As a true chocolate aficionado, few treats satisfy my sweet cravings quite like these incredible homemade chocolate Rice Krispie treats. Crafted with classic Rice Krispies cereal, gooey marshmallows, rich butter, and decadent chocolate chips, these easy no-bake bars deliver a delightful combination of chewy and crunchy textures, bursting with chocolatey goodness in every bite. They are my go-to when I desire a quick, chocolate-packed dessert without the fuss of turning on the oven, and they disappear in moments whenever I make them for my family and friends.

The Ultimate Guide to Easy Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats: Your New Favorite No-Bake Dessert

Prepare to fall in love with these simple yet sensational chocolate chip Rice Krispie treats! They’re an irresistible twist on the beloved classic, packed with ample chocolate, luscious melted marshmallows, and the satisfying crunch of Rice Krispies cereal. In my opinion, this chocolate-infused version elevates the experience to a whole new level, making them even better than the original.

My foolproof recipe requires just four essential ingredients and comes together in less than an hour, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion, from last-minute cravings to casual gatherings. Instead of using cocoa-flavored Rice Krispies, I opt for semi-sweet chocolate chips. I find that the melting chocolate chips blend seamlessly with the original cereal, creating a richer, more profound chocolate flavor and a beautifully marbled texture. However, if you’re seeking an intense, all-out chocolate explosion, feel free to substitute with cocoa Rice Krispies for an even deeper flavor profile.

Why You’ll Adore These Decadent No-Bake Chocolate Bars

There are countless reasons why these chocolate Rice Krispie treats have become a household favorite. Firstly, their simplicity is unmatched. Requiring only minimal ingredients and no oven, they are ideal for beginner bakers or anyone looking for a quick, hassle-free dessert solution. Secondly, the texture is simply divine: a perfect balance of crispy cereal, soft, chewy marshmallow, and pockets of melted chocolate that create a truly satisfying mouthfeel.

Beyond their ease and texture, these treats are incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different types of chocolate, add various mix-ins, or even decorate them for holidays. They are a fantastic crowd-pleaser, appealing to both children and adults, and they travel well, making them perfect for potlucks, parties, or lunchbox surprises. Plus, the sheer joy of creating a delicious dessert from scratch in minutes is a reward in itself!

Elevate Your Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats: Pro Tips and Variations

While this recipe is fantastic as is, a few simple tweaks can elevate your chocolate Rice Krispie treats to gourmet status. If you have an extra few minutes, I highly recommend browning the butter at the very beginning of the process. This adds a wonderfully nutty, caramelized depth of flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. To brown butter, simply melt it in your saucepan and continue cooking over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it turns a rich golden-brown and smells fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!

For those who love a deeper, more sophisticated chocolate flavor, consider sprinkling a pinch of espresso powder into the marshmallow and butter mixture as it melts. Espresso acts as a natural flavor enhancer for chocolate, intensifying its richness without adding a coffee taste. You can also experiment with different chocolate varieties – dark chocolate for a less sweet, more intense flavor, or milk chocolate for an extra creamy, classic profile. White chocolate chips can be swirled in at the end for a beautiful contrast and added sweetness.

Don’t stop there! These treats are a blank canvas for creativity. Consider folding in a handful of mini chocolate candies, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt to balance the sweetness. A drizzle of melted white chocolate or a scattering of colorful sprinkles on top before they set can add a festive touch.

Decadent Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats

These chocolate Rice Krispie treats are a delightful combination of chewy, crunchy, and richly chocolatey. With just 4 simple ingredients and absolutely no baking required, they come together in under an hour for a perfect anytime dessert that everyone will adore!

Rated 4.78 out of 5 by 9 users

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Set Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Yields: 12 servings

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cups miniature marshmallows
• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Optional: Substitute marshmallows with 7 ounces of marshmallow fluff spread. For a gluten-free version, ensure your Rice Krispies cereal is certified gluten-free.

Equipment

• Large saucepan
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Rubber spatula
• Wax paper (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
2. Once the butter is fully melted, add 4 cups of miniature marshmallows to the saucepan.
3. Continue stirring the marshmallows over low heat until they are completely melted and smoothly combined with the butter. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
4. Pour in 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal. Gently fold the cereal into the melted marshmallow mixture until every piece is evenly coated.
5. Add 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips to the mixture. Continue stirring until the chocolate chips have fully melted and are thoroughly incorporated, transforming the entire mixture into a rich chocolate-brown.
6. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with wax paper or greasing it lightly with butter or cooking spray.
7. Using a rubber spatula lightly coated with cooking spray or butter (to prevent sticking), transfer the chocolate Rice Krispies mixture into the prepared pan.
8. Press the mixture evenly into the pan. You can use the back of the greased spatula or place a piece of wax paper over the treats to press them down firmly. For an extra touch, sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top while the mixture is still warm.
9. Allow the treats to cool and set completely at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. Once set, cut them into squares and serve your delicious chocolate Rice Krispie treats!

