Gluten-Free Christmas Rice Krispie Treats
These festive Rice Krispie treats bring holiday cheer to the classic cereal bar with colorful Christmas sprinkles and red and green M&Ms mixed throughout and on top. The buttery marshmallow base creates that perfect chewy texture we all love, while the holiday decorations make them perfect for Christmas parties, cookie exchanges, or family gatherings. What sets this version apart is the double dose of festive candy - some mixed in for surprise pops of chocolate and some on top for visual appeal. They're simple enough for kids to help make and impressive enough for holiday entertaining.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup butter, melted
- 6 ounces mini marshmallows
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 7 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 3 tablespoons Christmas sprinklesregular sprinkles1:1year-round
Any colored sprinkles work
- ½ cup red and green M&Mschocolate chips1:1alternative
Mini chips distribute better
Instructions
- 1
Grease and line a 9x9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper
- 2
Heat butter in a large saucepan on medium until melted
- 3
Add mini marshmallows and stir with the butter until completely melted
- 4
Remove pan from heat and add vanilla extract, stirring through
- 5
Add Rice Krispies cereal in thirds, stirring to incorporate after each addition
- 6
Add Christmas sprinkles and half of the M&Ms, stirring to distribute evenly
- 7
Spoon mixture into prepared pan and smooth into compact even layer with back of spoon
- 8
Place remaining M&Ms on top
- 9
Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours
- 10
Lift slab out using parchment paper
- 11
Slice into 12 bars
Tips
Press the mixture firmly into the pan for bars that hold together well when sliced
Let the marshmallow mixture cool slightly before adding sprinkles to prevent them from melting
Use kitchen spray on your spoon when smoothing the mixture to prevent sticking
Good to Know
Store covered at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerated for up to 1 week
Can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored covered
Serve at room temperature for best texture
Common Mistakes
Don't overheat marshmallows to avoid tough texture
Press mixture firmly to prevent crumbly bars
Let cool completely before cutting for clean slices
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Vegan Options
General Alternatives
Any colored sprinkles work
FAQ
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini?
Yes, use about 4 cups of regular marshmallows cut into pieces. They'll take slightly longer to melt completely.
What if I don't have Christmas sprinkles?
Any colorful sprinkles work, or omit them entirely. You could also use crushed candy canes for holiday flavor.
How long do these keep?
They stay fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature or 1 week refrigerated when stored in an airtight container.