Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Introduction

These Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats offer a festive twist on a classic favorite. Infused with warm spices and rich molasses, they bring the cozy flavors of gingerbread to a simple, chewy snack the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 10 oz mini marshmallows (about 4 cups)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons molasses
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat.
3. Step 3: Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they are completely melted and smooth.
4. Step 4: Stir in the molasses, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, and vanilla extract if using. Mix well until fully combined.
5. Step 5: Remove the saucepan from heat and gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
6. Step 6: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press it down evenly using a spatula or lightly greased hands.
7. Step 7: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes until firm.
8. Step 8: Lift the treats out using the parchment paper and cut into 12 squares or use cookie cutters to make festive shapes.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, toast the spices lightly in a dry pan before adding to bring out their aroma.
• If you prefer a softer treat, decrease cooking time slightly or add an extra tablespoon of butter.
• Swap out the molasses for honey for a milder sweetness and different flavor profile.
• Add mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts after folding in the cereal for a fun texture contrast.

Storage

Store the Rice Krispie treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them soft, avoid refrigerating unless you plan to consume them within a day. Reheat briefly in the microwave if they become too firm.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular-sized marshmallows instead of mini ones?

Yes, you can use regular marshmallows; just measure an equivalent volume or weight. Mini marshmallows melt more quickly, but regular ones will work fine.

What if I don’t have molasses on hand?

Molasses provides that classic gingerbread depth, but you can substitute with dark corn syrup or honey for a different, though still tasty, flavor.

Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

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These Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats are a festive twist on the classic cereal treat, infused with warm gingerbread spices and rich molasses. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy snack, they combine the crunch of Rice Krispies with a sweet and spiced marshmallow mixture for a chewy, flavorful delight.

• Author: Stella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 squares 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Wet Ingredients

• 10 oz mini marshmallows (about 4 cups)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons molasses
• Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter to prevent sticking.
2. Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat, ensuring it doesn’t burn. Add 10 oz mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add Gingerbread Flavoring: Stir in 3 tablespoons molasses, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves, and the optional 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the spices and molasses are fully incorporated into the marshmallow mixture.
4. Combine with Cereal: Remove the saucepan from heat. Add 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal and gently fold until the cereal is evenly coated with the spiced marshmallow mixture.
5. Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula or lightly greased hands to press the mixture down evenly, avoiding crushing the cereal too much.
6. Cool and Cut: Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until firm. Once set, carefully lift the parchment paper out of the pan and place the treats on a cutting board. Cut into 12 squares or use cookie cutters to make festive holiday shapes.

Notes

• Use parchment paper to easily lift the treats out of the pan without breaking.
• For extra festive treats, sprinkle some colored sugar or holiday-themed sprinkles on top before the mixture sets.
• If you prefer a stronger vanilla flavor, do not omit the optional vanilla extract.
• Be careful not to overheat marshmallows to prevent burning and maintaining smooth texture.
• Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for best freshness.

Keywords: Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats, Holiday Treats, Spiced Marshmallow Treats, Festive Dessert, Molasses Rice Krispies