Original Rice Krispie Treat Recipe are one of those classic no-bake desserts that bring back childhood memories. They’re simple, quick, and require only three ingredients—making them perfect for busy days, last-minute snacks, or nostalgic cravings. In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through making the best Original Rice Krispie Treat Recipe, ensuring they turn out soft, chewy, and delicious every time.

Ingredients for the Best The Original Rice Krispie Treat Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Before starting, gather your ingredients for Original Rice Krispie Treat Recipe

✅ 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness and prevents sticking
✅ 1 package (10 oz, about 40) marshmallows OR 5 1/2 cups mini marshmallows – The key to gooey treats
✅ 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal – Gives the signature crunch

Optional Add-Ins

½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the sweetness
Pinch of salt – Balances flavors
1 extra cup of mini marshmallows (unmelted) – Creates an extra gooey texture

Step-by-Step Guide to Making The Original Rice Krispie Treat Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan for Original Rice Krispie Treat Recipe

🔹 Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and makes removing the treats easier.
🔹 For extra convenience, line the dish with parchment paper so you can lift the treats out easily for cutting.

📷 [Insert Image: Featured Image] (Freshly cut Rice Krispie Treats stacked on a wooden countertop.)

Step 2: Melt the Butter

🔹 In a large saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
🔹 If you want a richer, slightly caramelized taste, let the butter brown slightly before adding marshmallows.

📷 [Insert Image: Step-by-Step Image – Melting Marshmallows] (Butter and marshmallows melting together in a saucepan.)

Step 3: Melt the Marshmallows for Original Rice Krispie Treat Recipe

🔹 Add one full package of marshmallows (or 5 ½ cups of mini marshmallows) to the melted butter.
🔹 Stir continuously over low heat until the marshmallows are fully melted and smooth.
🔹 Add ½ teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt (if using) for enhanced flavor.

Original Rice Krispie Treat RecipeMelting butter and marshmallows in a saucepan, stirred with a wooden spoon for Rice Krispie Treats.

💡 Pro Tip: Heating the marshmallows too fast or over high heat can make the treats hard instead of soft and chewy—so be patient!

Step 4: Mix in the Rice Krispies Cereal of Original Rice Krispie Treat Recipe

🔹 Remove the saucepan from the heat.
🔹 Immediately pour 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal into the melted marshmallow mixture.
🔹 Stir gently but quickly using a buttered spatula or wooden spoon to coat every piece evenly.
🔹 If you want extra gooey treats, add 1 cup of mini marshmallows at this stage and mix lightly.

📷 [Insert Image: Step-by-Step Image – Mixing in Rice Krispies] (Rice Krispies cereal being folded into the gooey marshmallow mixture.)

💡 Pro Tip: Butter your spatula or hands to prevent sticking when mixing.

Step 5: Transfer & Press the Mixture into the Pan

🔹 Pour the mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch pan.
🔹 Using a buttered spatula or wax paper, gently press the mixture down evenly into the pan.

⚠️ Don’t press too hard! If you compact the mixture too much, your treats will turn out dense instead of soft and chewy.

Step 6: Let It Set & Cut into Squares

🔹 Let the Rice Krispie Treats cool at room temperature for 30 minutes.
🔹 Once firm, cut into squares with a sharp knife.

📷 [Insert Image: Final Presentation – Cut Treats Ready to Serve] (A plate of Rice Krispie Treats, one with a bite taken out, showing the chewy texture.)

💡 For a quicker setup, place the pan in the fridge for 15 minutes, but avoid leaving them in too long, or they may become too firm.

Tips for Perfect Original Rice Krispie Treat Recipe

✔ Use fresh marshmallows – Older marshmallows may not melt smoothly.
✔ Low heat is key – High heat can make them hard instead of chewy.
✔ Butter your hands or spatula – Prevents sticking while pressing into the pan.
✔ Want them extra soft? Add 4 tablespoons of butter instead of 3.
✔ Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 6 weeks.

Fun Variations of The Original Rice Krispie Treat Recipe to Try

1. Chocolate Lovers’ Version

Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the mixture before pressing into the pan.
Drizzle melted chocolate on top before serving.

2. Peanut Butter Twist

Stir ½ cup peanut butter into the melted marshmallow mixture.
Top with chopped peanuts for extra crunch.

3. Holiday Fun

Mix in colored sprinkles or use festive marshmallow flavors.
Add M&M’s or crushed Oreos for a fun twist.

4. S’mores Rice Krispie Treats

Add crushed graham crackers and mini chocolate chips before pressing into the pan.

FAQs about The Original Rice Krispie Treat Recipe

Can I use marshmallow fluff instead of marshmallows?

Yes! Use 7 ounces of marshmallow fluff instead of regular marshmallows. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Why are my Original Rice Krispie Treat Recipe too hard?

This happens when the marshmallow mixture is overheated or pressed too firmly into the pan. Use low heat and gently press the mixture to keep them soft.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes! Replace butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute, and ensure your marshmallows are gelatin-free.

How can I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. To freeze, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and store them for up to 6 weeks.

Can I use a microwave instead of a stove?

Yes! Melt butter and marshmallows in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring in between until smooth, then mix with Rice Krispies cereal.

Who invented Original Rice Krispie Treat Recipe and when?

Rice Krispie Treats were invented by Mildred Day and Malitta Jensen, two Kellogg’s employees, in 1939. They originally created the recipe as a fundraiser for the Camp Fire Girls.

What makes Rice Krispie Treats so popular?

Rice Krispie Treats are easy to make, require no baking, and have a perfect balance of chewiness and crunch. Their nostalgic taste and simple ingredients make them a household favorite for generations.

What is the surprising secret ingredient in Original Rice Krispie Treat Recipe?

While the classic recipe only calls for butter, marshmallows, and Rice Krispies cereal, some bakers swear by adding a pinch of salt, vanilla extract, or extra butter to enhance the flavor and make them even softer.

What are some fun facts about Rice Krispie Treats?

The world’s largest Rice Krispie Treat weighed over 5,500 pounds!
The snap, crackle, and pop sound comes from air pockets in the cereal bursting when mixed with liquid.
They were originally called “Puffed Wheat Squares” before Kellogg’s popularized them with Rice Krispies cereal.

What were the original ingredients in Original Rice Krispie Treat Recipe ?

The original Rice Krispies cereal, introduced by Kellogg’s in 1928, contained just rice, sugar, salt, and malt flavoring. The famous Rice Krispie Treats recipe later incorporated marshmallows and butter for the perfect chewy texture.

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Conclusion

Making the original Rice Krispie Treat recipe is quick, fun, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you follow the classic recipe or add a creative twist, these treats will always be a crowd favorite.

Looking for more fun dessert ideas? Check out these 3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies https://myworldwiderecipe.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=1338&action=edit for another quick and easy homemade treat!