30-Minute Peppermint Rice Krispie Snow Ball Treats
These festive rice krispie treats combine the classic crispy texture with crushed candy canes for a refreshing peppermint twist. Each ball or shaped treat is dipped in smooth white chocolate coating and can be decorated with additional sprinkles. Perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or winter celebrations, these no-bake treats offer a fun alternative to traditional cookies. The combination of marshmallow binding, peppermint crunch, and white chocolate coating creates layers of texture and flavor that appeal to both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup Butter
- 1 10-ounce package Marshmallows
- ⅓ cup Crushed Candy CanesPeppermint extract1/3 cup to 1/2 teaspoon
Use extract for smoother texture without crunch
- 6 cups Rice Krispies CerealCocoa Krispies1:1
Creates chocolate peppermint version
- 2 14-ounce bags White Candy MeltsWhite chocolate chips1:1Melt with marshmallows instead of separately
high
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
Instructions
- 1
Melt butter in large saucepan over medium low heat
- 2
Add marshmallows and melt completely
- 3
Stir in crushed candy canes
- 4
Remove from heat and stir in Rice Krispies
- 5
For balls: scoop heaping tablespoons and roll into balls, adding candy cane to center of each
- 6
For shapes: press mixture into greased pan, cool 5-10 minutes, cut shapes, add candy cane to top
- 7
Refrigerate finished treats for 15 minutes
- 8
Melt candy melts according to package directions and add vegetable oil to thin
- 9
Dip cooled treats into chocolate, sprinkle or decorate as desired
- 10
Set aside to cool and harden completely
Tips
For easier handling, lightly grease your hands when rolling the mixture into balls to prevent sticking.
The vegetable oil helps thin the candy melts for smoother dipping - start with less and add more if needed.
Work quickly when dipping as the chocolate coating will begin to set, and have decorations ready to apply immediately.
Good to Know
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week
Can be made 2-3 days ahead - store chocolate-dipped treats in single layers separated by parchment
Serve at room temperature for best texture and flavor
Common Mistakes
Work quickly when rolling balls as mixture becomes harder to shape as it cools
Don't add oil to chocolate chips if using the quick method - they'll melt with the marshmallows
Substitutions
Use extract for smoother texture without crunch
Full guide →Creates chocolate peppermint version
FAQ
Can I use regular chocolate instead of white candy melts?
Yes, you can use any chocolate chips or candy melts. Dark or milk chocolate work well too, though they'll change the visual appeal of the 'snow ball' theme.
What if I don't have candy canes?
Substitute with 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract mixed in with the marshmallows, or use crushed peppermint candies or mint chocolate chips for different flavor variations.
How long do these treats keep?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. The chocolate coating helps preserve freshness.