Candy Corn Rice Krispies Treats – colorful Halloween rice krispies
Alright, I’ve got a little confession: these Candy Corn Rice Krispies Treats totally bring me back to sitting around the kitchen table at Halloween, snacking on all things sweet and colorful. There’s something about that mix of the buttery marshmallow goo and crispy cereal that’s just pure childhood magic. And when you add those classic candy corn colors—bright orange, yellow, and white—it’s like catching a little Halloween sunshine in every bite. Trust me, these treats are as fun to make as they are to eat, and they’re perfect if you want your Halloween spread to be a little extra festive without any fuss.
Quick Facts
- Yield: Serves 12
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Gel food coloring: orange, yellow
How I Make It
Step 1:
First, melt the butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth. This is your sweet, gooey glue that brings everything together!
Step 2:
Divide the melted marshmallow mixture into three equal parts in separate bowls. Quickly stir a few drops of orange gel food coloring into one bowl, yellow into another, and leave the last one plain (white). Work fast so the marshmallow doesn’t harden.
Step 3:
Now, gently fold in 2 cups of Rice Krispies cereal into each colored mixture, folding carefully so you don’t crush the cereal.
Step 4:
Grab a greased 9×13-inch pan. Start layering: press down the orange mix evenly into the bottom, then carefully add the yellow layer on top, and finish with the white layer. Use a piece of wax paper to gently press each layer without squishing.
Step 5:
Let the layered treats cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes to firm up and hold their shape, then slice into squares. The layers should stay distinct and vibrant, just like candy corn!
Step 6:
Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container to keep them soft and chewy.
Variations & Tips
- If your marshmallows stiffen too quickly, briefly warm them again for easier mixing.
- Use gluten-free crispy rice cereal to make this treat gluten-free.
- Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to the marshmallow mix for a subtle fall twist.
- For extra color pop, swirl food coloring gently instead of fully mixing for a marbled effect.
- Don’t skip greasing your pan with butter or non-stick spray; it makes removing the treats a breeze.
How I Like to Serve It
These Candy Corn Rice Krispies Treats are perfect party fingers for Halloween get-togethers, brightening up dessert tables alongside roasted pumpkin seeds or caramel apples. They also make super cute, hand-held snacks for kids coming home from trick-or-treating, or a fun classroom party dessert that always gets compliments. Just the right amount of sweet, chewy, and colorful!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft.
- If they get a bit hard, microwave a square for 5–7 seconds to soften before serving.
Closing: This recipe always works because it’s simple, fun, and that perfect combo of classic candy corn colors with the nostalgic crunch of Rice Krispies—Halloween happiness in every bite!