13 Festive Rice Krispie Treats Recipes Kids Can Help Make

You might think kids can’t follow slightly tricky recipes, so test that idea with 13 festive Rice Krispie treats you can make together. You’ll get step-by-step, kid-friendly versions of classics and playful twists like candy cane swirls, gingerbread shapes, and Halloween monsters. Each recipe lists simple ingredients, basic techniques, and easy decorating tips so you can assign tasks, keep things safe, and finish treats that look fun. Keep supplies ready and invite the kids to help.

Candy Cane Swirl Rice Krispie Treats

Candy Cane Swirl Rice Krispie Treats — crunchy, minty, and extra festive.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 10 ounces mini marshmallows (about 2.5 cups) or 1 bag
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (plus extra for sprinkling)
• Red gel food coloring (a few drops)
• Nonstick spray or extra butter for the pan

How to Make:

1. Grease a 9×13-inch pan with nonstick spray or butter and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter until bubbling.
3. Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth.
4. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the peppermint extract.
5. Pour 2/3 of the melted marshmallow mixture into a large bowl and immediately stir in the Rice Krispies until coated.
6. Stir the crushed candy canes into the remaining 1/3 marshmallow mixture; add a few drops of red gel and swirl until you get a pink/red swirl (don’t overmix).
7. Press the plain Rice Krispies mixture into the prepared pan in an even layer.
8. Dollop spoonfuls of the red peppermint marshmallow mixture over the plain layer and use a knife or spatula to gently swirl — don’t fully blend; you want ribbons of red.
9. Press the top lightly with a piece of parchment or buttered hands to compact the treats.
10. Sprinkle extra crushed candy cane over the top and let cool completely (about 30–60 minutes).
11. Once set, cut into squares and enjoy.

These minty, swirled treats are perfect for holiday parties — crunchy, chewy, and oh-so-festive!

Gingerbread-Shaped Rice Krispie Bars

Gingerbread-Shaped Rice Krispie Bars — crispy, spiced, and perfectly festive for the holidays.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 10 oz (about 1 package) mini marshmallows
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Nonstick spray or extra butter for the pan
• Royal icing or white chocolate for decorating (optional)
• Gingerbread cookie cutter(s) and parchment paper

How to Make:

1. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment and lightly spray or butter it so bars release easily.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat until foamy.
3. Add the mini marshmallows and molasses to the butter; stir constantly until fully melted and smooth.
4. Stir in the ginger, cinnamon, cloves (if using), vanilla, and a pinch of salt until evenly combined.
5. Remove the pan from heat and immediately fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until well coated.
6. Turn the mixture out onto the prepared pan and press gently and evenly into a flat layer (use a buttered spatula or parchment to avoid sticking).
7. Let the slab cool completely at room temperature, about 30–45 minutes, until firm.
8. Once set, invert onto a cutting board, peel off parchment, and use gingerbread cookie cutters to cut shapes.
9. If decorating, pipe royal icing or melted white chocolate onto each gingerbread-shaped bar and let the decoration set.
10. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Enjoy these chewy, spiced Rice Krispie gingerbreads — perfect for gifting or nibbling by the tree!

Halloween Monster Rice Krispie Bites

Mini Monster Rice Krispie Bites — spooky, sweet, and perfect for little hands.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups crisp rice cereal
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 (10 oz) package marshmallows (about 40 large) or 4 cups mini marshmallows
• Food coloring (green, purple, or desired monster colors)
• Candy eyeballs (small and medium)
• Assorted mini candies for decorations (M&Ms, sprinkles, gummy fangs, licorice bits)
• Nonstick cooking spray or a little extra butter for hands

How to Make:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease it; set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Add marshmallows to the melted butter and stir until completely melted and smooth.
4. Remove pan from heat and stir in a few drops of food coloring until you reach your desired monster shade.
5. Pour the rice cereal into the marshmallow mixture and gently fold with a spatula until evenly coated.
6. Lightly grease your hands or spray them with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
7. Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a tight ball; place on the prepared sheet. Repeat until all mixture is used.
8. While the bites are still soft, press candy eyeballs and other decorations into each ball to create monster faces.
9. Let the bites cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
10. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Sink your teeth into these adorable little monsters and enjoy the gooey, crunchy fun!

