If you have a soft spot for nostalgic treats with a cozy twist, you are going to absolutely adore this Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe. Imagine the classic crispy, gooey rice krispie base you love, but enriched with the luscious flavors of creamy milk chocolate and rich hot chocolate mix, sending warmth and joy with every bite. These treats bring that familiar chewy crunch, combined with melt-in-your-mouth marshmallows, all topped off with delightful sprinkles and festive add-ons that make every square feel like a hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re making these for a chilly afternoon snack or a festive gathering, this recipe is a quick, simple way to spread happiness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is both simple and delightful. Each component plays a crucial role in building the perfect flavor, texture, and even appearance, ensuring your treats are irresistible.
- ½ cup butter: Provides that rich, creamy base for melting and binding everything together.
- ½ cup milk chocolate chips: Adds smooth chocolatey goodness and a silky melt throughout the mix.
- ½ cup hot chocolate mix: The secret ingredient that infuses classic rice krispie treats with a luscious, cozy flavor.
- 1 bag marshmallows (10 ounces, about 40 large): The gooey magic that binds the cereal and chocolate into one irresistible treat.
- 6 cups rice krispies cereal: Provides that iconic crunch and lightness to the final texture.
- â…“ cup mini marshmallows: Adds extra gooey pockets and fun texture variation inside the treats.
- Chocolate sprinkles: For a fun, textured finish and a splash of extra chocolate flavor on top.
- Mini marshmallows: Perfect for decorating and adding a fluffy, festive touch.
- Mini chocolate chips: For a little surprise chocolate burst on the surface.
- Dehydrated marshmallows: Adds a whimsical, frosty look and light crunch.
- Crushed candy canes: Optional, but highly recommended for a refreshing peppermint kick and festive flair.
How to Make Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by greasing a 9″x13″ baking tray with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. This will make sure your beautifully crafted treats release easily once set, helping you keep those perfect square shapes intact.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate
Place a large pot on low heat and melt the ½ cup of butter gently. Once melted, add the ½ cup of milk chocolate chips and stir until the chocolate is completely melted and everything is silky smooth. This combination sets a luscious foundation for your treats.
Step 3: Incorporate the Hot Chocolate Mix
Stir in the ½ cup of hot chocolate mix until fully combined. This step transforms the flavor profile, layering in that familiar, cozy chocolate taste that makes this Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe stand out.
Step 4: Melt the Marshmallows
Add the entire bag of marshmallows to the pot. Keep stirring continuously over low heat until they have melted completely and blended perfectly with the chocolate mixture. This gooey, sticky texture is what will glue your treats together.
Step 5: Mix in the Rice Krispies
Remove the pot from the heat and quickly pour in the 6 cups of rice krispies cereal. Gently fold and mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until every piece is evenly coated. A quick tip is to spray your spatula with cooking spray to avoid sticking and make mixing easier.
Step 6: Add Mini Marshmallows
Fold in the â…“ cup of mini marshmallows gently. Some of these will slightly melt, adding gooiness, while others retain their shape for an enjoyable texture mix throughout the treats.
Step 7: Shape and Decorate
Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer. Press it down just enough to hold its shape but not too much to lose that fluffy texture. Now the fun part: decorate the top with mini marshmallows, chocolate sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, dehydrated marshmallows, crushed candy canes, or any candies you love. Press gently so the toppings stick in place.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the treats to cool and set for about 30 minutes before slicing into 18 or 24 squares. This resting time is key to getting that perfect balance of chew and crunch.
How to Serve Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Garnishes
Serving these Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats with extra mini marshmallows, a dusting of cocoa powder, or some fluffy whipped cream on the side elevates the cozy factor. Don’t forget a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for a festive crunch that guests will adore.
