Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Introduction

These Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats are a fun and delicious twist on the classic snack, blending the rich flavors of hot cocoa with the familiar crunch of Cocoa Krispies. Perfect for cozy afternoons or holiday gatherings, they bring a comforting treat that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.

Ingredients

• 8 tablespoons salted butter
• ½ cup hot cocoa powder mix
• 10 cups mini marshmallows, divided
• 9 cups Cocoa Krispies Cereal
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup dehydrated marshmallows
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray; set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large pot, melt the butter, hot cocoa powder, and 8 cups of mini marshmallows while stirring continuously with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until the marshmallows have melted completely.
3. Step 3: Remove the pot from heat, then add the Cocoa Krispies, vanilla extract, and the remaining 2 cups of marshmallows. Stir until the cereal is evenly coated.
4. Step 4: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Place another piece of parchment paper on top and gently press the mixture into the pan—avoid pressing too hard to keep the treats chewy.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle dehydrated marshmallows, mini chocolate chips, and sprinkles on top, then lightly press them in.
6. Step 6: Let the treats cool for about 20 minutes before removing from the pan and slicing into 24 pieces.

Tips & Variations

• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and to keep your hands clean while pressing the treats.
• Avoid pressing too hard when shaping the treats to maintain their chewy texture.
• Choose salted butter for a perfectly balanced flavor, or use unsalted butter with an added pinch of salt if preferred.
• Add vanilla extract to enhance the marshmallow flavor and elevate the overall taste.
• Reserve some marshmallows to mix in last, creating pockets of gooey marshmallow goodness throughout.
• Slice the treats just before serving to keep edges soft and fresh.

Storage

Store leftover treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For best texture, reheat briefly in the microwave to soften before serving if desired.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular Rice Krispies cereal instead of Cocoa Krispies?

Yes, you can substitute regular Rice Krispies, but the flavor will be less chocolaty. For the best hot chocolate experience, Cocoa Krispies are recommended.

How can I make these treats vegan?

Use a dairy-free butter substitute and choose vegan marshmallows to make this recipe vegan-friendly. Make sure the hot cocoa mix is also free of animal products.

Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.6 from 148 reviews

These Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful twist on the classic treat, infused with rich cocoa powder and topped with mini chocolate chips, dehydrated marshmallows, and sprinkles. Perfectly chewy with pockets of gooey marshmallow, these treats make a fun and festive dessert or snack for any occasion.

• Author: Nethan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 24 pieces 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base Ingredients

• 8 tablespoons salted butter
• ½ cup hot cocoa powder mix
• 10 cups mini marshmallows, divided
• 9 cups Cocoa Krispies Cereal
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings

• ¼ cup dehydrated marshmallows
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking spray. Set aside to ensure easy removal of treats later.
2. Melt the Mixture: In a large pot, melt together the butter, hot cocoa powder mix, and 8 cups of mini marshmallows over low to medium heat. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth.
3. Add Cereal and Remaining Marshmallows: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the Cocoa Krispies cereal, vanilla extract, and the remaining 2 cups of mini marshmallows until all cereal is evenly coated with the chocolate-marshmallow mixture.
4. Transfer and Press: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Place another piece of parchment paper on top and gently press the mixture evenly into the pan, being careful not to press too hard to maintain chewy texture.
5. Add Toppings: Sprinkle dehydrated marshmallows, mini chocolate chips, and optional sprinkles on top. Lightly press them into the surface to help them adhere.
6. Cool and Slice: Let the treats cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Once set, remove from the pan using the parchment paper and slice into 24 square pieces just before serving to prevent them from drying out.

Notes

• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and keep your hands clean while pressing the mixture.
• Don’t press the mixture too hard to ensure treats remain chewy rather than hard.
• Salted butter adds a nice savory contrast; you can substitute unsalted butter and add salt if preferred.
• Adding vanilla extract enhances the marshmallow flavor making the treats more delicious.
• Reserve some marshmallows to mix in with the cereal to create melty pockets throughout the treats.
• Slice treats just before serving to keep edges soft and moist.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats, Cocoa Krispies, marshmallow treats, chocolate treats, dessert bars, holiday treats, easy no-bake dessert