Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats

Craving a nostalgic snack with a holiday twist?

Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats blend the gooey, crispy goodness of the classic Rice Krispie square with the warm, spiced flavors of gingerbread!

In just a few steps, you can transform everyday ingredients into a holiday treat that’s perfect for parties, gifting, or cozy family nights.

Let’s dive into this easy and festive recipe!

Ingredients for Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats

To make these delicious Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal – This classic cereal is essential for that crunchy texture we love.
• 10 oz mini marshmallows – Mini marshmallows melt quickly and evenly for the perfect gooey consistency.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps create the smooth base for the marshmallows.
• 3 tablespoons molasses – Gives the treats that signature gingerbread flavor and color.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, holiday aroma.
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger – Essential for that spicy gingerbread taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves – For depth and richness.
• Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the flavor.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Pan

• Line your pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will make removing the treats much easier.
• Measure out your ingredients to have them ready – things will move quickly once you start!

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows

• In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter until it’s completely liquid.
• Add the marshmallows and stir continuously until melted and smooth. It helps to keep the heat low so that the marshmallows don’t scorch.

Step 3: Add Gingerbread Flavors

• Stir in the molasses, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and vanilla extract (if using) until well incorporated.
• The molasses will give the marshmallow mixture a rich brown color, bringing out that gingerbread vibe.

Step 4: Combine with Rice Krispies

• Add the Rice Krispies to the marshmallow mixture, stirring quickly to evenly coat the cereal without crushing it.
• Make sure all pieces are well mixed with the spiced marshmallow mixture.

Step 5: Press and Set

• Pour the mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula or lightly greased hands to press it down evenly into the pan.
• Allow the treats to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until firm.

Step 6: Cut and Serve

• Once set, cut the treats into squares or festive shapes using cookie cutters. Enjoy your holiday-inspired creation!

Creative Add-Ons and Decorations

These Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats are delicious as-is, but a few creative touches can make them even more festive:

• Holiday Sprinkles: Add red, green, or white sprinkles on top before the treats set for a festive touch.
• Frosting Drizzle: Drizzle with white or colored frosting to add extra sweetness and a decorative element.
• Shape with Cookie Cutters: Use holiday-themed cookie cutters like stars, trees, or gingerbread men to create shaped treats.
• Edible Glitter or Crushed Candy Canes: For extra holiday sparkle, sprinkle a little edible glitter or crushed candy canes on top.

Serving and Storing Suggestions

• Serving Suggestions: These treats are a fun addition to a holiday dessert spread. Arrange them on a festive plate or gift them wrapped individually for a cute presentation.
• Storage Tips: Store your treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread in the container; this helps retain moisture.
• Freezing Option: For long-term storage, wrap each treat in wax paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Tips for Making the Best Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats

To ensure your treats turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Keep it Gooey: If you like extra gooey treats, add an extra cup of marshmallows to the recipe.
• Adjust the Spice Levels: Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves to suit your taste.
• Avoid Hardening: Stir the marshmallow mixture constantly to avoid scorching, and remove it from heat as soon as it’s melted. This will prevent the treats from becoming too hard.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes, you can use regular marshmallows, but they will take a bit longer to melt. Mini marshmallows melt more evenly and quickly.

How do I keep these treats from becoming too hard?

Make sure to melt the butter and marshmallows over low heat and remove from heat as soon as they are smooth. Press gently when placing in the pan to avoid compacting them too much.

Can I freeze Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats?

Yes, wrap each square individually in wax paper, place them in an airtight container, and freeze for up to one month.

Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats

Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful, no-bake holiday dessert that combines the classic Rice Krispie treat with festive gingerbread spices.

With a preparation time of only 20 minutes, these easy treats are perfect for holiday parties, gift bags, or just a cozy night in.

1 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 12 Squares

Calories 160 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 10 oz mini marshmallows about 4 cups
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons molasses
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

 

Prepare the Pan

• Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter to prevent sticking.

Melt Butter and Marshmallows

• In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat.
• Add 10 oz mini marshmallows and stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth.

Add Gingerbread Flavoring

• Stir in 3 tablespoons molasses, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional). Mix well until spices and molasses are fully combined with the marshmallow mixture.

Combine with Cereal

• Remove the saucepan from heat and add 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal. Gently fold the mixture until the cereal is evenly coated with the spiced marshmallow mix.

Press into Pan

• Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula or lightly greased hands to press the mixture down evenly.

Cool and Cut

• Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, until firm.
• Once set, lift the parchment paper out of the pan and place the treats on a cutting board. Cut into 12 squares or use cookie cutters to create holiday shapes.

Keyword Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats, Holiday Treats