Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy No-Bake Dessert: This recipe doesn’t require an oven, making it a quick and convenient option for a sweet treat.

• Perfect Flavor Combo: The sweet cherries, crunchy Rice Krispies, and smooth chocolate create a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

• Great for Holidays & Parties: These treats look festive and can be easily customized for different occasions.

• Kid-Friendly & Fun to Make: A fun, interactive recipe that kids will enjoy making and eating!

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Rice Krispies Layer:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter

• 1 (10 oz.) bag mini marshmallows

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal

• 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped (pat dry with paper towels)

For the Chocolate Coating:

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or vegetable oil)

• ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling)

Directions

Prepare the Rice Krispies Base:

1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add mini marshmallows and salt, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth.

3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Add Rice Krispies cereal and gently fold until evenly coated. Carefully fold in chopped maraschino cherries.

5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, pressing it down evenly with a spatula or your hands (lightly buttered).

6. Let the treats set at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

Prepare the Chocolate Coating:

7. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth.

Dip the Treats:

8. Dip each Rice Krispies square halfway into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.

9. Place the dipped treats onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let the chocolate set.

10. (Optional) Drizzle melted white chocolate over the treats for a decorative touch.

11. Allow the chocolate to fully harden before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 16 squares

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Setting Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Use Dark Chocolate: Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.

• Add Nuts: Stir in chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts for added crunch.

• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of almond extract for a nuttier taste.

• Festive Touch: Decorate with colored sprinkles or edible glitter for a holiday theme.

• Different Fruits: Use dried cherries or freeze-dried raspberries instead of maraschino cherries.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to a week, but let them come to room temperature before serving to soften.

• Freezing: Wrap each square in parchment paper and freeze for up to 2 months. Let thaw at room temperature before eating.

FAQs

How do I prevent the treats from getting soggy?

Pat the maraschino cherries completely dry with paper towels before adding them to the mixture.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?

Yes, but make sure they are pitted, chopped, and dried thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Yes! You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate for the coating.

What can I use instead of coconut oil?

Vegetable oil or butter works well as a substitute for coconut oil in the chocolate coating.

Can I make these treats in advance?

Yes, you can prepare them a day or two ahead and store them in an airtight container.

How do I get clean cuts when slicing the treats?

Use a sharp knife and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray before cutting.

Can I skip the chocolate coating?

Yes, they taste delicious on their own, but the chocolate coating adds an extra layer of richness.

How can I make them extra festive?

Top with sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or a drizzle of white chocolate for a seasonal touch.

Can I use marshmallow fluff instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the amount slightly to match the consistency of melted marshmallows.

Why are my Rice Krispies treats too hard?

Avoid pressing the mixture too firmly into the pan to maintain a soft and chewy texture.

Conclusion

Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are a delightful, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crunchy Rice Krispies, sweet cherries, and rich chocolate coating, they are a fun and tasty treat that everyone will love. Get creative with variations, and enjoy these delicious bites of goodness!

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