These fun Jack o’ Lantern Rice Krispie Treats are so cute and tasty! Made with gooey marshmallows, crispy rice cereal, and a dash of orange food coloring, they’re perfect for Halloween!
You’ll love how easy they are to shape into little pumpkin faces. I always add chocolate chips for eyes—makes them even more adorable! 🍬 Who can resist a festive treat like this?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice Krispies Cereal: This is the backbone of the treat. If you can’t find Rice Krispies, you can substitute any puffed rice cereal that’s similar in texture.
Mini Marshmallows: They give that sweetness and gooey texture. If you need a substitute, use regular marshmallows, just cut them into smaller pieces. You can also try vegan marshmallows for a dairy-free option.
Butter: Standard for binding everything together. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, coconut oil works well and adds a subtle flavor to the treats.
Food Coloring: Orange is key for that pumpkin look! You can also use natural food coloring if you’re looking for a healthier option, though it may not be as vibrant.
Decorating Gel: Black and green gels make the jack o’ lantern faces and leaves. If you prefer, you could use melted chocolate or colored icing instead of gels for decorating.
How Do I Shape the Rice Krispie Treats Like Pumpkins?
Shaping Rice Krispie treats can be tricky if the mixture is too hot or sticky. Here are some tips to make it easier:
- Let the mixture cool for about 5-10 minutes until it’s warm but manageable. This helps prevent the mixture from sticking too much to your hands.
- Lightly butter your hands. This creates a barrier so the mix won’t cling to you, making it easier to form into pumpkin shapes.
- Shape into cubes or rounded pumpkins. If they are uneven, dampen your hands slightly and reshape them gently for a nicer finish.
With these tips, you’ll have little pumpkins ready for decorating in no time!
Jack o’ Lantern Rice Krispie Treats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons butter
- Orange food coloring
- Black decorating gel or black icing for faces
- Green decorating gel or icing for pumpkin leaves
- Miniature chocolate or brown candy pieces for pumpkin stems
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe should take about 15 minutes for preparation and about 30 minutes to cool and set. Just a bit of waiting, and you’ll have adorable treats ready to share!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Melt the Butter:
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over low heat. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
2. Add Marshmallows:
Once the butter is melted, add the mini marshmallows. Stir until they are completely melted and have a smooth texture. This is where the magic begins!
3. Color the Mixture:
Add a few drops of orange food coloring to the melted marshmallow mixture. Stir well until it’s a nice, vibrant orange color. Think pumpkin vibes!
4. Mix in Rice Krispies:
Remove the pot from the heat and quickly add the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir gently but quickly to ensure all the cereal is coated in the marshmallow mixture.
5. Cool Slightly:
Let the mixture cool for about 5-10 minutes. This will make it easier to handle without burning your fingers.
6. Shape the Treats:
Butter your hands lightly to prevent sticking, then take small handfuls of the mixture and shape them into little pumpkin-like cubes or balls. Place them onto wax paper or a greased surface.
7. Set Aside:
Allow the shaped treats to set for about 20 minutes until firm. This is the perfect time to clean up your kitchen!
8. Decorate the Faces:
Once they’re set, grab your black decorating gel and carefully draw little eyes, noses, and mouths on each pumpkin to give them their jack o’ lantern faces.
9. Add Leaves:
Use the green decorating gel to pipe little leaves on top of each pumpkin to complete their look.
10. Finish with Stems:
To finish, place a miniature chocolate or brown candy piece in the center of each pumpkin as a cute little stem.
11. Final Cooling:
Let the treats fully cool and set before serving. Then, enjoy your delightful Jack o’ Lantern Rice Krispie Treats with family and friends!
These festive, delicious treats are sure to bring smiles and festive spirit to any Halloween gathering! 🎃
Can I Use Regular Marshmallows Instead of Mini Marshmallows?
Absolutely! If you have regular marshmallows on hand, just cut them into smaller pieces before adding them to the melted butter. They’ll still melt down beautifully!
How Can I Store Leftover Rice Krispie Treats?
Store any leftover treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they start to harden, you can microwave them for just a few seconds to soften them up again.
Can I Make These Treats Vegan?
Yes! You can use vegan butter and dairy-free marshmallows for this recipe. Make sure to check the ingredients on the food coloring and decorations, as some may contain animal products.
What If My Mixture Is Too Sticky When Shaping?
If the mixture is too sticky, let it cool a bit longer before shaping. You can also lightly butter your hands again to help with the sticking! A little patience goes a long way.