These Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats combine the irresistible crunch of Rice Krispies, the sweetness of maraschino cherries, and a rich chocolate coating. Perfect for holidays, parties, or as a fun family activity, this no-bake dessert is easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Customize them with nuts, different fruits, or festive touches like sprinkles for any occasion!
For the Rice Krispies Layer:
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 (10 oz.) bag mini marshmallows
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 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)
1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling)
Prepare the Rice Krispies Base:
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and salt, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Add Rice Krispies cereal and gently fold until evenly coated. Carefully fold in chopped maraschino cherries.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, pressing it down evenly with a spatula or your hands (lightly buttered). Let the treats set at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
Prepare the Chocolate Coating:
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:
Dip each Rice Krispies square halfway into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
Place the dipped treats onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let the chocolate set.
(Optional) Drizzle melted white chocolate over the treats for a decorative touch. Allow the chocolate to fully harden before serving.
For a more intense flavor, swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate.
Add nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts for extra crunch.
Get creative with festive touches like sprinkles or edible glitter for holidays.
Use dried cherries or freeze-dried raspberries as alternatives to maraschino cherries.