Rainbow Sprinkle Party Squares

Bright, colorful Rice Krispie squares perfect for parties and happy smiles!

Ingredients:

• 6 cups crispy rice cereal
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 12 ounces (about 3 cups) mini marshmallows (or 4 cups regular marshmallows)
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup rainbow sprinkles (plus extra for topping)
• Nonstick spray or butter for pan
• Optional: a pinch of salt

How to Make:

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray or butter and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter until just bubbling.
3. Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth.
4. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla and a pinch of salt, if using.
5. Quickly fold the crispy rice cereal into the marshmallow mixture until evenly coated.
6. Gently stir in the 1/3 cup of rainbow sprinkles, saving a few tablespoons for the top.
7. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan using a buttered spatula or lightly greased hands.
8. Sprinkle the reserved sprinkles over the top and press lightly so they stick.
9. Let the squares cool at room temperature until set, about 30–45 minutes.
10. Once firm, cut into squares and enjoy.

Serve these colorful party squares at your next celebration and watch everyone’s faces light up!

Chocolate-Dipped Peppermint Treats

Chocolate-Dipped Peppermint Treats — crisp, sweet, and perfect for sharing during the holidays.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cups mini marshmallows (about 10 oz)
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 8 oz semisweet or dark chocolate, chopped or chocolate chips
• 4 oz white chocolate or white candy melts
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2–3 tablespoons crushed peppermint candy or candy canes

How to Make:

1. Line an 8×8-inch (or 9×9-inch) square pan with parchment paper or lightly butter it; set aside.
2. In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter until it’s foamy.
3. Add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
6. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan—use a piece of parchment or buttered spatula to avoid sticking.
7. Let the pan cool and set for about 30 minutes at room temperature (or 15 minutes in the fridge).
8. Melt the semisweet/dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 20–30 second bursts, stirring between, until smooth.
9. Lift the set Rice Krispie slab from the pan and cut into bars or squares.
10. Dip the top of each bar into the melted chocolate or spread the chocolate over the tops with a spoon.
11. Stir the peppermint extract into the melted white chocolate (or white melts) and drizzle over the dark chocolate-coated bars.
12. Immediately sprinkle crushed peppermint candy over the wet chocolate so it sticks.
13. Let the chocolate fully set at room temperature or chill briefly in the fridge.
14. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a firmer bite.

Enjoy these festive, chocolatey peppermint treats with a mug of hot cocoa or share them as holiday gifts!

Snowman Marshmallow Krispie Bars

Snowman Marshmallow Krispie Bars — adorable, kid-friendly treats that turn classic Rice Krispie bars into frosty, festive fun.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 4 cups mini marshmallows, plus extra for decorating
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• White melting chocolate or white candy melts (about 8 ounces)
• Black decorating gel or mini chocolate chips (for eyes and buttons)
• Orange mini candies or orange icing (for carrot noses)
• Assorted sprinkles or colored icing for scarves and hats (optional)
• Nonstick cooking spray or butter (for pan)

How to Make:

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray or butter and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter until shimmering.
3. Add 4 cups mini marshmallows to the butter and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth.
4. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Immediately fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
6. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan using a buttered spatula or waxed paper; let cool for about 20 minutes.
7. Once set, cut into bars or squares large enough to decorate as snowmen (about 9–12 pieces).
8. Melt the white chocolate or candy melts according to package directions until smooth.
9. Dip the top of each bar into the melted white chocolate or spoon it over each bar to create a smooth snowy coat; allow excess to drip off.
10. While the coating is still soft, use black decorating gel or mini chocolate chips for eyes and buttons, orange candies or icing for the nose, and extra mini marshmallows or sprinkles for hats and scarves.
11. Let the decorated bars set completely at room temperature or in the fridge for faster setting.

Enjoy these frosty Rice Krispie snowmen — perfect for holiday parties and guaranteed to bring smiles!