Side Dishes
This treat pairs beautifully with a warm cup of hot cocoa or flavored coffee for a scrumptious afternoon snack. For parties, try serving alongside fruit skewers, or light finger sandwiches to balance richness with freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, cut the treats into fun shapes with cookie cutters for themed parties or stack them like mini towers tied with festive ribbons. Putting them in clear jars layered with marshmallows and chocolate chips also makes a charming gift idea that shows off all the textures inside.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can happily store your Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them chewy and fresh while preventing them from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen treats keep well for up to one month and thaw quickly at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
Generally, these treats are best served at room temperature, but if you prefer a warm version, pop them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. The chocolate and marshmallows will soften up and enhance that gooey, melty sensation wonderfully.
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give your Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe a richer, slightly more bitter edge that some find deliciously sophisticated. Just be mindful it changes the overall flavor balance.
What if I don’t have hot chocolate mix on hand?
You can substitute with cocoa powder and a bit of sugar, but hot chocolate mix includes extras that enhance sweetness and creaminess. Using a good-quality hot chocolate mix will keep the recipe tasting just right.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just make sure your rice krispies cereal is gluten-free, as some brands contain malt flavoring with gluten. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an accessible treat for many diets.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit?
Definitely! Chopped nuts like almonds or pecans add a lovely crunch, while dried cranberries or cherries give a tart contrast to the sweet chocolate. Just fold them in with the rice krispies for a customized texture and flavor boost.
How do I keep the treats from getting too hard?
It’s all about not over-pressing the mixture into the pan and storing them in airtight containers. Over-compressing removes air pockets, making treats denser and harder. Keeping them sealed prevents drying out, which helps maintain that perfect chewy bite.
Final Thoughts
Making the Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm, chocolaty blanket that’s both comforting and fun to share. It’s quick, easy, and versatile enough to suit any occasion or craving. Don’t wait to whip up a batch to bring some extra sweetness and smiles to your day — these treats have a way of making any moment just a little more special.
Print
Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats combine the nostalgic crunch of classic rice krispies with the rich, creamy flavors of hot chocolate and marshmallows. Enhanced with mini marshmallows and a delightful assortment of festive toppings like chocolate sprinkles and crushed candy canes, these treats are perfect for cozy gatherings or a sweet seasonal snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ½ cup butter
- ½ cup milk chocolate chips
- ½ cup hot chocolate mix
- 1 bag marshmallows (10 ounces, approximately 40 large marshmallows)
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- â…“ cup mini marshmallows
Toppings
- Chocolate sprinkles
- Mini marshmallows
- Mini chocolate chips
- Dehydrated marshmallows
- Crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Tray: Grease a 9″x13″ baking tray with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the treats.
- Melt Butter: Place a large pot on low heat and melt the ½ cup butter slowly to avoid burning.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in the ½ cup milk chocolate chips into the melted butter, continuing to stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Incorporate Hot Chocolate Mix: Add the ½ cup hot chocolate mix to the melted chocolate and butter mixture, stirring until completely combined for that rich flavor.
- Melt Marshmallows: Add the entire bag of marshmallows to the pot, stirring constantly until the marshmallows are fully melted and integrated into a smooth, cohesive mixture.
- Mix in Rice Krispies: Remove the pot from heat and pour in the 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal. Gently fold the cereal into the marshmallow mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon until evenly coated. Spraying the spatula with cooking spray helps prevent sticking.
- Add Mini Marshmallows: Gently stir in â…“ cup of mini marshmallows. Some will melt slightly while others stay whole, adding textural variety to the treats.
- Spread in Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Press just enough to create a uniform layer without compacting too firmly.
- Decorate: Top with your choice of mini marshmallows, chocolate sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, dehydrated marshmallows, crushed candy canes, or other candies. Gently press decorations to stick onto the surface.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the treats to cool completely for about 30 minutes. Once set, slice into 18 to 24 squares for serving and enjoy your festive hot chocolate rice krispie treats!
Notes
- Using cooking spray on your spatula when mixing helps reduce stickiness and makes mixing easier.
- Don’t press the mixture down too hard in the pan; a light touch keeps the treats airy and chewy.
- You can customize toppings to suit your preferences or seasonal themes.
- Store treats in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 3 days.
- For a richer flavor, consider using semi-sweet chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate chips.
