These s’mores rice krispie treats offer a delightful, nostalgic twist on the beloved classic Rice Krispie Treat recipe. Imagine crisp, gooey cereal bars infused with crushed graham crackers, generously topped with a rich layer of melted chocolate, and then finished with a sprinkle of additional graham cracker crumbs. They are truly irresistible!
Indulge in Homemade S’mores Rice Krispie Treats
If you’re a fan of the chewy, sweet delight of traditional Rice Krispie Treats and the smoky, chocolatey goodness of s’mores, then prepare to fall in love with these S’mores Rice Krispie Treats. This recipe masterfully combines the best of both worlds, delivering a dessert that’s both familiar and excitingly new. You’ll find the same satisfyingly crispy texture you expect from classic cereal bars, but elevated with a distinct graham cracker flavor woven throughout the treat, crowned with a smooth, decadent layer of chocolate. Not only are they incredibly simple to prepare, requiring no baking, but they are also impossibly easy to devour!
These S’mores Rice Krispie Treats have quickly become a staple on my summer dessert menu. Their no-fuss nature and crowd-pleasing flavor make them ideal for picnics, barbecues, or simply a sweet afternoon treat. If you’re looking for more delightful summer dessert ideas that are equally easy and delicious, be sure to explore my easy apricot pie, crafted with a convenient store-bought crust, or my refreshing gluten-free and dairy-free nectarine peach crisp.
Table of Contents
- Why This Recipe Works
- Key Ingredients for S’mores Rice Krispie Treats
- Customizing Your Treats: Additions & Substitutions
- Step-by-Step Instructions to Make S’mores Rice Krispie Treats
- Expert Tips for Perfect S’mores Rice Krispie Treats
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- More Delectable Dessert Recipes You’ll Love:
- S’mores Rice Krispie Treats Recipe Card
Why This Recipe Works: The Ultimate Easy Dessert Solution
These S’mores Rice Krispie Treats aren’t just delicious; they are incredibly practical and simple to make, making them an ideal choice for any occasion. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation:
- Minimal Ingredients: You’ll only need a handful of common pantry staples – just 5 core ingredients! This means less shopping and more time enjoying your homemade treats.
- Lightning Fast Preparation: From start to finish, these delightful S’mores Rice Krispie Treats come together quickly. They are a perfect last-minute dessert option when you need something impressive without the fuss.
- No Special Extras Required: Unlike some complicated recipes, you won’t need any unusual or expensive ingredients. Everything you need to create the classic Rice Krispie Treat base and the iconic S’mores flavor profile is standard. No fancy equipment, no elaborate techniques.
- A Nostalgic Flavor Fusion: They deliver the comforting chewiness of classic rice krispie treats, but with an exciting and authentic S’mores twist. The addition of graham crackers and a generous chocolate topping truly captures that campfire-favorite taste.
- Dietary Adaptability: This recipe is wonderfully versatile. With simple substitutions, it can effortlessly be made dairy-free and gluten-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy these fantastic treats.
- No-Bake Brilliance: Perfect for hot summer days or when you simply don’t want to turn on the oven. These treats require absolutely no baking, keeping your kitchen cool and your effort minimal.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: The simple steps and exciting flavors make this a fantastic recipe to involve children in the kitchen. They’ll love crushing graham crackers and watching the marshmallows melt!
Key Ingredients for S’mores Rice Krispie Treats
Crafting the perfect S’mores Rice Krispie Treat starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this irresistible dessert:
- Crispy Rice Cereal: The foundation of our treats! You can use any brand of crispy rice cereal you prefer. For the best texture, ensure your cereal is fresh and crunchy. Off-brand versions work just as well as the name brand, so feel free to choose what’s most accessible.
- Graham Crackers: These provide the essential ‘graham’ flavor that distinguishes s’mores. Any brand of graham cracker will work beautifully. For those with dietary restrictions, or if you simply enjoy homemade options, consider making your own with this fantastic Gluten-free Graham Crackers recipe from This Vivacious Life. You’ll be crushing them, so broken pieces are perfectly fine!
- Butter: High-quality pure butter adds a rich, creamy base to our marshmallow mixture, ensuring a smooth, pliable, and delicious treat. Unsalted butter is generally preferred in baking to control the salt content, but salted butter can also be used if that’s what you have on hand. For a dairy-free alternative, simply swap in a good quality dairy-free or Vegan butter.
