Homemade Rice Krispie Treats

Ingredients

• 6 tbsp salted butter
• 6 cup mini marshmallows
• 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 cup rice krispie cereal (Generic crispy rice cereal may be used.)
• oil (For lightly coating the dish and spatula.)

Steps

1. 1

   Line an 8-by-8-inch dish with waxed paper or foil. Lightly coat the lining with oil.

2. 2

   Add the salted butter to a pot and melt it over medium heat.

3. 3

   Once the butter has melted, add the mini marshmallows. Stir and cook until the marshmallows are melted and fully incorporated into the butter. Do not cook the mixture longer than necessary.

4. 4

   Remove the pot from the heat, then stir in the vanilla extract.

5. 5

   Add the rice krispie cereal and stir until every piece is coated in the marshmallow mixture.

6. 6

   Transfer the mixture to the prepared dish. Using a lightly oiled spatula, gently press it into an even layer, taking care not to compact the treats too firmly.

7. 7

   Allow the treats to cool at room temperature or in the refrigerator until solid and firm.

8. 8

   Slice the set treats into 9 pieces and serve.

Notes

Use fresh marshmallows for the softest texture. Keep the butter and marshmallow mixture over the heat only until the marshmallows melt; overcooking can make the treats harder. Store at room temperature for a couple of days, refrigerated for about five days, or in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. Frozen pieces can thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving. Other cereals, such as corn flakes, Cheerios, corn puffs, or fruity cereals, may be used as variations.

Nutrition per serving

• dessert
• snack
• no-bake
• American
• vegetarian
• kid-friendly
• make-ahead