Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats
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If you’re a fan of holiday celebrations like I am, you’ll understand the excitement of decking everything out in red, white, and blue for a true all-American vibe. Why not extend that festive spirit to your snacks as well? These super easy Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats are not only fun to make but are guaranteed crowd-pleasers at your next gathering!
I make these treats every year, usually for Memorial Day and the 4th of July; they come together so easily that you don’t even have to turn the oven on, so they’re stress-free. If you’re not celebrating at home, they travel well and don’t need refrigeration, so pop them in your favorite container and take them to your gathering or picnic. Plus, making them is a blast, especially with kids who love jumping in to help.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll need all the ingredients in the photograph below.
How to Make Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats with Step-By-Step Instructions
Scroll down for the full recipe card containing a full printable recipe and measurements in both US customary and metric units.
Prepare the Marshmallow Mixture
Divide the marshmallows and butter between two large microwave-safe bowls. Microwave one bowl until the marshmallows and butter are completely melted, stirring to combine everything smoothly. Repeat this process with the second bowl.
Tip: Check that your marshmallows are vegetarian-friendly, as some brands use gelatin.
Color and Mix
Add red food coloring to one bowl of the melted marshmallow mixture and blue to the other. Stir each until the color is uniform and no white streaks remain.
SERIOUSLY GOOD
DESSERTS!
Dessert First is a collection of 61 RECIPES to show you that you can make beautiful, impressive desserts right in your own kitchen, no matter your skill level.
Immediate eBook download. No physical book available.
Includes ad-free recipes like:
∙ Lemon Pound Cake
∙ Key Lime Bars
∙ Boston Cream Pie
∙ No-Bake Chocolate Lasagna
∙ Raspberry Cheesecake
...and much more!
Mix in half the cereal to the red mixture and the other half to the blue mixture. Fold gently to ensure each piece of cereal is evenly coated.
Shape and Set
Prepare two 9×13-inch baking dishes by spraying them with non-stick cooking spray. Transfer the red mixture to one dish and the blue mixture to the other.
Spray your hands with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then press the mixtures evenly into the dishes. Sprinkle patriotic sprinkles over the top to enhance the festive look. Allow the Rice Krispie treats to set for about 40 minutes, ensuring they hold their shape when cut.
Tip: If your mixture is too sticky when pressing into the pans, lightly dampen your hands with water or use more cooking spray.
Create Star-Shaped Treats
Using a 3-inch star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out stars from each colored sheet of treats. Place a small amount of frosting on the unsprinkled side of a red star, then top it with the unsprinkled side of a blue star to form a sandwich. This step adds a creative twist and makes the treats even more fun.
Repeat with the remaining stars to complete your batch of red, white, and blue star-shaped treats. Serve the festive treats and enjoy!
Ingredients
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter sliced
- 12 cups mini marshmallows
- 8 cups rice cereal
- 16 ounces white frosting
- Few drops of blue and red food coloring divided
- Sprinkles (red,blue,white)
Instructions
- Place half the marshmallows and butter in one large microwave-safe bowl, and the remaining marshmallows and butter in another bowl.12 cups mini marshmallows, 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Microwave one bowl for 1-2 minutes, or until the marshmallows and butter are melted. Stir to combine. Repeat with the other bowl.
- Add red food coloring to one melted marshmallow mixture and blue to the other. Mix until desired colors are achieved, with no white streaks remaining.Few drops of blue and red food coloring
- Add half the cereal to the red mixture and the other half to the blue mixture. Fold gently until the cereal is fully coated.8 cups rice cereal
- Spray two 9×13-inch baking dishes with non-stick cooking spray. Transfer the red mixture to one dish and the blue mixture to the other. Spray your hands with cooking spray and press the mixtures evenly into the dishes. Sprinkle with patriotic sprinkles.Sprinkles (red,blue,white)
- Let the Rice Krispie treats set for 40 minutes.
- Using a 3-inch star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out stars from each color.
- Place a small amount of frosting on the unsprinkled side of a red star and top with the unsprinkled side of a blue star to create a sandwich.16 ounces white frosting
- Repeat with the remaining stars to assemble red, white, and blue star-shaped treats. Serve and enjoy your Rice Krispie treats!
Notes
- Vegetarian Considerations: Ensure the marshmallows you choose are vegetarian-friendly, as traditional marshmallows contain gelatin. Several brands use plant-based gelatin alternatives, so you have options.
- Texture Secrets: For the crispiest treats, don’t press the mixture too firmly into the pan. A lighter touch keeps them airy and crunchy.
- Storage Know-How: To maintain their texture, store your treats in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration, as it can make them soggy.
- Preventing Stickiness: If you find the mixture too sticky when pressing it into your molds or pans, lightly oil your hands or use a piece of wax paper to press down. This helps form the treats without the mess.
- Flavor Add-ins: Feel free to experiment with adding flavors to your treats. A splash of vanilla or almond extract can add a new layer of taste to your festive treats.
- Make-Ahead Strategy: These treats are perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare them a day before your event to save time and reduce stress on the day.
Nutrition
SERIOUSLY GOOD
DESSERTS!
Dessert First is a collection of 61 RECIPES to show you that you can make beautiful, impressive desserts right in your own kitchen, no matter your skill level.
Immediate eBook download. No physical book available.
Includes ad-free recipes like:
∙ Lemon Pound Cake
∙ Key Lime Bars
∙ Boston Cream Pie
∙ No-Bake Chocolate Lasagna
∙ Raspberry Cheesecake
...and much more!
Recipe Notes and Expert Tips
- Vegetarian Considerations: Ensure the marshmallows you choose are vegetarian-friendly, as traditional marshmallows contain gelatin. Several brands use plant-based gelatin alternatives, so you have options.
- Texture Secrets: For the crispiest treats, don’t press the mixture too firmly into the pan. A lighter touch keeps them airy and crunchy.
- Storage Know-How: To maintain their texture, store your treats in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration, as it can make them soggy.
- Preventing Stickiness: If you find the mixture too sticky when pressing it into your molds or pans, lightly oil your hands or use a piece of wax paper to press down. This helps form the treats without the mess.
- Flavor Add-ins: Feel free to experiment with adding flavors to your treats. A splash of vanilla or almond extract can add a new layer of taste to your festive treats.
- Make-Ahead Strategy: These treats are perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare them a day before your event to save time and reduce stress on the day.
How to store Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats
Keeping your Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats as fresh and crisp as when you first made them is easy if you follow my storage tips.
Simply put them into an airtight container, placing wax paper between layers to keep them from sticking together and to preserve their shapes and colors. Store the container in a cool, dry spot out of direct sunlight. This simple step ensures that your treats stay crunchy and ready to enjoy, extending the festive cheer for up to a week.
More Easy Recipes for You to Try at Home
If you’re looking for more party recipes, then take a look at some of my favorites.