- Marshmallows: The magical binding agent that makes these treats delightfully gooey. I personally recommend using Kraft marshmallows as they tend to melt more smoothly and consistently than some other brands, leading to a perfectly chewy texture. If you’re seeking a healthier or vegan option, Dandies marshmallows are an excellent choice that melts well and maintains great flavor. Both large and miniature marshmallows work, just ensure you have the correct quantity by weight or volume.
- Chocolate Chips: The final essential component for that signature s’mores taste. I typically opt for semi-sweet chocolate chips, which offer a balanced sweetness that complements the other ingredients. However, feel free to customize based on your preference: milk chocolate chips will yield a sweeter, creamier result, while dark chocolate chips will add a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor. You can also use a chopped chocolate bar for a more gourmet feel.
- Olive Oil (or other neutral oil): A small amount of oil is used when melting the chocolate to ensure it becomes smooth and easy to spread without seizing or burning. Any neutral-flavored oil like canola or vegetable oil will work.
For a precise list of ingredients and their measurements, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located at the end of this article.
Customizing Your Treats: Additions & Substitutions
One of the best things about this S’mores Rice Krispie Treat recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit various dietary needs or simply to experiment with different flavors:
- To make this recipe dairy-free: Ensure you use a non-dairy or Vegan butter alternative, which works seamlessly in this recipe. Additionally, make sure to choose dairy-free chocolate chips to keep the entire treat dairy-free. Many brands now offer excellent dairy-free chocolate options that melt beautifully.
- To make this recipe gluten-free: The primary ingredient to watch out for is the crispy rice cereal. Opt for a certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal. While most plain rice cereals are naturally gluten-free, some brands may contain malt flavoring which is derived from barley, so always check the label carefully. Ensure your graham crackers are also gluten-free (homemade or store-bought certified options are available).
- Miniature Marshmallows: For an extra “campfire” vibe, consider adding a handful of miniature marshmallows on top of the melted chocolate layer before sprinkling with graham crackers. They’ll soften slightly but retain their shape, adding another textural dimension.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of a full layer of melted chocolate, you can drizzle it decoratively over the rice krispie base for a lighter touch, or even add a contrasting white chocolate drizzle for visual appeal.
- Nut Butter Swirl: For an additional layer of flavor, swirl a tablespoon or two of peanut butter or almond butter into your melted chocolate before spreading it over the treats.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make S’mores Rice Krispie Treats
Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of irresistible S’mores Rice Krispie Treats:
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crumbs. Begin by crushing your graham crackers. Place whole graham cracker sheets into a food processor and pulse until they form fine, even crumbs. Once crushed, measure out exactly 1 ¼ cups of these graham cracker crumbs. Set aside ¼ cup for topping later, and keep 1 cup ready for the cereal mixture.
Step 2: Melt the Butter. In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the specified amount of butter over low heat. It’s crucial to use low heat to prevent the butter from browning, which could alter the flavor of your treats. Stir occasionally until completely melted.
Step 3: Add the Marshmallows. Once the butter is fully melted, add all of the marshmallows to the saucepan. Continue to stir continuously over low heat, ensuring the marshmallows melt evenly and don’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
Step 4: Create the Gooey Base. Keep mixing the marshmallows into the melted butter until the mixture is completely smooth and gooey, with no lumps remaining. As soon as it’s fully melted, remove the pan from the heat immediately to prevent the marshmallows from becoming too stiff or grainy.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients with Marshmallow Mixture. Into the pan with the melted marshmallows, add the crispy rice cereal along with 1 cup of the prepared ground graham crackers. This is where the magic of the s’mores flavor truly infuses the treats.
Step 6: Mix Until Evenly Coated. Using a greased spatula (to prevent sticking), gently but thoroughly mix the cereal and graham cracker crumbs into the melted marshmallows. Continue mixing until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the gooey marshmallow mixture. Work quickly before the mixture sets.
