Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Recipe

Fluffy Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Recipe: Sweet Childhood Joy

Gooey marshmallow rice krispie balls spark childhood memories of sweet, nostalgic treats that bring instant smiles.

Sticky marshmallows blend perfectly with crispy cereal for a delightful snack everyone adores.

Kids and adults can’t resist these bite-sized delights packed with sugary goodness.

Soft yet crunchy textures create a magical combination that feels like pure happiness.

Simple ingredients come together in minutes, making this recipe a go-to for quick dessert cravings.

No baking required means you can whip up these delectable treats faster than brewing coffee.

Let’s roll into this irresistible adventure that promises to delight your taste buds and brighten any moment.

Simple Ingredient List for Krispie Marshmallow Balls

Base Ingredients:
  • Marshmallows: Large, fluffy white treats that serve as the core of these delightful rice krispie balls.
  • Rice Krispies Cereal: Crispy rice cereal that provides a crunchy exterior and delicious texture.
Caramel Coating Ingredients:
  • Caramel Pieces, Sweetened Condensed Milk, Butter: A rich and creamy mixture that creates a smooth, sweet coating for the marshmallows.
Preparation Ingredient:
  • Toothpicks or Skewers: Essential tools for easily dipping and handling marshmallows during the coating process.
Additional Ingredient:
  • Parchment Paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier when cooling the rice krispie balls.

Rolling Up Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls at Home

Step 1: Melt Caramel Base

Grab a medium-sized pan and toss in caramel pieces, sweetened condensed milk, and butter.

Heat the mixture over medium flame, stirring constantly until everything melts into a silky, smooth sauce that looks glossy and tempting.

Step 2: Prepare Marshmallow Handles

Carefully insert a toothpick or wooden skewer into each marshmallow, creating a convenient handle for dipping and coating.

This trick makes the entire process much easier and less messy.

Step 3: Create Caramel Coating

Dunk each marshmallow into the warm caramel mixture, twirling it gently to ensure a complete and even coverage.

Allow excess caramel to drip back into the pan, creating a thin, even layer.

Step 4: Add Crispy Exterior

Pour Rice Krispies cereal into a spacious bowl.

Roll each caramel-covered marshmallow through the cereal, pressing gently to help the crispy pieces adhere completely to the sticky surface.

Step 5: Set And Cool

Place the coated marshmallow balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Carefully remove the toothpicks, leaving behind perfectly round treats.

Let them rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes until the caramel sets and the coating becomes firm.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy

Once cooled and set, these gooey, crunchy Rice Krispie balls are ready to delight everyone.

Serve them as a sweet snack or dessert that combines chewy marshmallows, rich caramel, and crispy cereal in every bite.

Tricks for Gooey and Chewy Krispie Ball Treats

  • Select fresh, soft marshmallows for the best texture and taste in your Rice Krispie balls.
  • Maintain medium heat while stirring to prevent burning and ensure a smooth, glossy caramel mixture.
  • Lightly grease your hands with butter when rolling marshmallows to prevent sticky situations and create neat, uniform balls.
  • Experiment with different cereals like cocoa puffs or crushed graham crackers for unique flavor combinations and exciting textures.
  • Keep Rice Krispie balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their crispy, chewy goodness.

Rice Krispie Ball Variations With Candy Mix-Ins

  • Chocolate Lover's Delight: Replace caramel with melted chocolate for a rich, decadent coating that chocolate fans will adore.
  • Nutty Crunch Variation: Swap Rice Krispies with crushed almonds or pecans for added texture and nutty flavor.
  • Vegan-Friendly Option: Use coconut condensed milk, dairy-free butter, and vegan marshmallows to create a plant-based version of the treat.
  • Gluten-Free Alternative: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, particularly the marshmallows and cereal, to make this recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Plating Krispie Balls for Kids and Parties

  • Sweet Party Platter: Create a festive dessert board with these Rice Krispie balls alongside chocolate drizzles and colorful sprinkles for a delightful visual spread.
  • Kid-Friendly Treat Station: Set up a fun DIY dessert area where children can decorate their own marshmallow balls with different toppings like crushed nuts or mini chocolate chips.
  • Gourmet Gift Packaging: Wrap individual Rice Krispie balls in clear cellophane with ribbons, making perfect homemade gifts for birthdays, holidays, or special celebrations.
  • Afternoon Tea Companion: Serve these sweet bites alongside hot cocoa, coffee, or tea for a delectable mid-day snack that adds a playful touch to your refreshment moment.

