If you’ve ever wished you could wrap the bright, zesty flavor of a classic dessert into a fun, crunchy snack, then these Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats are exactly what you need. Bursting with the tangy freshness of key lime juice and zest, layered with the satisfying crunch of crispy rice cereal and graham crackers, these treats bring a delightful twist to the familiar marshmallow snack. The creamy white chocolate drizzle with a hint of lime zest tops it off beautifully, making Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats an irresistible, vibrant treat that will brighten any occasion.

Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating these unforgettable Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats. Each component plays an essential role—whether it’s the buttery richness, the tangy citrus kick, or the satisfying crunch that balances the soft marshmallow texture.

5 cups crispy rice cereal: Provides that classic, airy crunch that’s key to any Rice Krispie treat.
8 whole graham crackers, chopped and divided: Adds a sweet, slightly toasted flavor reminiscent of pie crust.
5 tablespoons unsalted butter: Brings richness and helps melt the marshmallows smoothly.
10 cups miniature marshmallows, divided: Essential for that gooey, chewy texture that binds everything together.
6 key limes, juiced and zested (divided): Infuses the treats with fresh, tart citrus notes that define the pie-inspired flavor.
4 ounces white chocolate or vanilla almond bark: Adds a creamy, sweet drizzle that complements the tartness beautifully.
½ teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable oil: Helps melt the white chocolate to a silky, drizzling consistency.

How to Make Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Prepare your pan and mix the dry ingredients

Start by giving your 9×13-inch baking dish a quick spray with non-stick cooking spray, so nothing sticks later on. Next, toss 5 cups of crispy rice cereal with about 5 to 6 of the chopped graham crackers in a large bowl. This mix of crunch and graham cracker bits will give your treat that unmistakable pie-crust feel.

Step 2: Melt butter and marshmallows

Gently melt 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in 8 cups of miniature marshmallows. Keep stirring over low heat until the marshmallows and butter blend into a smooth, glossy mixture that’s perfectly sticky and sweet.

Step 3: Mix in the key lime zest and juice

Remove your marshmallow mixture from heat and stir in the zest and juice from 4 key limes. Roughly 1 ½ tablespoons of juice and 2 teaspoons of zest pack in a bright, citrus punch that makes these treats so uniquely delicious.

Step 4: Combine cereal mixture and remaining marshmallows

Now stir in your cereal and graham cracker mixture along with the remaining 2 cups of marshmallows. Don’t worry if these last marshmallows don’t fully melt—they add extra gooey pockets within the treats that make each bite exciting.

Step 5: Press the mixture into the pan and top

Using a rubber spatula coated in non-stick spray (this helps the sticky mixture spread smoothly), press your marshmallow-coated cereal evenly into the prepared pan. Then quickly sprinkle the remaining chopped graham crackers on top, pressing them lightly so they stick just enough for that added texture and visual appeal.

Step 6: Prepare and drizzle the white chocolate lime topping

In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate or vanilla almond bark with ½ teaspoon of coconut or vegetable oil. Heat it in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until silky smooth. Stir in the zest from 1 to 2 key limes (about 1 teaspoon) to give the drizzle that signature citrus kick. Then, drizzle this luscious white chocolate over the top of your treats evenly.

Step 7: Let set and slice

Patience is key! Allow the treats to rest for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. This lets the flavors meld and the chocolate topping to firm up perfectly before you slice them into bars and enjoy.

How to Serve Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats

Garnishes

A little garnish can make these treats even more special. Consider topping with thin lime slices, a sprinkle of extra zest, or even a few crushed graham crackers for extra texture and color contrast. These simple touches bring a fresh flare that captivates the eyes before delighting the taste buds.

Side Dishes

Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats are wonderful on their own, but pairing them with freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns them into a truly indulgent dessert experience. A cup of tart lemonade or iced green tea also complements their zesty sweetness beautifully for a refreshing combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Serve the treats on a bright green or citrus-themed platter, arrange small ramekins of extra lime zest and mini marshmallows for dipping, or cut the bars into fun shapes using cookie cutters. These creative ideas turn a simple snack into a festive conversation starter!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can easily keep your Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay chewy and flavorful for up to 4 to 5 days, perfect for snacking throughout the week.

