Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

There is something undeniably nostalgic about a Rice Krispies treat. Whether it’s the sound of the snap, crackle, and pop or the sticky, gooey pull of melted marshmallows, these treats are a staple of childhood kitchens. But what if you could elevate that classic experience with a burst of fruity flavor and a decadent chocolate finish? Enter the Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats. This recipe takes everything you love about the original and infuses it with the bold, sweet essence of cherry and a rich chocolate drizzle. It is the perfect marriage of a crispy cereal bar and a gourmet chocolate cherry cordial. Whether you are prepping for a bake sale, a holiday party, or just a Tuesday afternoon snack, these treats offer a visually stunning and flavor-packed solution that requires absolutely no oven time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You are going to fall in love with these treats for several reasons, but the primary one is the unbeatable flavor profile. The tart sweetness of the cherry gelatin perfectly balances the sugary marshmallows, while the chocolate drizzle adds a sophisticated bitterness that rounds out every bite. Beyond the taste, this recipe is a “win” for busy families because it is incredibly fast to assemble. With only 10 minutes of active cooking time, you can have a gourmet-looking dessert ready to set. Additionally, the vibrant pink hue makes them an absolute showstopper for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or birthday parties, ensuring they disappear from the dessert table in record time.

What Is a Cherry Rice Krispies Treat?

A Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treat is a creative modern variation of the traditional puffed rice cereal bar. By incorporating flavored gelatin (Jell-O) directly into the marshmallow base, the treats take on a semi-firm texture, a bright color, and a concentrated fruit flavor. Unlike standard treats which are purely vanilla-sweet, these have a “tang” that makes them much more addictive. The addition of the chocolate topping mimics the experience of eating a chocolate-covered cherry, a classic confectionary favorite. It’s a hybrid dessert that combines the accessibility of a snack bar with the decadence of a candy shop truffle, making it a hit for all ages.

what you will need

To achieve the perfect balance of texture and flavor, you only need six simple ingredients. Each plays a critical role in the final result:

1. Butter (4 tablespoons): This provides the fat needed to keep the marshmallows from sticking and adds a rich, savory undertone. You can use regular salted butter or a dairy-free alternative like Earth Balance.
2. Mini Marshmallows (10 ounces): Mini marshmallows melt faster and more evenly than the jumbo variety. Freshness is key here; older marshmallows won’t melt as smoothly.
3. Cherry Gelatin (4 ounces): This is the “secret sauce.” It provides both the vibrant pink/red color and the concentrated cherry flavor.
4. Rice Krispies (6 cups): The backbone of the treat. You can use the name brand or any generic puffed rice cereal. For those with dietary restrictions, ensure you choose a certified gluten-free version.
5. Chocolate Chips (1 1/2 cups): Semi-sweet chocolate provides the best contrast to the sweet cherry, but milk chocolate works well if you prefer a sweeter finish.
6. Shortening (1 tablespoon): Mixing this with the chocolate chips ensures a smooth, pourable consistency and helps the chocolate set with a beautiful sheen.

Ingredient Substitutions & Tips

Customization is easy with this versatile recipe. If you aren’t a fan of cherry, you can easily swap the gelatin for strawberry or raspberry to create a different berry-chocolate combination. For a vegan-friendly version, use vegan marshmallows (like Dandies), plant-based butter, and dairy-free chocolate chips. If you find the treats are too sweet, try using dark chocolate (70% cocoa) for the drizzle to provide a deeper cocoa punch. A quick tip: always use a fresh box of gelatin; if the powder has clumped due to moisture, it may not dissolve properly in the marshmallow mixture, resulting in a gritty texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Pan: Before you start the heat, grease a rimmed baking sheet or a 9×13 inch pan with butter or non-stick spray. This is a crucial step because the gelatin makes the mixture extra sticky.

2. Melt the Butter: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Keep the heat low to avoid browning the butter, which can alter the delicate cherry flavor.

3. Incorporate Marshmallows: Add the 10 ounces of mini marshmallows. Stir constantly with a silicone spatula. Continue until the mixture is 90% melted, then move quickly to the next step.

