These Rainbow Rice Krispie Treats are a colorful and fun twist on the classic marshmallow bars. Combining Rice Krispies and Fruity Pebbles, they are crispy, chewy, and packed with fruity flavor. These no-bake treats are perfect for birthday parties, bake sales, holiday celebrations, or as a quick snack. The bright colors make them visually appealing, while the gooey marshmallow mixture ensures a delicious texture.
Ingredients & Their Purpose
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups mini marshmallows – Provides the sticky, chewy texture and binds the cereal together.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness, smoothness, and prevents the marshmallows from becoming too stiff.
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal – Gives the classic light, crispy crunch.
- 3 cups Fruity Pebbles cereal – Adds bright colors and a fruity, sweet flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional) – Balances the sweetness and deepens the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Butter & Marshmallows
- In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat until fully liquefied.
- Add the mini marshmallows, stirring constantly with a spatula or wooden spoon.
- Continue stirring until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth.
✔ Tip: Keeping the heat low prevents the marshmallows from overheating, which can result in hard, tough bars.
Step 2: Mix in the Cereals
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt (if using).
- Add the Rice Krispies and Fruity Pebbles, gently folding them into the melted marshmallow mixture.
- Stir until all the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
✔ Tip: Work quickly at this step, as the marshmallow mixture will begin to set as it cools.
Step 3: Shape & Set
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Transfer the cereal mixture into the prepared dish.
- Use a buttered spatula, wax paper, or greased hands to gently press the mixture into the pan.
✔ Tip: Avoid pressing too firmly—this will keep the treats light, airy, and chewy rather than dense and hard.
Step 4: Cool & Slice
- Allow the treats to set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
- Once firm, cut into 12 even squares and serve.
✔ Tip: For extra neat cuts, use a sharp knife greased with butter or cooking spray.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days for best freshness.
- In the Refrigerator: Keeps for up to a week, but may become slightly firmer. Let sit at room temperature before serving.
- Freezing Option: Wrap each treat in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.
Recipe Details & Nutritional Info
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 12 bars
- Calories Per Serving: ~180 kcal
Customizations & Variations
✔ Extra Gooey Treats – Stir in an extra handful of mini marshmallows before transferring to the pan for pockets of soft, chewy marshmallow goodness.
✔ Chocolate Drizzle – Melt white chocolate, milk chocolate, or colored candy melts and drizzle over the bars for a decorative finish.
✔ Fun Shapes – Use cookie cutters to cut out fun shapes like stars, hearts, or circles.
✔ Sprinkle Magic – Add rainbow sprinkles, crushed freeze-dried fruit, or colorful sanding sugar on top for extra decoration.
✔ Marshmallow Chunks – Reserve a ¼ cup of mini marshmallows and fold them in at the end for a marshmallow-studded look.
✔ Peanut Butter Twist – Stir in ¼ cup of peanut butter when melting the butter and marshmallows for a nutty, creamy twist.
✔ Holiday-Themed Versions – Use seasonal Fruity Pebbles (like red and green for Christmas) to match any celebration.
Pro Tips for the Best Rice Krispie Treats
✔ Use Fresh Marshmallows – Stale marshmallows don’t melt as smoothly and can result in hard treats.
✔ Don’t Overheat the Marshmallows – Low heat is key. Overheating leads to hard, dry bars instead of soft and chewy.
✔ Butter Everything! – Grease your hands, spatula, and baking dish lightly with butter to prevent sticking.
✔ Mix Quickly – Once the marshmallow mixture is melted, work fast to coat the cereal before it sets.
✔ Let Them Set Properly – Resist cutting too soon—30 minutes of cooling ensures the bars hold their shape.
Final Thoughts
Rainbow Rice Krispie Treats are a quick, easy, and fun dessert that both kids and adults love. The mix of classic Rice Krispies and fruity, colorful Fruity Pebbles makes every bite a crispy, marshmallowy delight. Whether you’re making them for a school event, a holiday party, or just a sweet treat at home, they’re always a hit. Try out some of the fun variations and enjoy!