Easy Thick and Chewy Rice Krispy Treats Recipe
Introduction
These easy Rice Crispy Treats are thick, chewy, and irresistibly sweet—perfect for a quick snack or a fun dessert. With a simple combination of marshmallows, butter, and cereal, you can have them ready in no time.

Ingredients
- 5 cups Rice Krispy Cereal
- 1/4 cup salted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 bag marshmallows
- 1 dash salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Measure out all of your ingredients before you start, as the mixture can burn quickly once heated.
- Step 2: Line an 8×8-inch cake pan with parchment paper. You can use bulldog clips to hold the paper in place if desired.
- Step 3: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Step 4: Add about two-thirds of the marshmallows to the melted butter and stir frequently until fully melted. For a smoother texture without marshmallow chunks, add the entire bag at this stage.
- Step 5: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, then add the remaining marshmallows (if any) and stir a few more times.
- Step 6: Mix in the Rice Krispy cereal until it is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Step 7: Quickly transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it down evenly using a spatula.
- Step 8: Allow the treats to cool completely, about 1 hour, before cutting into squares.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a handful of mini chocolate chips to the mixture before pressing it into the pan.
- Use salted butter to enhance the sweetness and balance the flavors.
- To make cleanup easier, lightly grease your spatula before pressing the mixture into the pan.
Storage
Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them chewy longer, add a slice of bread to the container. If desired, warm them briefly in the microwave before serving to soften.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cereal?
Yes, you can substitute Rice Krispy Cereal with similar cereals like crispy corn puffs or oat puffs, but keep in mind the texture and flavor will change slightly.
How do I prevent the marshmallow mixture from burning?
Stir the marshmallows frequently over medium heat and avoid using high heat. Remove the pan from heat as soon as the marshmallows are melted to prevent burning.
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Easy Thick and Chewy Rice Krispy Treats Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 9 to 12 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This recipe for Easy Rice Crispy Treats results in thick and chewy squares that are delightfully sweet and perfect for a quick homemade dessert or snack. Using simple ingredients like Rice Krispy cereal, butter, marshmallows, and vanilla, these treats come together quickly on the stovetop, then set in the fridge for a chewy, satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 5 cups Rice Krispy Cereal
- 1 bag Marshmallows (approximately 10 oz)
- 1/4 cup salted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 dash salt
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process, as the marshmallow mixture can burn quickly if unattended.
- Line Pan: Line an 8×8-inch cake pan with parchment paper. For ease, secure the parchment with bulldog clips to keep it in place during transfer.
- Melt Butter: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Melt Marshmallows (Part 1): Add about two-thirds of the marshmallows to the melted butter. Stir frequently until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth. For a smoother texture with no marshmallow chunks, all marshmallows can be melted at this stage.
- Add Flavor and Remaining Marshmallows: Stir in the vanilla extract and dash of salt into the melted mixture. Then add the remaining marshmallows and stir a few times to combine, allowing some texture from the un-melted marshmallows.
- Add Cereal: Quickly fold in the Rice Krispy cereal until it is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Transfer and Set: Immediately transfer the mixture into the prepared cake pan. Use a spatula to smooth out the top evenly.
- Cool and Cut: Let the treats cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour until set and firm. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- For even thicker and chewier treats, press the mixture firmly into the pan before cooling.
- If you prefer a smoother texture with no marshmallow chunks, melt the entire bag of marshmallows at once.
- Using parchment paper makes it easier to lift the treats out of the pan for cutting and serving.
- Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for best freshness.
- You can add mix-ins like chocolate chips or peanut butter for variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Rice Crispy Treats, Marshmallow Treats, Easy Dessert, Chewy Rice Krispies, Quick Snack