Step 7: Press into Pan. Transfer the entire mixture into a pre-greased 9×13 inch baking pan (a 12×9 inch pan is also suitable, as mentioned in the original recipe card). Using a lightly greased rubber spatula, or by slightly wetting your hands, gently but firmly press the mixture down into an even, compact layer across the bottom of the pan. This technique prevents sticking and ensures uniform treats. Let the treats cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour.
Step 8: Melt the Chocolate Topping. While the rice krispie base cools, melt your chocolate chips. Place the chocolate chips and 1 teaspoon of a neutral oil (like olive oil) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval, until the chocolate is completely smooth and melted. This method helps prevent the chocolate from seizing or burning.
Step 9: Apply the Chocolate Layer. Once the rice krispie base has cooled slightly and is firm enough to support the chocolate, pour the melted chocolate evenly over the top. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the chocolate smoothly from edge to edge, creating a beautiful, uniform layer.
Step 10: Add Final Graham Cracker Topping. Immediately after spreading the chocolate, sprinkle the reserved ¼ cup of ground graham crackers evenly over the melted chocolate layer. This adds both visual appeal and an extra crunch of s’mores flavor. To help the chocolate set quickly, place the entire pan into the fridge for about 10 minutes, or the freezer for just a few minutes, until the chocolate is firm but not overly hard.
Step 11: Cut and Serve. Once the chocolate layer has sufficiently hardened, carefully remove the treats from the fridge or freezer. Using a sharp, warmed knife (run it under hot water and wipe dry between cuts for clean slices), cut the S’mores Rice Krispie Treats into desired squares or rectangles. For the best texture, store the finished treats at room temperature.
Expert Tips for Perfect S’mores Rice Krispie Treats
Achieving perfectly gooey, flavorful S’mores Rice Krispie Treats is simple with a few insider tricks. Here are some expert tips to ensure your treats are always a hit:
- Crushing Graham Crackers Without a Food Processor: No food processor? No problem! You can easily crush graham crackers in a blender for a similar fine crumb texture. Alternatively, place them in a sturdy resealable plastic bag, remove excess air, and use a rolling pin or a heavy pan to smash them into fine crumbs. Aim for a consistent texture for even distribution in your treats.
- Ensuring an Even Layer: To create a smooth and uniform layer of the rice krispie mixture in your pan, lightly dampen your hands with water or grease them with a little butter/non-stick spray before pressing down. This simple trick prevents the sticky marshmallow mixture from adhering to your hands, allowing you to quickly and easily achieve an even, compact layer. Don’t press too hard, as this can make the treats overly dense.
- Melting Chocolate Like a Pro: When melting chocolate, whether in the microwave or over a double boiler, always add a tiny bit of neutral oil (like olive oil, coconut oil, or vegetable oil) to the chocolate chips. This helps the chocolate melt smoothly and prevents it from seizing or becoming clumpy. When microwaving, heat in short bursts (30-second increments), stirring diligently after each interval. This gentle approach is key to preventing the chocolate from burning, which can lead to a bitter taste and grainy texture.
- Setting the Chocolate Topping: To speed up the hardening of the chocolate layer, place the entire pan of treats into the refrigerator for about 10 minutes, or into the freezer for just a few minutes. The chocolate doesn’t need to be rock-hard; a slightly firm but still pliable consistency is ideal before cutting. Once it’s set, remove the pan from the cold environment immediately to prevent the treats from becoming too stiff.
- Optimal Storage for Soft Treats: After your S’mores Rice Krispie Treats are assembled and the chocolate has set, store the pan, loosely covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, at room temperature. Keeping them in the refrigerator will cause the marshmallow mixture to become excessively hard and lose its signature chewy texture. Storing at room temperature maintains their soft, gooey consistency for several days.
- Don’t Overcook Marshmallows: When melting marshmallows, keep the heat low and remove them from the stove as soon as they are fully melted and smooth. Overcooking can lead to stiff, hard treats once they cool.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Got questions about making or storing your S’mores Rice Krispie Treats? We’ve got answers!
How do you properly store these S’mores Rice Krispie Treats?
For the best texture and freshness, store your S’mores Rice Krispie Treats at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container or cover the baking pan tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. This method keeps them wonderfully soft and chewy for up to 4-5 days. Avoid refrigerating them for extended periods, as this can make the treats too hard.
Can I make these S’mores Rice Krispie Treats in advance for an event?