Valentine Heart-Shaped Rice Krispie Treats

Valentine Heart-Shaped Rice Krispie Treats — a sweet, crunchy bite of love you can make in minutes.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 10 ounces (about 3 cups) mini marshmallows (or 40 regular marshmallows)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pink or red gel food coloring (optional; a few drops)
• Valentine’s sprinkles or nonpareils for decorating (optional)
• Cooking spray or extra butter for greasing
• Heart-shaped cookie cutter (small to medium size)

How to Make:

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan lightly with cooking spray or butter.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat until fully melted.
3. Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until melted and smooth, about 3–5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and a few drops of pink or red food coloring until evenly tinted (optional).
5. Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the melted marshmallow mixture and stir gently but thoroughly until all the cereal is coated.
6. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan using a buttered spatula or wax paper—don’t press so hard that it becomes dense.
7. Let the slab cool for about 15–20 minutes until set but still slightly warm.
8. Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, press down to cut hearts; wiggle slightly and lift out each heart. Repress any scraps back into the pan to cut more shapes.
9. Decorate the tops with sprinkles or nonpareils while still slightly tacky so they stick.
10. Let the hearts finish cooling and set for another 10–15 minutes before serving.

Enjoy sharing these sweet little hearts—perfect for gifting, parties, or a cozy treat!

Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Squares

Warm, cozy pumpkin-spiced Rice Krispie squares—perfect for fall snacking or holiday trays.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 10 oz (about 2 1/2 cups) mini marshmallows
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves (optional)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Nonstick spray or a little extra butter for the pan

How to Make:

1. Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch pan with nonstick spray or butter; set aside.
2. Measure the Rice Krispies into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
4. Add the marshmallows to the melted butter and stir until mostly melted and smooth.
5. Stir in the pumpkin puree, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves (if using), vanilla, and a pinch of salt; keep stirring until the mixture is fully combined and smooth. Remove from heat.
6. Immediately pour the pumpkin-marshmallow mixture over the cereal.
7. Stir gently but quickly with a spatula until the cereal is evenly coated.
8. Transfer the coated cereal to the prepared pan and press down firmly and evenly with a buttered spatula or wax paper.
9. Let cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to set.
10. Slice into squares and serve.

Enjoy these soft, spiced squares with a cup of cider or milk—fall in every bite!

Tropical Coconut Pineapple Krispie Bites

A sunny, chewy bite that blends coconut and pineapple into classic Rice Krispie magic.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
• 10 ounces mini marshmallows (about one standard bag)
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut, plus extra for topping
• 1/2 cup finely chopped canned or fresh pineapple (drained if canned)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts or chopped toasted coconut for extra crunch

How to Make:

1. Grease a 9×9-inch pan or line it with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter until fully liquid.
3. Add the marshmallows to the melted butter and stir continuously until smooth and melted, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla and salt.
5. Immediately fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pineapple until evenly distributed.
6. Gently add the Rice Krispies cereal and stir until every piece is coated with the marshmallow mixture.
7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it down evenly using a greased spatula or lightly greased hands (use a piece of parchment between your hands and the mixture to prevent sticking).
8. Sprinkle extra shredded coconut or chopped macadamia nuts on top and gently press to adhere.
9. Let the bars cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then slice into bite-sized squares or bars.

Enjoy these tropical Krispie bites with a cold drink — they’re little pieces of sunshine in every chewy bite!

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Rice Krispie Bars

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Rice Krispie Bars — chewy cookie dough meets crispy marshmallow bliss.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 10 oz (about 1 package) mini marshmallows
• 1 cup chocolate chip cookie dough (store-bought edible cookie dough or homemade, chilled and scoopable)
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, plus extra for topping
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Nonstick spray or butter for the pan

How to Make:

1. Line an 8×8-inch (or 9×9) pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper so bars release easily.
2. In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter until just liquid.
3. Add the marshmallows to the melted butter and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth; remove from heat.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
5. Pour the Rice Krispies into a large bowl and pour the marshmallow mixture over them; stir quickly to coat evenly.
6. When the mixture is just cool enough to handle but still warm, gently fold in the cookie dough broken into small chunks and the 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips so they’re distributed but don’t fully melt.
7. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan (use a piece of parchment or a lightly greased spatula to press without sticking).
8. Sprinkle a few extra mini chocolate chips on top and press them lightly into the surface.
9. Let the bars cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to set; refrigerate briefly if you want firmer bars.
10. Lift the slab from the pan using the parchment and cut into squares with a sharp knife.

Enjoy a gooey, crispy treat — perfect for cookie lovers and Rice Krispie fans alike!

