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Basic Rice Krispie Squares
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- #74120
Can't beat the classics. Rice Krispie bars are a marshmallowy sweet treat for the kids and a childhood throwback for the adults.
serves/makes:
ready in:
under 30 minutes
under 30 minutes
4 reviews
ingredients
4 tablespoons butter
1 package (10 ounce size) marshmallows
5 cups Rice Krispies cereal
directions
Generously butter a 13x9 baking dish.
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Add the marshmallows and cook, stirring constantly, until melted. Let cook for 3 minutes while stirring.
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the Rice Krispies. Stir until the cereal is completely coated in the marshmallow mixture.
Transfer the cereal mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use buttered hands or a buttered spatula to press it evenly into the dish.
Let cool completely then cut into squares. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
recipe tips
Use fresh marshmallows for the best flavor. Stale marshmallows will alter the flavor a bit.
Stir continuously when melting the marshmallows to prevent burning.
Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the baking dish to make sure the bars hold together well.
For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the marshmallow mixture before adding the cereal.
Get creative with toppings like melted chocolate drizzle or a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet touch.
Cut the bars with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for cleaner slices.
For a fun variation, try using colored or flavored marshmallows like strawberry or chocolate for a twist on the classic recipe.
Experiment with different shapes by pressing the mixture into muffin tins or cookie cutters for individual servings.
common recipe questions
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in this recipe, but the flavor may be slightly different.
What other cereals can I use instead of Rice Krispies?
You can experiment with different cereals like corn flakes, Fruity Pebbles, or even crushed graham crackers for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or sprinkles to the bars?
You can customize your Rice Krispie bars by adding in chocolate chips, sprinkles, dried fruit, nuts, or any other mix-ins you desire.
Can I freeze Rice Krispie bars?
You can freeze Rice Krispie bars in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
How can I make the bars softer or chewier?
To make softer bars, reduce the amount of cereal slightly or add a bit more butter and marshmallows to the mixture.
How can I make the bars firmer?
To make firmer bars, increase the amount of cereal or press the mixture more firmly into the baking dish before cooling.
Do I use full-sized marshmallows or miniature?
You can use either, you just need 10 ounces of marshmallows. Miniature will melt faster.
tools needed
Large Saucepan: For melting the butter and marshmallows together, creating the sticky, gooey mixture that binds the Rice Krispies together.
13x9 Baking Dish: Used to hold and shape the Rice Krispie mixture before cutting it into squares. Make sure to generously butter the dish to prevent sticking.
Buttered Spatula: Helpful for pressing the Rice Krispie mixture evenly into the baking dish. Buttered hands can also be used for this step if preferred.
Airtight Container: For storing any leftover Rice Krispie Squares (we've never had this problem but it could happen).
what goes with it?
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two squares for a fun twist on a classic treat. The combination of the cold, creamy ice cream and the crispy, chewy bars will create a unique textural experience.
Chocolate Fondue: Dip the Rice Krispie bars into a warm pot of melted chocolate for a decadent treat. The sweet and crunchy bars will be the perfect vehicle for the smooth, rich chocolate.
S'mores: Use the Rice Krispie bars in place of graham crackers in a traditional s'more for a unique twist. The combination of the gooey marshmallow and chocolate with the crispy bars will take your campfire treat to the next level.
Dessert Skewers: Thread small squares of the Rice Krispie bars onto skewers with chunks of fruit for a fun dessert kabob. The sweet and chewy bars will pair perfectly with the fresh fruit.
nutrition data
60 calories, 2 grams fat, 11 grams carbohydrates, 0 grams protein per serving. This recipe is low in sodium. This recipe is low in fat.
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reviews & comments
December 2, 2019
I also have been making it for 50 years and its not on the cereal box any more its a staple when our sons come for a visit and also for the grandsons .. please leave it on the cereal box for us oldies thank you
May 12, 2012
Just the perfect basic squares recipe I was looking for. Thank you.
June 12, 2009
I have made this recipe for at least 40 years, and love it! I bought rice krispies in the large bulk bags, and wanted to make it, so I went to peek at the Rice Krispies box to get the amount of each ingredient needed. It wasn't there on the side of the box anymore! Thank you for providing the recipe on this site. I will write it down now...
February 2, 2008
I added red food colouring and cut them into heart shapes with a cookie cutter for Valentines day!