Recipe Notes & Pro Tips

• Gluten-Free Option: While traditional Rice Krispies cereal contains malt, which may contain gluten, many brands now offer certified gluten-free rice cereal. Always check the label to ensure your ingredients are suitable if you’re aiming for a gluten-free treat.
• Continuous Stirring is Key: When melting butter and marshmallows, stir constantly over low heat. This technique is crucial to prevent the marshmallows from sticking to the pan, clumping, or burning, ensuring a perfectly smooth and uniform mixture for your treats.
• For Extra Gooey Treats: If you prefer your treats extra soft and chewy, substitute the miniature marshmallows with a 7-ounce tub of marshmallow fluff or creme. This creates an even gooier and more decadent texture that melts in your mouth.
• Combatting Stickiness: Sometimes, excessive marshmallow or butter, or even the use of marshmallow fluff, can make your treats overly sticky. A simple remedy is to gently add a bit more Rice Krispies cereal to the mixture until you achieve your desired, perfectly manageable consistency.
• Avoiding Hard Treats: Hard Rice Krispie treats are often a result of overcooked marshmallows or pressing the mixture too tightly into the pan. To avoid this, keep the heat low and watch the marshmallows carefully as they melt. When pressing the mixture into the pan, be gentle but firm, avoiding overly compacting the cereal.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition Facts

Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Amount Per Serving (1 bar)

Calories 218 Calories from Fat 81

% Daily Value*

Fat 9g 14%

Saturated Fat 5g 31%

Trans Fat 1g

Polyunsaturated Fat 1g

Monounsaturated Fat 3g

Cholesterol 8mg 3%

Sodium 89mg 4%

Potassium 104mg 3%

Carbohydrates 33g 11%

Fiber 1g 4%

Sugar 16g 18%

Protein 2g 4%

Vitamin A 1026IU 21%

Vitamin C 9mg 11%

Calcium 11mg 1%

Iron 5mg 28%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Author: Becky Hardin

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Step-by-Step Visual Guide to Making Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats

Follow these easy, photo-guided steps to create your perfect batch of homemade chocolate Rice Krispie treats. Each stage is designed for simplicity and delicious results!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients. Begin by collecting all four essential ingredients: unsalted butter, miniature marshmallows, Rice Krispies cereal, and semisweet chocolate chips. Having everything ready streamlines the no-bake process.

Step 2: Add the Marshmallows. In a large saucepan set over low heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, stirring continuously until completely liquid. Then, add 4 cups of miniature marshmallows to the melted butter.

Step 3: Melt the Marshmallows. Continue stirring the marshmallow mixture over low heat. It’s crucial to stir constantly until the marshmallows are entirely melted and smoothly combined with the butter, forming a silky, homogeneous base. Once smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat immediately.

Step 4: Stir in the Cereal. Now, add 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal to the melted marshmallow mixture. Gently fold the cereal into the gooey base using a spatula, ensuring every single grain is evenly coated. This guarantees a consistent texture throughout your treats.

Step 5: Add the Chocolate. Next, stir in 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips. Continue stirring until the chocolate chips have completely melted into the warm cereal and marshmallow mixture. This step transforms the entire batch into a rich, luscious chocolate-brown color and infuses it with deep chocolate flavor.

Step 6: Pour into a Pan. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with wax paper or lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. Transfer the warm chocolate Rice Krispies mixture into the prepared pan. Using a rubber spatula that has been lightly coated with cooking spray or butter, spread the mixture evenly into the pan. For an extra visual appeal and chocolate boost, you can sprinkle a few more chocolate chips on top before it sets.

Step 7: Set and Slice. Allow the treats to cool completely and the marshmallows to fully set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This waiting period is essential for achieving that perfect chewy-crispy texture. Once firm, cut them into squares of your desired size, and then these delectable chocolate Rice Krispie treats are ready to be served and enjoyed!

Storage and Freshness: How to Keep Your Chocolate Cereal Treats Perfect

Proper storage is key to maintaining the delightful chewiness and crunch of your chocolate Rice Krispie treats. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To extend their freshness further, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If you’re planning to enjoy them over a longer period, these treats freeze beautifully for up to three months.

When refrigerating or freezing, I highly recommend wrapping individual treats or small stacks in plastic wrap or wax paper before placing them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe resealable bag. This extra layer of protection prevents them from drying out, absorbing freezer odors, or developing freezer burn. When you’re ready for a frozen treat, simply let it thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours. They will taste just as fresh and delicious as the day you made them!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats

Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying these popular no-bake bars:

• Can I use different types of chocolate? Absolutely! While semi-sweet chocolate chips are recommended for a balanced flavor, you can experiment with milk chocolate chips for a sweeter treat or dark chocolate chips for a more intense cocoa experience. White chocolate chips can also be added for contrast or swirled on top.
• How can I make these treats gluten-free? The primary ingredient to check for gluten is Rice Krispies cereal. Traditional Rice Krispies contain malt, which is derived from barley and contains gluten. However, many brands now offer certified gluten-free rice cereals. Always look for packaging explicitly labeled “gluten-free” to ensure your treats are safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Why are my chocolate Rice Krispie treats hard? Hard treats are typically caused by overcooking the marshmallows or pressing the mixture too firmly into the pan. Overcooked marshmallows become brittle when cooled. To prevent this, melt the marshmallows over low heat and remove them from the stove as soon as they are smooth. When pressing the mixture into the pan, be gentle but firm; avoid compacting it too much.
• Can I add other mix-ins to the recipe? Yes, these treats are very adaptable! Consider adding miniature M&M’s, chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts), sprinkles, or a swirl of peanut butter (see our Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats recipe below!). Just be sure to add mix-ins after the cereal is coated and before pressing into the pan.
• How long do chocolate Rice Krispie treats last? When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they typically stay fresh for up to one week. If refrigerated, they can last up to two weeks. For longer storage, freezing them for up to three months is an excellent option, just ensure they are well-wrapped.