Tips for Storing Marshmallow Krispie Treats

  • Place Rice Krispie balls in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  • Wrap individual balls in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 2 months without losing texture or flavor.
  • Store in a sealed container away from direct sunlight and heat. Consume within 2-3 days for best taste and freshness.
  • Gently warm in microwave for 5-10 seconds or let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to restore soft caramel consistency.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of marshmallows?

Yes, you can use regular or jumbo marshmallows. Just ensure they’re fresh and not stale for the best texture and flavor.

  • How do I prevent the caramel from burning?

Stir constantly and keep the heat at medium. If the mixture starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat and continue stirring to maintain a smooth consistency.

  • Is this recipe kid-friendly to make?

Absolutely! Kids can help roll marshmallows in cereal, but adult supervision is needed when handling hot caramel mixture. It’s a fun, simple recipe for family cooking.

  • What if my caramel becomes too thick?

If the caramel thickens before coating, add a small amount of milk or cream and reheat gently while stirring to restore its smooth, dippable consistency.

Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls—The Fun Snack Everyone Loves

  • Conquer Effortless Treat: Whip up these delightful marshmallow rice krispie balls with minimal cooking skills, perfect for beginners wanting to impress friends and family.
  • Create Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: These sweet bites combine classic caramel, marshmallow, and crispy textures that appeal to both kids and adults, making them ideal for gatherings and parties.
  • Master Quick Snack Solution: Prepare these no-bake treats in just a few simple steps, requiring minimal ingredients and equipment, which means less cleanup and more enjoyment.
  • Customize Flavor Adventure: Experiment with different cereal coatings or drizzle chocolate for a personalized twist, allowing creativity and fun in the kitchen.
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Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Recipe

Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Recipe


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4.7 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Delightful marshmallow rice krispie balls offer a playful twist on classic treats, blending childhood nostalgia with irresistible sweetness. Crispy, gooey spheres of pure joy invite you to indulge in a simple yet satisfying snack that sparks instant happiness.


Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients:

  • 7 cups rice krispies cereal
  • 14 ounces (397 grams) sweetened condensed milk
  • 14 ounces (397 grams) caramels
  • 12 large marshmallows

Coating and Binding Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons butter

Preparation Ingredients:

(None additional)


Instructions

  1. Unwrap caramel pieces and combine with sweetened condensed milk and butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Stir the mixture continuously until it transforms into a smooth, glossy caramel sauce, approximately 5-7 minutes.
  3. Pierce each marshmallow with a toothpick or wooden skewer, creating a handle for dipping.
  4. Carefully immerse each marshmallow into the warm caramel mixture, ensuring complete and uniform coverage.
  5. Allow excess caramel to drip off each marshmallow, creating a thin, even layer.
  6. Pour Rice Krispies cereal into a wide, shallow dish, preparing for coating.
  7. Gently roll each caramel-covered marshmallow in the cereal, pressing lightly to ensure thorough adherence.
  8. Transfer coated marshmallows to a parchment-lined baking sheet, delicately removing the toothpicks.
  9. Let the Rice Krispie balls rest at room temperature for 30 minutes, allowing the caramel to set and the coating to stabilize.
  10. Serve and enjoy these decadent, crunchy-sweet treats immediately or store in an airtight container.

Notes

  • Prep Tip Use room temperature marshmallows for easier coating and smoother caramel adhesion.
  • Texture Trick Crush Rice Krispies slightly for a more compact and crunchier exterior layer.
  • Variation Option Drizzle melted chocolate over completed balls for extra decadent flavor complexity.
  • Storage Strategy Store in airtight container at room temperature for maximum freshness, consuming within 2-3 days for optimal taste and texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Coating
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 293
  • Sugar: 39 g
  • Sodium: 127 mg
  • Fat: 6 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 56 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 14 mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

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