If you’re anything like me, the joy of Rice Krispie Treats just makes your heart sing, but what if I told you we could take that nostalgic magic and turn it into a cookie? Yes, my friend, the Rice Krispie Treat Cookies Recipe is here to combine crispy, chewy, and gooey all into one spectacular bite. These cookies have that irresistible crunch from the cereal, the buttery sweetness of classic cookies, and a delightful marshmallow surprise inside that makes every bite a little moment of happiness. Trust me, once you try this recipe, standard cookies just might not cut it anymore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, everyday staples that come together beautifully to create a flavor and texture harmony in your Rice Krispie Treat Cookies Recipe. Each item brings its own special touch to the mix, whether it’s moisture, sweetness, or that crispy crunch we all crave.
- Butter, 1 stick: Softened butter adds richness and helps create a tender cookie texture.
- Sugar, ½ cup: Gives just the right amount of sweetness and helps with browning.
- Brown sugar, ½ cup packed: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note to the cookies.
- Egg, 1: Binds the ingredients and adds a little lift to the dough.
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Enhances the flavors with a warm, sweet aroma.
- Flour, 1 ¾ cups: The structure of our cookies, providing the perfect base.
- Baking powder, ½ teaspoon: Gives a slight rise, keeping cookies light and soft.
- Rice Krispies cereal, ½ cup: For that unmistakable crisp crunch throughout each bite.
- Marshmallows, 1 cup: The gooey, melty center that makes these cookies truly special.
How to Make Rice Krispie Treat Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your cookies bake evenly and slide right off when done.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step helps create a lovely texture and ensures your cookies will be perfectly tender.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. This will give your dough structure and a delicious underlying flavor that reminds you of classic homemade cookies.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and baking powder to your wet mixture. Stir well until a cookie dough forms, making sure not to overmix to keep your cookies soft and chewy.
Step 5: Fold in Rice Krispies
Gently fold the Rice Krispies cereal into the dough. This step adds that magical crunch that sets these cookies apart from any other treat in your cookie jar.
Step 6: Shape Dough Around Marshmallows
Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough. Flatten each portion slightly, place one marshmallow in the center, then carefully roll the dough around it to enclose completely. Roll each ball in extra Rice Krispies cereal for an eye-catching, crispy exterior.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the dough balls on your prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space for spreading. Bake for 12-14 minutes, just until the edges turn golden and the centers remain slightly gooey. This contrast in texture will win your heart.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This allows the marshmallow centers to set just enough, so they stay gooey but not messy. Then you’re ready to savor every delightful bite.
How to Serve Rice Krispie Treat Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To add a little extra flair, top your baked cookies with a drizzle of melted chocolate or sprinkle some colored sugar crystals before baking. This not only makes them more festive but layers in more flavor and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
These cookies are wonderful served alongside a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of hot cocoa. The creamy drinks perfectly balance the sweetness and crunch, creating a nostalgic, cozy snack experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re bringing these cookies to a party or gifting them, consider stacking them between sheets of wax paper in a pretty tin or wrapping them individually with festive ribbons. You can also make mini versions for bite-sized fun or sandwich a marshmallow-filled cookie with a layer of chocolate ganache for an indulgent twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Rice Krispie Treat Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft yet crunchy for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick snacks anytime.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies for up to a month. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you want a treat, just thaw at room temperature for about an hour.
Reheating
If you like your marshmallow centers warm and gooey, pop your cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds before enjoying. This little trick melts the marshmallow just enough without making the cookie too soft.
FAQs
Can I use mini marshmallows instead of regular ones?
Absolutely! Mini marshmallows can be used, though you might need to use a bit more to get that gooey center effect. Just be gentle when enclosing them so they don’t melt too quickly during baking.
What if I don’t have Rice Krispies cereal?
If Rice Krispies aren’t available, you can try a similar puffed rice cereal, but keep in mind the texture and flavor might differ slightly. The classic Rice Krispies really add to the cookie’s iconic crunch.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup for cup. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well. The texture might be slightly different, but still delicious.
How long do these cookies last?
Stored properly in an airtight container, Rice Krispie Treat Cookies will last about 3 days at room temperature. After that, they may lose their crispness and marshmallows can harden.
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?
You can definitely mix things up by adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough before baking. These additions add flavor and texture variety, but keep the marshmallow and cereal amounts the same for balance.
Final Thoughts
This Rice Krispie Treat Cookies Recipe brings the best of two beloved treats into one unforgettable bite. Whether for an afternoon snack or a party hit, these cookies offer crunch, sweetness, and a gooey surprise that’s truly hard to resist. Go ahead, try them out and share the joy – your cookie rotation will thank you!
Print
Rice Krispie Treat Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Rice Krispie Treat Cookies combine the chewy, gooey marshmallow goodness of classic Rice Krispie treats with the soft, buttery texture of a cookie. Coated in crunchy Rice Krispies cereal, these cookies offer delightful texture contrasts and a sweet, nostalgic taste perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 stick butter, room temperature
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
Add-ins
- ½ cup Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup marshmallows
- Additional Rice Krispies cereal for coating
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the room temperature butter, sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring even sweetness and texture.
- Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined, which helps bind the cookie dough and adds flavor.
- Add dry ingredients: Gradually mix in the flour and baking powder until the dough forms, avoiding overmixing to keep cookies tender.
- Fold in Rice Krispies: Gently fold the Rice Krispies cereal into the dough to maintain their crunch and add texture.
- Form cookie balls: Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough into balls. Flatten each ball, place a marshmallow in the center, then carefully roll the dough around the marshmallow. Coat the outside with additional Rice Krispies cereal for an extra crunchy exterior.
- Bake: Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-14 minutes until the edges turn golden and the centers are slightly gooey, ensuring the marshmallow melts inside.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet to set properly before serving warm for the best gooey experience.
Notes
- For crispier cookies, bake an additional 1-2 minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Use mini marshmallows if preferred; adjust the quantity accordingly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- For a chocolate variation, add chocolate chips to the dough or drizzle melted chocolate on top after baking.