Absolutely! These treats are perfect for making ahead. You can prepare them up to 2 days in advance of when you plan to serve them. Since they maintain their quality for 4-5 days when stored correctly at room temperature, making them a couple of days beforehand won’t compromise their deliciousness or texture.
Should I put Rice Krispie Treats in the refrigerator after making them?
Generally, no. For optimal chewiness and softness, Rice Krispie Treats should be stored at room temperature. The only exception is briefly placing them in the refrigerator or freezer for a few minutes solely to help the chocolate topping harden more quickly. As soon as the chocolate is firm to the touch, it’s best to remove them and bring them back to room temperature storage. Prolonged refrigeration will make the treats unpleasantly hard.
What makes these “S’mores” flavored compared to regular Rice Krispie Treats?
The “S’mores” magic comes from two key additions. First, crushed graham crackers are mixed directly into the gooey marshmallow and crispy rice cereal base, infusing every bite with that distinct graham flavor. Second, a generous layer of melted chocolate is spread over the top and then sprinkled with more graham cracker crumbs, mimicking the classic s’mores combination of graham cracker, chocolate, and marshmallow. It’s a flavor explosion!
Can I use different types of chocolate for the topping?
Certainly! While semi-sweet chocolate chips are a popular choice for their balanced flavor, you can absolutely customize the chocolate layer. Milk chocolate chips will yield a sweeter, creamier topping, while dark chocolate chips will provide a more intense, slightly bitter contrast. You can also experiment with a blend of different chocolates or even a white chocolate drizzle for visual flair.
More Delectable Dessert Recipes You’ll Love:
Decadent White Chocolate Brownies
Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Rich Almond Flour Egg Yolk Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Did you create these delightful S’mores Rice Krispie Treats? Please leave me a ⭐ review below! Your feedback helps others discover and enjoy this recipe.
S’mores Rice Krispie Treats Recipe Card
S’mores Rice Krispie Treats
These S’mores Rice Krispie Treats are an exciting twist on the classic no-bake dessert, featuring ground graham crackers mixed into the crispy base, a generous layer of melted chocolate, and a final sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs. They’re quick, easy, and utterly delightful!
Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons butter
- 1 package JET-PUFFED Marshmallows (10 ounces, about 40 large marshmallows, or 5 ½ cups miniature marshmallows)
- 5 ½ cups crispy rice cereal
- 1 ¼ cups crushed graham crackers, divided
- 2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet recommended)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (or other neutral oil)
Instructions
- Lightly spray a 9×13 inch pan (or 12×9 inch) with nonstick spray, such as olive oil spray, and set aside.
- In a food processor, pulse graham crackers until fine crumbs form. Measure out 1 ¼ cups of crushed graham crackers. Reserve ¼ cup for topping; keep 1 cup for the cereal mixture.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted and smooth. Remove the pan from the heat immediately.
- Add the crispy rice cereal and 1 cup of the crushed graham crackers to the melted marshmallow mixture in the pan. Mix gently but thoroughly with a greased spatula until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Using a lightly greased rubber spatula or slightly wet hands, gently press the mixture into an even, compact layer across the bottom of the pan. Let the treats cool at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour.
- While the treats cool, place chocolate chips and 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring well after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Once the rice krispie base is set, pour the melted chocolate over it, spreading it evenly across the top with an offset spatula. Immediately sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of crumbled graham crackers over the chocolate layer.
- To harden the chocolate more quickly, place the pan into the refrigerator for about 10 minutes, or the freezer for a few minutes. Once the chocolate is firm, remove the pan. Store the finished treats at room temperature for the best soft and chewy texture. Cut into squares before serving.
Notes
- To make this recipe dairy-free: Use a non-dairy or Vegan butter alternative and ensure your chocolate chips are certified dairy-free.
- To make this recipe gluten-free: Opt for a certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal and ensure your graham crackers are also gluten-free.
- For optimal freshness, store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. Refrigeration will make them too hard.
Nutrition Information
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0.1g
Cholesterol: 5mg
Sodium: 91mg
Potassium: 72mg
Fiber: 0.2g
Sugar: 12g
Vitamin A: 565IU
Vitamin C: 5mg
Calcium: 18mg
Iron: 3mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be considered an approximation.
Additional Info