Mini M&M Rice Krispie

This Mini M&M Rice Krispie Treats recipe is the ultimate crowdpleaser, combining the classic gooey texture of marshmallow cereal treats with the colorful crunch of mini M&Ms. Perfect for a quick dessert or a fun snack, these treats bring a vibrant twist to a nostalgic favorite. They are nobake and straightforward, making them ideal for bakers of all skill levels or for involving kids in the kitchen.

I first made these during a busy holiday season and they became an instant favorite at every gathering. Now, theyre a goto for birthdays and school events because everyone loves that colorful pop of M&Ms with every bite.

Ingredients

• Mini marshmallows: a 10ounce bag is perfect for the gooey, chewy texture choose fresh marshmallows that puff up easily when melted
• Salted butter: adds a rich flavor base and helps with smooth melting
• Pure vanilla extract: enhances the overall sweetness and adds a warm aromatic note
• Crispy rice cereal: provides the signature crunch and light texture look for a glutenfree brand if needed
• Mini M&M candies: the star ingredient for chocolate bursts and fun color mini size works best to evenly distribute without overpowering each bite

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat until fully melted and smooth. This gentle warming releases the butters richness so it coats the marshmallows evenly.

Melt the Marshmallows:

Add the mini marshmallows to the melted butter. Stir constantly and cook on medium heat or microwave in 15second bursts until the marshmallows puff up but still hold some shape. This step is crucial for that perfect sticky texture. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract until it becomes a smooth, creamy mixture.

Coat the Cereal:

Pour the crispy rice cereal into a large bowl. Pour the warm marshmallow mixture over the cereal and gently fold using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon ensuring every grain is coated without crushing the cereal.

Add the M&Ms:

Once the cereal is fully coated stir in most of the mini M&Ms reserving a handful to sprinkle on top. This adds extra chocolatey pops and a colorful finish.

Press into the Pan:

Lightly grease an 8inch square baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Transfer the cereal mixture to the pan and press firmly but gently to create an even layer. Avoid compacting too hard which can make the treats tough. Sprinkle the reserved M&Ms on the top and press down lightly to help them stick.

Let it Set:

Allow to cool at room temperature until the treats firm up about 30 minutes. For fussfree cutting cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes before slicing into squares.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how the mini M&Ms create tiny pockets of chocolate in every bite. It always reminds me of cozy family movie nights when everyone grabs a handful fresh out of the pan. The colorful bursts add such happy energy to the simple treat that kids and adults alike look forward to.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need a dairyfree alternative swap salted butter for coconut oil or a plantbased margarine. Keep in mind this may slightly alter flavor and texture but will still give a nice chewiness. For a glutenfree treat double check your crispy rice cereal brand is certified glutenfree to avoid crosscontamination. You can switch mini M&Ms for peanut butter or caramel candies to customize flavor profiles or dietary preferences just be mindful about melting points during mixing.

Storage Tips

Rice Krispie treats are best enjoyed fresh but will keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To avoid them getting sticky or hard make sure they cool fully before storing. For longer storage wrap individually or in layers with parchment or plastic wrap then freeze. Thaw at room temperature before serving to maintain that perfect chewy texture.

Serving Suggestions

These treats are fantastic on their own but also pair beautifully with cold milk or a creamy hot chocolate for extra indulgence. For parties serve them cut into mini squares and skewered with a fun pick for easy grabbing. They work great alongside fresh fruit for a sweet and fresh contrast or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a nostalgic dessert plate.

These Mini M&M Rice Krispie Treats are quick to make and perfect for parties and snacks. Enjoy them fresh or freeze for later.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What type of marshmallows work best?

Mini marshmallows melt evenly and create the ideal gooey binding for the crispy cereal.

→ Can I use regular M&Ms instead of mini?

Yes, regular M&Ms work well, though mini ones offer a better chocolate-to-candy-shell ratio for texture balance.

→ How do I keep the treats soft and gooey?

Avoid over-heating the marshmallow mixture to retain soft, puffed marshmallow pieces within the bars.

→ Are there holiday variations?

Substitute red and green mini M&Ms to create festive, holiday-themed snacks perfect for seasonal gatherings.

→ How should the treats be stored?

Store at room temperature in an airtight container up to 3 days, or freeze well wrapped for up to 2 months.

→ Can I add cocoa powder for extra flavor?

Adding a quarter cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the melted marshmallow mix gives a rich chocolate twist.