If you’re a fan of Rice Krispy Treats and absolutely love coconut, you’re in for a real treat—literally! Coconut Lover’s Rice Krispy Treats are chewy, gooey, and lightly crispy, with a tropical flair that takes the traditional marshmallow squares to new heights. This no-bake dessert is easy to make, packed with coconut flavor, and guaranteed to please both kids and adults alike.
Perfect for bake sales, potlucks, parties, or just a cozy afternoon at home, these bars are not only quick to whip up but also incredibly satisfying. You only need a handful of ingredients, and there’s no oven involved—just a stovetop and your sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love These Coconut Rice Krispy Treats
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
- Tropical Vibes – Toasted coconut flakes and coconut extract add a warm, nutty, and fragrant flavor.
- Versatile – Great base recipe that you can customize with nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate.
- No Bake – Ideal for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
Ingredients
- 6 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract
- 1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut, divided
- Pinch of salt (optional, to balance the sweetness)
Instructions
- Toast the Coconut:
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast 1 cup of the shredded coconut until golden brown, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This should take about 3–5 minutes. Set aside to cool. - Melt the Butter & Marshmallows:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they are completely melted and smooth. - Add Coconut Flavor:
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the coconut extract and a pinch of salt (if using). - Mix in Cereal and Coconut:
Quickly add the crispy rice cereal and toasted coconut to the marshmallow mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated. - Press into Pan:
Grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the pan and gently press it into an even layer using a spatula or clean hands lightly greased with butter or oil. - Top with Extra Coconut:
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of untoasted shredded coconut over the top and gently press it in so it sticks. - Cool and Cut:
Let the treats cool at room temperature for about 30–45 minutes, then cut into squares and serve.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use fresh marshmallows for the best gooey texture.
- Don’t press too hard when forming the bars—this keeps them soft and chewy.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Coconut Bars: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top before the bars cool.
- Tropical Medley: Add chopped dried pineapple or mango to the mix.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in some chopped macadamia nuts or sliced almonds for extra texture.
Final Thoughts
These Coconut Lover’s Rice Krispy Treats are everything you love about the classic childhood dessert—but with a fun, flavorful coconut twist. The combination of crispy cereal, gooey marshmallows, and toasted coconut makes them simply irresistible. They’re a breeze to make and perfect for sharing… though you may want to keep a few extra for yourself!
Whether you’re making them for a party, gifting them to a fellow coconut fan, or just treating yourself, these no-bake bars will quickly become a go-to favorite in your dessert rotation.