Soft and gooey Rice Krispie treats are one of my absolute favorite easy dessert recipes to make! They’re one of the first things I learned to make on my own, both in the microwave and on the stovetop, and I still make them all the time. With just 3 simple ingredients, these treats are so easy to make any which way you desire!
Microwave vs. Stovetop: Which Method is Best?
I first learned to make Rice Krispie treats in the microwave over the phone with my mom while I was in college. I’ll never forget the panic of watching the marshmallows expand to three times their size! Now I know how to make them on the stove, too, but I still opt for the microwave when I’m in a hurry. Here’s my recommendation:
- Use the Microwave if you’re in a hurry or working in a small space (like a dorm). It’s fast and requires less cleanup.
- Use the Stovetop if you want more control. This method also allows you to brown the butter first, which adds a sophisticated, nutty flavor to the classic recipe.
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How to Prevent Rock-Hard Cereal Treats
The #1 mistake I see people make is overheating the marshmallows, which causes the treats to turn out hard and brittle. To keep your Rice Krispie treats gooey and soft, you have to watch the melt closely:
- On the stove: Melt the butter and marshmallows over low heat only. Turn off the burner when there are still a few small lumps of marshmallow visible. Stirring will melt the rest.
- In the microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts. Stop the second the marshmallows look puffed.
- Press gently: Never pack the mixture into the pan with force. Use a buttered spatula to gently pat them into place. If you press too hard, you’ll lose those tiny air pockets that make them easy to bite!
Gooey Rice Krispie Treats Recipe (Stovetop or Microwave)
Equipment
- Kitchen Scale (optional)
- 9×13 Baking Pan
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons salted butter (⅜ stick)*
- 4 cups miniature marshmallows (about 6 ounces)**
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Instructions
- Line a 9×13 baking pan with wax paper, or coat with butter.
Stovetop Instructions
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat, stirring continuously. Once melted, add in the marshmallows and continue stirring until they have nearly completely melted with the butter. Remove from stovetop.3 tablespoons salted butter, 4 cups miniature marshmallows
- Pour in the Rice Krispies and stir until they are evenly coated with the melted marshmallow and butter.6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- Press the mixture into the prepared pan using a greased rubber spatula. Let cool and set for at least 30 minutes before cutting.
Microwave Instructions
- In an extra-large microwave-safe large bowl, melt marshmallows in 30-second increments for about 2-3 minutes, until puffed.4 cups miniature marshmallows
- Once melted, remove the bowl from the microwave and stir the butter into the marshmallows. Pour in the Rice Krispie cereal and stir to combine.3 tablespoons salted butter, 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- Press the mixture into the prepared pan using a greased rubber spatula. Let cool and set for at least 30 minutes before cutting.
Notes
- Line or grease the baking pan to prevent the treats from sticking!
- For a smaller batch in an 8×8-inch pan, simply halve all the ingredients.
- Use fresh cereal and fresh marshmallows; stale just won’t work!
- Toss some extra marshmallows in with the cereal for pockets of marshmallowy goodness!
- Use a lightly greased rubber spatula and gently press the bars into the pan. If packed too firm, they will become hard!
- Let the treats set for at least 30 minutes before cutting to avoid a sticky mess!
- Try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of almond extract, or 1 tablespoon of flavored gelatin or pudding mix to pump up the flavor.
- You could also brown the butter for richer-tasting treats.
Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered this base recipe, you can easily customize it:
- Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats: An easy way to upgrade the classic with melty pockets of chocolate chips.
- Chocolate Peanut Butter: Peanut butter and honey add nutty sweetness, and a chocolate fudge layer on top is the perfect finish.
- Holiday: Add festive candies for Halloween or Easter treats, or dye them Grinch Green for Christmas!
How to Make Rice Krispie Treats Step-by-Step
Prep: Gather up everything you need to make these gooey Rice Krispie treats. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with wax paper, or coat with butter. If microwaving, make sure to grab the largest microwave-safe bowl you have on hand.
Melt the Marshmallows: In a large saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of salted butter over low heat, stirring continuously. Once melted, add in 4 cups of miniature marshmallows and continue stirring until they have nearly melted. Remove from the stovetop and let the residual heat finish the job to keep them gooey! You can also do this step in the microwave by cooking the marshmallows in 30-second increments for 2-3 minutes, then stirring in the butter until melted.
Mix in the Cereal: Pour in 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal and stir until they are evenly coated with the melted marshmallow and butter.
Press and Set: Use a lightly sprayed rubber spatula, and pour the Krispie mixture into the pan. Use the back of the spatula or a piece of wax paper over the treats, and press them into the pan. Allow the treats to cool and the marshmallows to set for about 30 minutes. Cut into squares and serve.
How to Store and Freeze
Store leftover gooey Rice Krispie treats in the original pan, tightly wrapped with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days. Slice off servings as you eat them to keep the treats softer for longer. I do not recommend refrigerating Rice Krispie treats, as this can make them brittle.
Freeze cut treats in a single layer on a lined baking sheet until solid, about 1-2 hours. Transfer to an airtight container or zip-top bag with layers separated by wax paper to store for up to 6 weeks. Let thaw at room temperature for about 1 hour before serving.
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