Rice Krispies treats have long been a beloved, go-to dessert. But if you’re looking to elevate the classic recipe, why not add a touch of indulgence with chocolate and cherries? Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats bring together the crispiness of Rice Krispies, the sweetness of marshmallows, and the fruity tartness of cherries, all coated in rich, semi-sweet chocolate. Perfect for holidays, parties, or just as a special treat, these delightful squares are sure to be a hit with friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are the ultimate indulgence. The addition of maraschino cherries adds a burst of sweetness and tartness that perfectly balances the crunchy, gooey Rice Krispies base. Topped with a smooth layer of semi-sweet chocolate, this treat is a fun, easy-to-make dessert that combines the best of both worlds: classic comfort food and a little bit of decadence. Whether for a holiday gathering, a snack, or a party, these treats are bound to please everyone!
Ingredients
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6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
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1/4 cup unsalted butter
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10 oz mini marshmallows
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
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1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
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1 tbsp coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)
Tip: You can find a list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.
Instructions
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Melt the Marshmallows
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor. -
Add the Cereal and Cherries
Remove the pot from heat and quickly stir in the Rice Krispies cereal and chopped maraschino cherries. Stir until the mixture is fully combined and the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture. -
Shape the Treats
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the dish and gently press it down using a greased spatula to create an even layer. Let the treats cool completely. -
Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted. -
Drizzle or Dip the Treats
Once the Rice Krispies treats have cooled and set, drizzle the melted chocolate over the top, or dip each square halfway into the melted chocolate. Place the treats on a sheet of parchment paper and allow the chocolate to harden. -
Serve
Once the chocolate has set, slice the treats into squares and enjoy the perfect combination of crunch, sweetness, and chocolatey goodness!
Variations
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Add Nuts: For an extra crunch, feel free to stir in some chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the Rice Krispies mixture.
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Use Dark Chocolate: If you prefer a richer flavor, dark chocolate chips can be used instead of semi-sweet chocolate.
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Change the Fruit: While cherries are a great addition, you can experiment with other fruits like dried cranberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a different twist.
Heating/Storage
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Storage: Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days.
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Freezing: You can also freeze these treats! Simply layer them between parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to a month. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
10 FAQ
1. Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, you can use regular marshmallows. Just ensure you use the same weight (10 oz) to maintain the correct consistency.
2. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to use milk chocolate or white chocolate, depending on your preference.
3. How can I make the chocolate coating smoother?
Adding a little coconut oil to the melted chocolate will help make the coating smoother and shinier.
4. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
While fresh cherries are an option, they may not be as sweet and may have a different texture than maraschino cherries. Make sure to pit and chop them well.
5. How long do these treats stay fresh?
These treats stay fresh for about 4-5 days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container.
6. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these treats can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
7. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses Rice Krispies cereal and marshmallows, which are both gluten-free (check the label to be sure).
8. Can I add a topping to the chocolate drizzle?
Certainly! You can sprinkle crushed Oreos, sprinkles, or even mini chocolate chips on top of the chocolate drizzle for extra texture.
9. Can I make these treats in a different size pan?
Yes! You can adjust the size of the pan, but keep in mind that the treats will be thicker or thinner depending on the pan size. Adjust the cooling time accordingly.
10. How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when cutting?
Let the chocolate coating set at room temperature rather than refrigerating, as quick changes in temperature can cause the chocolate to crack. Make sure the truffles are completely cool before slicing.
Conclusion
Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats offer the perfect balance of crunch, sweetness, and a touch of chocolate. Whether you’re preparing them for a special event, holiday, or simply as a treat for your family, these truffles are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a fun and indulgent dessert in no time. Enjoy the crunchy, gooey goodness of these irresistible truffles
Print
Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 16-20 squares
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and salty with these Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats. Made with marshmallows, Rice Krispies, maraschino cherries, and a smooth chocolate coating, this simple dessert is a hit for any occasion
Ingredients
For the Rice Krispies Base:
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1/4 cup unsalted butter
10 oz mini marshmallows
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
For the Chocolate Coating:
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tbsp coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)
Instructions
-
Melt the Marshmallows:
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. -
Add the Cereal and Cherries:
Remove the pot from heat and quickly stir in the Rice Krispies cereal and chopped maraschino cherries until the mixture is fully combined. -
Shape the Treats:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Press the mixture into the dish and allow it to cool completely. -
Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with coconut oil (if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted. -
Drizzle or Dip the Treats:
Once the Rice Krispies treats have cooled, drizzle the melted chocolate over the top, or dip each square halfway into the melted chocolate. Place the treats on parchment paper and let the chocolate harden. -
Serve:
Once the chocolate has set, slice the treats into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- Add Nuts: Stir in chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Use Dark Chocolate: Swap the semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Change the Fruit: Instead of cherries, try using dried cranberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a different fruity twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: dessert
