A quick, festive treat that’s easy to make and fun for kids and adults. These Christmas Rice Crispy Treats are soft, sweet, and bright with sprinkles or food coloring. You can shape them into balls, trees, or stars for holiday parties or an easy dessert.
Why you’ll want to make these for the holidays
They take just a few ingredients, need no baking, and come together in minutes. Kids can help roll and decorate, and they store well for a day or two. If you like simple party treats that look festive, you’ll enjoy these. For another fun cereal-based option, check out this tasty chicken satay crispy rice salad bowls recipe: chicken satay crispy rice salad bowls with peanut sauce.
Step-by-step: Make Christmas Rice Crispy Treats
Follow these directions in order for best results.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 package (10 oz) marshmallows or 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- Sprinkles for decoration
- Optional: food coloring for festive colors
How to put the treats together (Directions)
- In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat.
- Once melted, add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until well coated.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then grease your hands with butter and form the mixture into balls.
- Roll the balls in sprinkles for decoration.
- Let them cool completely before serving.
Best ways to serve your Christmas treats
Serve them on a platter or in a festive box. For a fun display, arrange balls in a tree shape or put them on colorful cupcake liners. They’re great at cookie exchanges, school parties, or piled next to hot cocoa.
How to keep them fresh and store leftovers
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Longer storage: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before eating.
Avoid refrigerating — it can make them tough or sticky.
Helpful tips for perfect rice crispy treats
- Use low heat when melting marshmallows to prevent burning.
- Grease your hands or use a lightly buttered scoop to shape balls without them sticking.
- Add food coloring a drop at a time to get bright, even colors.
- If you like softer treats, add 1 tablespoon extra butter or use slightly fewer cereal cups.
For creative shape ideas and spooky versions, see this fun Frankenstein Rice Krispie project: Frankenstein Halloween Rice Krispie Treats.
Small variations you can try
- Add a handful of chopped nuts or chocolate chips for texture.
- Mix in peppermint pieces or use peppermint extract for a holiday flavor.
- Press into a greased pan, chill slightly, and cut into squares instead of rolling balls.
- Use colored marshmallows or add gel food coloring to the marshmallow mixture for bright green or red treats.
Quick nutrition estimate (approximate)
Per ball (if you make about 24 small balls):
- Calories: ~120
- Fat: 4 g
- Carbs: 20 g
- Protein: 1 g
These are rough estimates only and will vary by size and exact ingredients.
Simple serving ideas for family gatherings
- Put them on a tiered holiday tray with cookies and candies.
- Pack a few in small clear bags tied with ribbon for neighbors or teachers.
- Serve with a selection of hot drinks — cocoa, coffee, or spiced cider — for a warm treat pairing. For another crunchy bowl idea to serve alongside, try this chicken satay crispy rice salad bowls page: chicken satay crispy rice salad bowls.
What pairs well with these treats
- Hot chocolate or coffee for a cozy combo.
- Fruit slices or a simple yogurt dip to balance sweetness.
- Small cookies or candy canes for a holiday dessert spread.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature or freeze for longer storage.
Q: Can I use a microwave instead of the stovetop?
A: Yes. Melt butter and marshmallows in 30-second intervals, stirring between, then stir in cereal.
Q: How do I keep them from getting hard?
A: Avoid overcooking the marshmallows and store airtight at room temperature. Adding a little extra butter can help keep them soft.
Q: Can I use a different cereal?
A: Yes — use a puffed rice cereal similar to Rice Krispies for the best texture.
Conclusion
If you want more themed ideas or alternative recipes, these pages are full of holiday inspiration: Christmas Rice Krispie Treats • Love From The Oven, Christmas Rice Krispie Treats — Hungry Enough To Eat Six, and Christmas Rice Krispie Treats – My Messy Kitchen.
Christmas Rice Crispy Treats
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 10 oz marshmallows or 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- to taste Sprinkles for decoration
- to taste Optional: food coloring for festive colors
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat.
- Once melted, add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until well coated.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then grease your hands with butter and form the mixture into balls.
- Roll the balls in sprinkles for decoration.
- Let them cool completely before serving.
