Fruity Pebbles Marshmallow Treats

These Fruity Pebbles marshmallow treats bring a burst of color and playful flavor to any occasion. Perfect for quick gatherings, birthday parties, or school bake sales, they combine the nostalgic crunch of fruity cereal with the sweet, gooey comfort of melted marshmallows. They always remind me of lively childhood celebrations when a brightly colored platter like this guaranteed smiles all around.

I first whipped these up for an impromptu picnic and was amazed at how everyone, young and old, kept going back for more. They are such a cheerful treat that adds instant fun to any event.

Ingredients

• 8 cups Fruity Pebbles breakfast cereal: the star ingredient that provides bright color and crisp texture choose freshly sealed boxes for best crunch
• 1 bag (10 ounces) mini marshmallows: melt smoothly and create that perfect chewy bind fresher marshmallows melt better
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter: adds richness without overpowering sweetness unsalted butter helps control saltiness
• Half a teaspoon pure vanilla extract: brings warmth and deepens sweetness look for pure vanilla to avoid artificial flavors
• Half a teaspoon fine sea salt: balances the sweetness and enhances flavor depth fine salt blends easily
• Cooking oil spray or butter: to coat your pan and prevent sticking for easy removal

Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Coat a 9 by 13inch baking pan thoroughly with your choice of nonstick cooking spray or butter. This step ensures the treats won’t stick and will come out cleanly after setting.

Melt Butter:

In a large pot set over low heat, melt the unsalted butter slowly. Swirl the pot occasionally to encourage even melting and to prevent the butter from browning which can affect flavor.

Add Marshmallows:

Add the mini marshmallows to the melted butter and stir constantly with a silicone spatula. Keep stirring until the marshmallows have melted completely into a smooth, gooey mixture. Be careful not to let the mixture scorch, as burnt marshmallows smell bitter and ruin the texture.

Incorporate Vanilla and Salt:

Stir in the vanilla extract and fine sea salt thoroughly. These ingredients enhance flavor by balancing out the sweetness and adding subtle depth.

Combine with Cereal:

Take the pot off the heat immediately. Add the Fruity Pebbles cereal to the marshmallow mixture and fold gently but quickly to coat every piece with the gooey marshmallow. Avoid overmixing to keep the cereal colors vibrant and crisp.

Press into the Pan:

Transfer the coated cereal mixture to your prepared pan. Using a buttered spatula, a piece of wax paper, or lightly greased hands, press it evenly into the pan. Pressing firmly enough to hold together is important, but avoid packing it too tight so the treats stay soft and chewy.

Cool and Cut:

Let the mixture cool at room temperature for at least one hour. Once set, use a sharp knife or a lightly greased bench scraper to cut into squares or bars. Greasing your cutting tool prevents sticking and gives clean edges.

I love the way the Fruity Pebbles cereal creates a nostalgic crunch that takes me back to childhood mornings. One Easter, I watched a group of cousins race around the yard just to rush in and grab a brightly colored treat like these. It’s those vivid memories that make this recipe so dear to me.

Storage Tips

Keep the treats in an airtight container at room temperature so they stay soft and chewy. Avoid storing in the fridge where they can turn too firm. If you want to store longer than three days, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature and enjoy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Coconut oil can replace butter for a dairy free alternative. It will add a subtle nuttiness and set the treats slightly firmer. Marshmallow fluff can replace mini marshmallows to create a softer, extra gooey texture, though the bars may be less structured. Mix Fruity Pebbles with other fruit flavored crisp rice cereals for texture and color variety, creating a unique flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions

Try drizzling melted white chocolate over cooled bars for a more decadent presentation. Sprinkle colorful toppings like nonpareils or edible glitter for festive occasions. Pair these with vanilla ice cream or a tart citrus sorbet to add contrast and highlight the fruity flavors.

These colorful treats come together quickly and are a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Share them at your next gathering and enjoy the smiles.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Why are my bars too hard or dense?

Pressing the mixture too firmly or overheating marshmallows can cause density. Gently press and avoid overheating for softer texture.

→ Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini?

Yes, chopping regular marshmallows into smaller pieces helps them melt more quickly and evenly.

→ Do these treats need refrigeration?

No refrigeration needed. Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain softness.

→ How to prevent sticking when cutting bars?

Lightly grease your knife or bench scraper before cutting, or use parchment paper to lift the bars cleanly.

→ Can I substitute butter with other fats?

Coconut oil works well as a dairy-free substitute, adding a subtle tropical flavor and firmer texture.