S’mores Rice Krispie Squares

S’mores Rice Krispie Squares — gooey, crunchy, and campfire-inspired in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows (or about 4 cups)
• 1 cup chocolate chips (semisweet or milk)
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 6–8 full crackers, crushed)
• Optional: extra mini marshmallows and additional graham cracker crumbs for topping
• Nonstick spray or a little butter for the pan

How to Make:

1. Spray or lightly butter a 9×9-inch (or 8×8 for thicker bars) pan and set aside.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Add the marshmallows to the melted butter and stir until fully melted and smooth.
4. Remove the pot from heat and quickly stir in the Rice Krispies until evenly coated.
5. Fold in the graham cracker crumbs and chocolate chips, stirring just enough to distribute them.
6. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan using a spatula or lightly buttered hands for an even layer.
7. If you like, press a few extra mini marshmallows and sprinkle extra graham cracker crumbs on top.
8. Let the bars cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes to set (or chill briefly to speed this up).
9. Cut into squares and serve.

Enjoy these campfire favorite squares — melty, crunchy, and perfect for sharing!

Dinosaur Footprint Rice Krispie Treats

Stomp into snack time with these fun, crunchy Dinosaur Footprint Rice Krispie Treats!

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 10 ounces mini marshmallows (about one standard bag)
• Green food coloring (a few drops, or more for desired shade)
• Chocolate chips or melted chocolate for claws (about 1/2 cup)
• Optional: green sprinkles or edible glitter for extra dino sparkle

How to Make:

1. Grease a 9×13-inch pan lightly with butter or nonstick spray.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
3. Add the marshmallows and stir until fully melted and smooth.
4. Stir in a few drops of green food coloring until the color is even.
5. Remove pan from heat and immediately fold in the Rice Krispies until evenly coated.
6. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan using a buttered spatula or wax paper to create an even layer.
7. Let the treats cool for a few minutes but not completely set—still warm and pliable.
8. Use a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to press three small oval indentations for toes and one larger oval for the pad to form a dinosaur footprint; repeat across the surface to make multiple footprints.
9. Press a few chocolate chips or small dots of melted chocolate at the tip of each toe indentation to create claws.
10. If desired, sprinkle green sprinkles or edible glitter over the treats for extra prehistoric pizzazz.
11. Let the treats cool completely until set, then cut into squares or around footprints and serve.

Enjoy roaring approval—these dino footprints vanish fast!

Unicorn Color-Blocked Rice Krispie Bars

Sparkling unicorn color-blocked Rice Krispie bars — magical, chewy, and perfect for parties!

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 10 ounces mini marshmallows (about 2 bags) or 5 cups large marshmallows
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Gel food coloring in pink, purple, and teal (or colors of your choice)
• 1/4 cup white chocolate chips or melting wafers (optional, for drizzle)
• Rainbow sprinkles or edible glitter, for decoration
• Nonstick spray or extra butter for pan

How to Make:

1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan with nonstick spray or butter and set aside.
2. In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter until it’s foamy.
3. Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth.
4. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla.
5. Pour the melted marshmallow mixture into three small bowls, dividing it as evenly as possible.
6. Tint each bowl with a different gel color, stirring until the color is uniform.
7. Add 2 cups Rice Krispies to each colored bowl and stir until the cereal is fully coated.
8. Press the first colored mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan to form the first block (use a buttered spatula or piece of parchment to press without sticking).
9. Press the second colored layer gently and evenly on top of the first, then repeat with the third color to create color-blocked layers.
10. If using, melt white chocolate chips in short bursts in the microwave, stirring until smooth, then drizzle over the top and immediately sprinkle rainbow sprinkles or edible glitter.
11. Let the pan sit at room temperature until fully set (about 30–45 minutes) or refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to speed up.
12. Once set, lift from the pan and cut into bars with a sharp knife (wipe the knife between cuts for clean edges).

Serve these whimsical bars and watch smiles appear — they’re pure party magic!

Conclusion

You’ve got a dozen-plus easy, kid-friendly Rice Krispie ideas that let kids help mix, shape, and decorate. Pick a theme, set out bowls and tools, and assign simple tasks like measuring, stirring, or pressing the mixture into pans. Work together on cooling and decorating, and wrap extras for sharing. Like a quick craft project, these treats come together fast and stay sturdy for parties or snacks, so plan, supervise, and enjoy the results.