Classic Rice Krispie Squares
Do you ever feel nostalgic? Like you’d like to travel back in time and revisit the care-free days of your youth?
When I get a desire to “taste” my childhood, I make these classic Rice Krispie squares. They are simple, fast and so chewy when you eat them. And they are one of the few treats that I can still pack in a school lunch without fear of triggering someone’s allergies. Yes, I know you can buy these pre-made, pre-packaged right from the store, but I find that they just taste different. I much prefer the home-made version.
As fast as they are to make, they don’t last long at my house because both my daughters have a “thing” for marshmallows… and sprinkles! In fact, my daughters love marshmallows so much, I have to hide the bag from them if I want to make these squares. I can’t tell you how many times I have hoped to make this recipe only to find out that all the marshmallows were already gone! (But, that’s another story.)
Believe it or not, you can change this recipe up a bit, depending on your preferences. If you prefer a chewier square, just add the minimum measurement of Rice Krispies. If you love crunch, add the max. You can also add different kinds of cereals instead of the typical Rice Krispies. I’ve seen Cheerios or Corn Flakes (Frosted Flakes would make it too sweet, I think) and nuts combined. Also, during Christmas time, Rice Krispies can be found in a limited-edition tri-coloured combination, which makes them visually stunning.
So, if you’re having a craving, bring out your pot, and your cereal box and get to work!
- 4 cups mini marshmallows (or 40 large) approx. 225g
- ¼ cup butter
- 4-5 cups Rice Krispie cereal (or other non-sweetened cereal)
- 1 tsp vanilla
- sprinkles (optional)
- Melt butter and marshmallows in large saucepan over medium-low heat on stovetop, stirring frequently.
- After all the marshmallows are melted, remove from heat and add vanilla. Stir well.
- Add Rice Krispies to melted marshmallows and stir well until all Krispies are sticky. (If your pan is large enough, mix in it, if not, use a large bowl.)
- Empty mixture into 9"x13" greased pan and press down with a damp spatula or damp fingers.
- Add sprinkles before squares cool.
- Allow to "set" for at least 30 minutes before slicing into squares.
- You can change the type of cereal you use, or use a combination, if you are feeling creative.
- Using 4 cups of cereal will result in a chewier square. Using 5 cups of cereal will make the squares crispier.
- Store covered in the pan for up to 5 days.