4. Add the Cherry Flavor: Pour in the 4-ounce package of cherry gelatin. Stir vigorously until the powder is fully dissolved and the marshmallow mixture is a uniform, vibrant pink color.

5. Mix the Cereal: Remove the pan from the heat immediately. Pour in the 6 cups of Rice Krispies. Use a folding motion to ensure every single piece of cereal is coated in the pink marshmallow goo.

6. Press into the Pan: Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. Pro Tip: Grease your hands with a bit of butter or water to press the mixture down. Do not pack it too tightly, or the treats will be hard to bite into.

7. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is silky smooth.

8. Drizzle and Set: Use a spoon or a piping bag to drizzle the chocolate over the cooled treats. Let them sit at room temperature for about 60 minutes (or 20 minutes in the fridge) until the chocolate is firm. Cut into squares and serve!

Expert Baking Tips

The biggest mistake people make with Rice Krispies treats is using too much heat. High heat causes the sugar in the marshmallows to crystallize, resulting in a rock-hard treat once cooled. Always stick to medium-low heat and remove the pot from the burner the moment the marshmallows are melted. Another expert tip is the “gentle press.” When putting the treats into the pan, imagine you are tucking them into bed—be gentle! If you use a heavy hand to smash them down, you lose the air pockets that make the treats light and crispy. Finally, always use a serrated knife to cut the bars for the cleanest edges.

Audrey’s Gluten-Free Guide

Navigating the world of gluten-free baking can be tricky, but this recipe is naturally very friendly to those with sensitivities. As I always say, “Embrace the adventure!” While traditional Rice Krispies often contain malt flavoring (which is derived from barley and contains gluten), many brands now offer specific gluten-free versions made with brown rice. When shopping, look for the “Certified Gluten-Free” seal on the box. Keep in mind that GF crispy rice cereals can sometimes be a bit more “sturdy” than the original, so you might want to add an extra half-cup of marshmallows if you prefer a gooier texture. The flavor remains fantastic regardless of the cereal brand you choose!

Serving Suggestions

These treats are a visual delight, so let them shine! Arrange them on a white platter to make the pink and chocolate colors pop. They look beautiful at a tea party, tucked into a school lunchbox as a surprise, or wrapped in individual cellophane bags with a red ribbon for a personalized party favor. For an extra touch of “wow,” you can sprinkle a tiny bit of sea salt over the wet chocolate drizzle to enhance the flavors, or add some dried cherry bits on top.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

To keep your treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for 3–4 days. If you need to make them further in advance, you can freeze them! Place parchment paper between layers of treats in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to 6 weeks. Just let them thaw at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator long-term, as the cold can make the cereal go stale and the marshmallows lose their elasticity.

FAQs

Can I use regular-sized marshmallows instead of mini?
Yes, but you will need to count them out (usually about 40 large marshmallows equal 10 ounces) and be patient, as they take longer to melt.

Why did my treats turn out hard?
This usually happens if the marshmallows were overcooked on high heat or if you pressed them too firmly into the pan. Low heat and a gentle touch are your best friends here!

Do I have to use shortening with the chocolate?
The shortening helps the chocolate stay slightly soft so it doesn’t crack when you bite into it, and it gives it a professional shine. You can substitute coconut oil if preferred.

Can I use sugar-free gelatin?
I don’t recommend sugar-free gelatin for this specific recipe, as the chemical structure of the sweeteners can prevent the treats from setting properly and may result in an aftertaste.

How do I get the chocolate drizzle to look professional?
Put your melted chocolate into a small Ziploc bag, snip off a tiny corner, and move your hand back and forth rapidly over the treats for a clean, thin line.

Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are a masterclass in how a few simple pantry staples can be transformed into something extraordinary. They offer a delightful crunch, a nostalgic sweetness, and a sophisticated flavor twist that sets them apart from the crowd. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just a weekend project with the kids, these vibrant bars are sure to become a new family favorite. Happy snacking!

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