If you’re craving a treat that’s both nostalgic and delightfully fun, this Rice Krispie Treat Cookies Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine the crispy snap of Rice Krispies mixed with soft, chewy cookie dough and a gooey marshmallow surprise right in the center. This recipe takes beloved childhood cereal treats to a whole new level, delivering a cookie that’s bursting with texture, sweetness, and a playful twist you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet come together to create the perfect balance of crispy, chewy, and sweet that make these cookies unforgettable. Each one plays its part—from the rich butter giving moisture and flavor, to the Rice Krispies adding that signature crunch and the marshmallows providing a melty center.
- Butter (1 stick, room temperature): Helps create a soft, tender cookie base with rich flavor.
- Sugar (½ cup): Adds sweetness and helps with cookie browning.
- Brown sugar (½ cup, packed): Brings moisture and a deep, caramel-like note to the dough.
- Egg (1): Binds the ingredients and contributes to the cookie’s chewy texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Elevates all the sweet flavors with a warm, inviting aroma.
- Flour (1 ¾ cups): The foundation of your cookie, providing structure without heaviness.
- Baking powder (½ teaspoon): Gives the dough a slight lift for a light, tender bite.
- Rice Krispies cereal (½ cup): Delivers the iconic crisp snap in every bite.
- Marshmallows (1 cup): The star surprise, melting into a gooey center that melts hearts.
How to Make Rice Krispie Treat Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is at the perfect temperature to bake the cookies evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This step is key for a tender and sweet cookie base, setting the stage for the rest of the flavors to blend beautifully.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. The egg adds richness and structure, while the vanilla boosts the sweet and buttery notes, making your kitchen smell amazing.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir in the flour and baking powder. This slow addition helps develop the dough without overmixing, which keeps the cookies light and soft.
Step 5: Fold in Rice Krispies Cereal
Gently fold the Rice Krispies cereal into the dough, distributing that crispy texture throughout each cookie. The cereal adds a fun crunch that’s totally irresistible.
Step 6: Form Dough Balls with Marshmallows
Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough into balls. Flatten each one slightly, place a marshmallow in the center, then carefully roll the dough around it. For an extra crispy touch, coat the outside of the dough balls with more Rice Krispies cereal.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the prepared dough balls on your lined baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers remain a bit gooey, signaling that perfect marshmallow melty core.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet to set but still warm enough so the marshmallow stays luscious. These are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later indulgence.
How to Serve Rice Krispie Treat Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For a delightful presentation, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top or drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies. You can also add a pinch of rainbow sprinkles for a fun, party-ready look that will make everyone smile before they even take a bite.
Side Dishes
Pair these treats with a cold glass of milk or a creamy hot chocolate to complement the cookie’s sweetness and enhance their nostalgic feel. For a brunch twist, serve alongside fresh fruit or vanilla yogurt to balance the sweetness with something fresh and light.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking a few cookies with layers of marshmallow fluff or peanut butter between for a cookie sandwich that’s a showstopper. Alternatively, serve the cookies warm with ice cream on the side for a simple but indulgent dessert that everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Rice Krispie Treat Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their crisp edges while keeping the marshmallow center soft and approachable.
Freezing
If you’re thinking ahead, these cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Just thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly-baked warmth, pop the cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. The marshmallow center will soften again, giving you that gooey delight freshly made. Avoid overheating to prevent melting the cereal coating.
FAQs
Can I use mini marshmallows instead of regular-sized ones?
Absolutely! Mini marshmallows work well and may even melt a little more evenly inside the cookie, although the surprise center won’t be as large.
Will these cookies be very sweet?
They do have a sweet profile since they combine sugars and marshmallows, but the crunch of Rice Krispies adds balance so the sweetness is enjoyable, not overwhelming.
Can I substitute Rice Krispies with another cereal?
You can try cereals with a similar crisp texture, but Rice Krispies are ideal for that classic snap and lightness. Some alternatives might alter the texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have baking powder?
Baking powder gives a subtle lift to the cookies. Omitting it might result in denser cookies, but they will still taste delicious.
Are these cookies kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love the chewy marshmallow surprise inside and the fun crunch from the cereal. They’re great for school parties or a special homemade dessert.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Rice Krispie Treat Cookies Recipe is like rediscovering a childhood favorite in cookie form—full of whimsy, texture, and warm flavors that bring pure joy in every bite. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, these cookies are sure to become a cherished staple in your recipe rotation. Grab your ingredients and let’s create some magic!
Print
Rice Krispie Treat Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these fun and crispy Rice Krispie Treat Cookies that combine the classic crunch of Rice Krispies cereal with gooey marshmallows inside a soft cookie dough. Perfect for a nostalgic treat that’s easy to make and sure to please kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 stick butter, room temperature
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup Rice Krispies cereal
Filling and Coating
- 1 cup marshmallows
- Additional Rice Krispies cereal for coating
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar until the mixture is smooth, light, and creamy, ensuring a good base for your cookie dough.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract thoroughly until fully combined, which helps bind the ingredients and adds moisture.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually incorporate the flour and baking powder, mixing carefully until a consistent dough forms without overmixing to keep cookies tender.
- Fold in Rice Krispies: Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal to retain their crunch and distribute them evenly throughout the dough.
- Shape Cookies: Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough. Flatten each dough ball slightly, place one marshmallow in the center, then roll the dough around the marshmallow to encase it completely. Roll the dough ball in additional Rice Krispies cereal to coat the outside.
- Bake: Arrange the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-14 minutes until the edges turn golden and the centers remain slightly gooey, indicating a perfect balance of texture.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet to set before transferring to a wire rack or serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can substitute mini marshmallows or use your favorite flavored marshmallows for a twist.
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature to achieve a smooth dough consistency.
- For extra crunch, add a handful of chopped nuts if desired.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer a less gooey center, allow cookies to bake an additional 1-2 minutes.
