pieces in colorful cellophane with a pretty ribbon transforms them into adorable gifts or party favors. You can even stack them on a tiered tray for an eye-catching dessert display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your easter rice krispies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain chewy and delicious for up to three days—perfect if you’re prepping in advance or just have some extras from your celebration.

Freezing

If you want to keep these treats longer, you can freeze them. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for about 4 to 6 weeks. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to snack.

Reheating

These treats are best enjoyed fresh or at room temperature. If they feel a bit stiff after storage, a few seconds in the microwave can soften them slightly. Just be careful not to melt the chocolate candies on top!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cereal for this recipe?

While Rice Krispies offer the trademark crisp and light texture for these treats, you can experiment with similar puffed rice cereals. Just keep in mind the flavor and crunch might change slightly.

How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning?

Melting marshmallows over low heat and stirring constantly helps ensure they melt smoothly without burning. Patience is key to a perfect melt!

Can I make these vegan or dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute butter with a plant-based margarine and use vegan marshmallows. Just be sure the candies you choose are vegan-friendly as well.

Is it necessary to add food coloring?

Food coloring is completely optional but really helps create that festive Easter look. If you prefer natural colors, you can use small amounts of fruit purees or powdered natural dyes instead.

How do I keep the treats from sticking to my hands when pressing?

Lightly buttering your hands or using a spatula to press the mixture evenly in the pan prevents the sticky marshmallow base from making a mess.

Final Thoughts

Making easter rice krispies is a joyful, hands-on way to bring a burst of color and crunch to your spring celebrations. Whether you’re sharing with family, gifting to friends, or just indulging yourself, these treats are sure to brighten your day with every bite. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try—the smiles they bring are absolutely worth it!

easter rice krispies Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 17 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This festive Easter Rice Krispies treat recipe combines the classic crispy cereal base with a sweet marshmallow mix, enhanced by pastel-colored candies for a fun and colorful holiday snack. It’s quick to make, perfect for kids and adults alike, and adds a cheerful touch to your Easter celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

4 cups Rice Krispies cereal
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 ounces marshmallows (mini or regular, about 4 cups)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Extras

1 cup pastel M&M’s or chocolate eggs
Food coloring (optional, a few drops)

Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Lightly grease your baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent the treats from sticking once they are set.
Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Then add the marshmallows and stir constantly until they are completely melted and smooth.
Add Food Coloring: If you want colored treats, add a few drops of your chosen food coloring to the melted marshmallow mixture and stir well until fully combined.
Mix in Vanilla: Remove the pan from heat and blend in the vanilla extract thoroughly for enhanced flavor.
Combine Cereal with Marshmallow Mixture: Pour the Rice Krispies cereal into the marshmallow mixture and stir until every piece is well coated.
Add Pastel Candies: Fold in the pastel-colored M&M’s or chocolate eggs gently, saving a handful to decorate on top later.
Press Mixture into Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan and press it firmly and evenly with a spatula or your hands to compact the treats.
Top with Reserved Candies: Sprinkle the saved candies on top and gently press them into the treat mixture for extra color and texture.
Cool and Serve: Allow the treats to cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares or rectangles for serving.

Notes

Use wax paper or buttered hands to press the mixture into the pan to avoid sticking.
You can substitute the pastel M&M’s with any colorful candy-coated chocolates or small Easter-themed candies.
For a twist, try adding a sprinkle of coconut flakes or chopped nuts for extra texture.
Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
If using food coloring, gel-based colors work better to keep the mixture from becoming too runny.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert, Snack
Method: No Bake, Stove-Top
Cuisine: American