Description
These Easter Rice Krispie Bars are a festive and colorful treat perfect for spring celebrations. Made by melting butter and marshmallows, then mixing in crispy rice cereal and pastel M&M’s or candy-coated chocolate eggs, these bars are easy to prepare and delightfully sweet. Optionally drizzled with white chocolate and topped with Easter-themed sprinkles, they make a fun, visually appealing snack for Easter gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Mix-Ins and Toppings
- 1 cup pastel-colored M&M’s or candy-coated chocolate eggs
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling)
- 1/4 cup Easter-themed sprinkles
Instructions
- Melt Butter: In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the unsalted butter slowly to avoid burning. Stir occasionally to ensure even melting.
- Add Marshmallows: Add the mini marshmallows to the melted butter and stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth with no lumps.
- Stir in Vanilla: Remove the pot from heat and stir in vanilla extract if using. This adds a subtle flavor depth to the bars.
- Mix in Rice Krispies: Fold in the Rice Krispies cereal gently, stirring until all the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Add Candy Mix-Ins: Gently fold in the pastel M&M’s or candy-coated chocolate eggs, being careful not to crush them or cause them to melt.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easy.
- Transfer and Press: Pour the mixture into the prepared dish. Using a spatula or greased hands, press the mixture down evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Drizzle White Chocolate: Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the top of the pressed bars for an elegant and festive touch.
- Add Sprinkles: Sprinkle Easter-themed sprinkles evenly over the white chocolate drizzle to enhance visual appeal and add extra sweetness.
- Set and Serve: Let the bars set at room temperature for about 30 minutes until firm. Once set, slice into 12 bars and serve for a delightful Easter treat.
Notes
- You can substitute candy-coated chocolate eggs with any pastel-colored candy or skip them entirely for a simpler version.
- Make sure to press the mixture firmly to help the bars hold their shape when cut.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- To speed up setting, refrigerate the bars for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
- For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter and non-dairy white chocolate chips.