Freezing

Want to save some for later? Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats retain their texture and taste well for up to a month—just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

Since these treats are best enjoyed chewy and fresh, reheating is usually unnecessary. If you prefer them a little softer, a few seconds in the microwave can do the trick—just be careful not to overheat or they’ll become too sticky.

FAQs

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, regular limes can work if key limes are unavailable, although the flavor may be slightly less aromatic and bright. Adjust the juice amount to taste to maintain balance.

What if I don’t have vanilla almond bark? Can I use white chocolate only?

Absolutely! White chocolate alone works beautifully for the drizzle; almond bark is just a convenient melting option. Choose whichever you prefer based on taste and texture.

Can I make these treats gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free crispy rice cereal and substitute the graham crackers with a certified gluten-free version. This keeps the flavor and texture close to the original.

Is it okay if the extra marshmallows don’t fully melt?

Yes, partially melted marshmallows create chewy, gooey pockets that add wonderful texture contrast to the treats. It’s part of what makes these bars feel extra special.

How can I make the treats less sticky to handle?

Spraying your spatula and hands with non-stick cooking spray before shaping helps a lot. Also, letting the treats cool completely makes them easier to cut and handle without sticking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly joyful about making and sharing Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats. They blend nostalgic comfort with a tropical twist that’s bound to brighten any snack time or celebration. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you’ll find it’s not only delicious but also a fun adventure in flavor that captures the essence of summer all year round.

Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 15 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 1 hour (including chilling time)
Yield: 12–16 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats combine the classic crispy texture of rice cereal with the tangy, refreshing flavors of key lime pie. Featuring graham crackers, melted marshmallows infused with fresh lime juice and zest, and a decadent white chocolate drizzle, this no-bake treat is perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a zesty sweet snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

5 cups crispy rice cereal
8 whole graham crackers, chopped and divided
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 cups miniature marshmallows, divided
6 key limes, juiced and zested (divided as per recipe steps)
4 ounces white chocolate or vanilla almond bark
½ teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable oil

Instructions

Prepare the Dish: Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick baking spray and set it aside for later.
Mix Cereal and Graham Crackers: In a large bowl, stir together the 5 cups of crispy rice cereal and about 5-6 chopped graham crackers; set this mixture aside.
Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add 8 cups of miniature marshmallows and stir continuously until the marshmallows and butter form a smooth, fully melted mixture.
Add Lime and Combine: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the zest and juice from 4 key limes (about 1½ tablespoons juice and 2 teaspoons zest). Then fold in the cereal and graham cracker mixture along with the remaining 2 cups of marshmallows, stirring until everything is well combined. It’s fine if these last marshmallows are only partially melted.
Press Into Pan and Top: Using a rubber spatula lightly sprayed with non-stick spray, evenly spread the marshmallow-coated cereal mixture into the prepared baking dish. Quickly press the remaining chopped graham crackers onto the top of the treats for added crunch.
Melt White Chocolate and Add Zest: In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine 4 ounces of white chocolate and ½ teaspoon of coconut or vegetable oil. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then microwave for another 30 seconds if needed until completely melted. Stir in zest from 1-2 key limes (approximately 1 teaspoon) into the melted white chocolate.
Drizzle Chocolate and Set: Drizzle the white chocolate mixture evenly over the top of the cereal treats in the pan. Let the treats sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour to firm up before slicing.
Store: Store the Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days for best freshness.

Notes

Use fresh key limes for the best authentic tangy flavor, but bottled key lime juice can be substituted in a pinch.
If white chocolate is too thick, add a little more coconut or vegetable oil to thin it for easier drizzling.
Pressing the graham crackers on top while the mixture is still warm helps them stick better.
These treats are best enjoyed within a few days for optimal texture and flavor.
Use non-stick spray on your spatula to prevent sticking when spreading the mixture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert, Snack
Method: No-bake, stovetop melting
Cuisine: American