Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

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If you have a sweet tooth and crave a nostalgic treat with a delightful twist, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe. Imagine the classic gooey texture of Rice Krispie treats infused with the rich flavors of creamy milk chocolate and warm hot chocolate mix, creating an irresistible mashup perfect for cozy afternoons or festive gatherings. The addition of mini marshmallows and fun toppings makes every bite a joyous celebration of flavor and texture that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is surprisingly simple to whip up, involving ingredients you probably already have on hand or can find easily. Each element plays a crucial role — from the buttery richness and melty chocolate to the iconic crispness of the cereal and the fluffy marshmallows that bind it all together beautifully.

• ½ cup butter: This adds a smooth richness that helps everything meld perfectly without being greasy.
• ½ cup milk chocolate chips: Melts into creamy sweet pools, bringing that beloved chocolate flavor.
• ½ cup hot chocolate mix: Infuses the treats with a cozy, warm cocoa taste that sets this recipe apart.
• 1 bag marshmallows (10 ounces, 40 large marshmallows): These joyful morsels melt down to create the signature sticky, chewy texture.
• 6 cups Rice Krispies Cereal: Provides that charming crunch and lightness, the backbone of every treat.
• ⅓ cup mini marshmallows: Added last for some marshmallow variety—some melt, some stay delightfully soft.
• Chocolate Sprinkles, Mini chocolate chips, Dehydrated marshmallows, Crushed candy canes: These toppings add festive flair and extra bursts of flavor and texture.

How to Make Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by greasing a 9″x13″ baking tray with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures your treats release easily once set, saving you from any sticky situations later.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

Place a large pot on low heat and melt your ½ cup of butter gently. Low and slow is key here to avoid burning and to allow a smooth, even melt that will carry the flavors beautifully.

Step 3: Add Milk Chocolate Chips

Once the butter has liquefied, add the ½ cup milk chocolate chips. Stir continuously until the chocolate melts completely into a luscious, silky mixture that envelops every bite in creamy goodness.

Step 4: Stir in Hot Chocolate Mix

Next, mix in the ½ cup hot chocolate mix thoroughly. This is the magic ingredient that takes your classic Rice Krispie treats to a new level with that subtle, warming cocoa flavor you’ll notice with every bite.

Step 5: Melt the Large Marshmallows

Pour in the entire bag of marshmallows and stir continuously while keeping the heat low. Watch as the marshmallows melt into the chocolate-butter blend, transforming it into a stretchy, sticky, and heavenly base for your treats.

Step 6: Mix in Rice Krispies Cereal

Remove the pot from heat and immediately add the 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal. Gently fold them in with a spatula or wooden spoon until every crispy piece is coated. Tip: Spray your spatula lightly with cooking spray to prevent the sticky mixture from clinging too much—it makes mixing so much easier!

Step 7: Add Mini Marshmallows

Fold in ⅓ cup of mini marshmallows carefully. Some will partially melt, adding gooey pockets throughout, while others remain whole, giving your treats irresistible texture contrasts.

Step 8: Press Into Pan

Transfer the mixture into your prepared pan and gently spread it out evenly. Don’t press it down hard; a light touch keeps the treats airy yet cohesive. This ensures the perfect chewiness we all love.

Step 9: Decorate and Press Toppings

Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle mini marshmallows, chocolate sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, dehydrated marshmallows, crushed candy canes, or any other goodies you like on top. Gently press them so they stick but maintain their charming appearance.

Step 10: Cool and Slice

Allow your Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats to cool completely for about 30 minutes. Once set, slice into 18 or 24 squares, depending on your preferred serving size, and get ready to enjoy a blissful, chocolaty snack.

How to Serve Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your presentation by adding a sprinkling of crushed candy canes or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top just before serving. These little touches add festive colors and an extra burst of flavor that your guests will love.

Side Dishes

While these treats are fantastic on their own, pairing them with a mug of creamy hot cocoa or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can turn your snack into an indulgent mini dessert experience that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering your Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe in clear jars or small cups topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for a fun party presentation. Alternatively, cut them into festive shapes using cookie cutters for themed celebrations—kids and adults alike will be charmed.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and chewy for about 3 to 4 days, perfect for enjoying throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, wrap each treat individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months—just thaw at room temperature before indulging.

Reheating

These treats are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you want a warm, melty bite, pop them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. The marshmallows will soften, and the chocolate will gently melt, making each bite extra cozy.

FAQs

Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give your Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe a deeper, more intense flavor. Just be aware that it’s less sweet, so you might want to slightly adjust the hot chocolate mix or add a bit more marshmallows for balance.

What if I don’t have hot chocolate mix on hand?

If you don’t have hot chocolate mix, you can use cocoa powder combined with a bit of sugar and a pinch of salt as a substitute. This keeps the chocolate flavor strong and authentic in the recipe.

Can I make these treats vegan?

With a few substitutions like dairy-free butter, vegan chocolate chips, and vegan marshmallows, you can definitely adapt this Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe for a plant-based diet while still enjoying that wonderful gooey texture and flavor.

Why should I spray my spatula before mixing?

Spraying your spatula with cooking spray helps prevent the sticky marshmallow mixture from clinging excessively, making it easier to mix the cereal evenly without tugging or clumping.

Can I use a different cereal instead of Rice Krispies?

You can experiment with puffed cereals like Cocoa Puffs or Cheerios for a fun twist, but keep in mind that Rice Krispies’ light crispiness works best to balance the marshmallow coating and prevent the treats from becoming too dense.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe enough for anyone looking to add a touch of magic and warmth to a classic favorite. It’s easy, fun, and absolutely delicious—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether you’re making a batch for family movie night or a holiday party. So roll up your sleeves, gather these simple ingredients, and treat yourself to something wonderfully sweet and nostalgic today!

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