Perfect Rice Krispie Bars Recipe

These Rice Krispie bars are the ultimate soft, chewy, and buttery treat! Made with fresh butter, gooey marshmallows, and a hint of vanilla, this classic snack is easy to make and always a crowd favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft & chewy – no hard, dry bars here!
• Uses fresh ingredients for the best flavor
• Quick & easy – only 10 minutes of prep
• Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or anytime snacking
• Customizable – add mix-ins like chocolate or sprinkles

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 6 tablespoons salted butter
• 16-ounce bag mini marshmallows (divided)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal

Directions

1. Melt the Butter & Marshmallows

• In a large pot over low heat, melt butter.
• Add ¾ of the mini marshmallows and stir until fully melted and smooth.
• Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

2. Mix in the Cereal

• Gently fold in Rice Krispies cereal, coating them evenly.
• Add the remaining ¼ of the marshmallows and stir lightly for extra texture.

3. Press into a Pan

• Lightly grease a 9×9-inch pan or line with parchment paper.
• Press the mixture gently into the pan (do not pack too tightly).

4. Let Set & Slice

• Let bars cool at room temperature for 1 hour.
• Cut into squares and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 9 large bars (or 12 smaller bars)
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Setting Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over the top.
• Peanut Butter Twist: Stir in ½ cup peanut butter with the melted marshmallows.
• Festive Treats: Add sprinkles, M&Ms, or colored marshmallows for holidays.
• Extra Marshmallow Chunks: Reserve some mini marshmallows and fold them in at the end.

Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Not recommended, as it can make the bars too hard.
• Freezing: Wrap bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

FAQs

1. How do I keep Rice Krispie bars soft?

Use fresh marshmallows and butter, and don’t press them too firmly into the pan.

2. Can I use marshmallow fluff instead?

Yes! Substitute one 7-ounce jar of marshmallow fluff for the mini marshmallows.

3. Why are my Rice Krispie treats hard?

The heat was too high when melting the marshmallows. Always melt on low heat for the softest texture.

4. Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan for a larger batch.

5. What’s the best way to cut clean squares?

Grease your knife with butter or spray with cooking spray before slicing.

6. Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini?

Yes! Use about 10 cups of large marshmallows, but cut them into smaller pieces for even melting.

7. Can I add mix-ins like nuts or candy?

Absolutely! Stir in chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or crushed cookies for extra crunch.

8. How can I make these dairy-free?

Use vegan butter and dairy-free marshmallows.

9. Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes! Just ensure your Rice Krispies cereal is certified gluten-free.

10. Do I need to refrigerate them?

No! Store at room temperature in an airtight container for the best texture.

Conclusion

These perfect Rice Krispie bars are an easy, no-bake snack that everyone loves! Whether you’re making them for a party, school lunch, or a quick dessert, they’re soft, chewy, and packed with marshmallow goodness. Try them today!

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