Mint Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines nostalgia with a refreshing twist, these Mint Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats are just what you need! Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, they bring a pop of color and flavor to any occasion. The light green color and minty taste make them a fun addition to holidays like St. Patrick’s Day or the 4th of July, but honestly, they’re great anytime you want a sweet snack. Plus, they are so easy to make that the kids can help out in the kitchen!

These treats are not only delicious but also offer a wonderful combination of textures. The crunch of the Rice Krispies perfectly contrasts with the gooeyness of the melted marshmallows, while the mini chocolate chips add bursts of chocolaty goodness. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to keep this recipe close!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these treats in no time.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Kids love both making and eating these colorful snacks!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party or just a cozy movie night at home, these treats fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: They store well, so you can prepare them ahead of time for your next gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these Mint Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats. You probably have most of them in your pantry already!

For the Treats

• 4 2/3 cups Rice Krispies Cereal
• 4 tablespoons salted butter
• 10 ounces vegan marshmallows
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• green food coloring (about 10 drops of liquid coloring)
• 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these Mint Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats.

• Change the Flavor: Instead of mint extract, try using another extract like almond or vanilla for a different flavor profile.
• Add Nuts: For a crunchy twist, throw in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts.
• Mix in Dried Fruits: Adding dried cranberries or cherries can give your treats a fruity kick.
• Use Different Cereal: Swap out Rice Krispies for another cereal like Cocoa Puffs for extra chocolatey goodness.

How to Make Mint Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Prepare Your Bowl

Start by greasing a large mixing bowl with butter or spraying it with cooking spray. This step is crucial because it will help prevent the sticky mixture from sticking to your bowl later on.

Step 2: Measure Your Cereal

Pour the Rice Krispies Cereal into the greased bowl and set it aside. This way, everything is ready when you need it!

Step 3: Melt the Butter

In a medium-large saucepan over low heat, melt your salted butter. This gentle heat prevents burning and helps ensure that your marshmallows melt smoothly.

Step 4: Add Vegan Marshmallows

Stir in the vegan marshmallows until they are well-coated with butter. Keep stirring occasionally as they begin melting; it’s all about patience here!

Step 5: Melt Marshmallows Completely

Continue heating until about three-quarters of the marshmallows have melted. Then remove your pan from heat and keep stirring until all marshmallows are melted completely. This ensures a nice gooey texture throughout your treats.

Step 6: Flavor It Up!

Now, stir in the peppermint extract and green food coloring. The food coloring gives these treats their festive hue while adding an extra layer of minty freshness.

Step 7: Combine with Cereal

Pour your melted marshmallow mixture over the Rice Krispies Cereal and gently toss to coat every piece evenly. Take care not to crush them too much; we want that delightful crunch!

Step 8: Cool Down

Let this mixture cool for about 5-8 minutes until it’s comfortable to touch. This cooling time is essential so that when you press it into your pan later, it holds together nicely.

Step 9: Add Chocolate Chips

Reserve about three tablespoons of mini chocolate chips for topping later on. Toss the remaining chips into your cereal mixture and stir until well combined.

Step 10: Spread into Pan

Spread the mixture evenly into a well-buttered 8-inch pan. Using damp hands can help smooth it out without sticking too much!

Step 11: Top with Chocolate Chips

Sprinkle those reserved mini chocolate chips on top and gently press them into the surface using a spatula or spoon. This adds little pockets of sweetness right on top!

Step 12: Let Them Set

Allow your treats to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This waiting period helps them firm up so they cut beautifully later on.

Step 13: Cut and Serve

Once cooled, remove them from the pan and cut into squares. Enjoy these Mint Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats with friends and family—they’re sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Mint Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats

Making these delightful treats is a breeze, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your dessert game to the next level!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegan marshmallows and butter will enhance the flavor and texture of your treats. Quality ingredients always make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Don’t Overheat the Marshmallows: Heating the vegan marshmallows just until they melt ensures they remain gooey and sticky. Overheating can lead to a tough texture, making it harder for the treats to hold together.
• Press Firmly but Gently: When spreading the mixture into the pan, press down gently but firmly to avoid crushing the Rice Krispies. This helps maintain that delightful crunch while ensuring everything sticks together.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing your treats to cool fully before cutting them into squares ensures they hold their shape and makes for cleaner edges.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to play around with different extracts or add-ins! A dash of vanilla or a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies can add an extra layer of flavor and holiday cheer.

How to Serve Mint Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats

Serving these minty delights is all about presentation and pairing! Here are some fun ideas to make your treats shine at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Crushed Peppermint Candy: Sprinkling some crushed peppermint candy on top not only adds a festive touch but also enhances that minty flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A quick drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate can turn your treats into an eye-catching dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on the side adds a creamy contrast that complements the sweet minty flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a light and healthy contrast to the rich sweetness of the Rice Krispie treats.
• Veggie Platter with Hummus: Crisp veggies paired with hummus offer a savory balance, making it perfect for gatherings where guests might crave something crunchy and nutritious.
• Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These sweet bites are always a hit and complement the mint chocolate theme while adding a touch of elegance to your dessert table.
• Iced Herbal Tea: A chilled herbal tea infused with mint or citrus can be a refreshing beverage choice that pairs well with these treats, keeping things light and vibrant.

Now that you have all these tips for making, serving, and enjoying Mint Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats, I hope you feel inspired to whip up this delightful dessert for your next gathering or cozy night in!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Mint Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance and enjoy them throughout the week or save them for special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Place the cooled treats in an airtight container at room temperature.
• For optimal freshness, consume within 3-5 days.
• If you notice they are getting a bit hard, you can place a slice of bread in the container to help maintain moisture.

Freezing

• Cut the treats into squares before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label the container!

Reheating

• While these treats are best enjoyed at room temperature, if you want to soften them slightly, you can microwave one square for about 10 seconds.
• Avoid overheating, as this can cause them to become too gooey.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Mint Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats.

Can I use different cereal for Mint Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats?

Yes! While Rice Krispies are traditional, you can experiment with other crispy cereals like Corn Pops or even gluten-free options. Just ensure they have a similar texture.

How long do Mint Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Mint Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats will stay fresh for 3-5 days at room temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing them.

Are there any alternatives to vegan marshmallows for this recipe?

If you can’t find vegan marshmallows, you could make your own using aquafaba or look for other plant-based options available in stores.

Can I add more flavors to my Mint Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding crushed candies, nuts, or even swapping out the mint extract for another flavor like almond or vanilla.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Mint Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats! They’re not only fun to prepare but also bring a smile with each delicious bite. Whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or keeping them all to yourself (no judgment here!), I’m sure they’ll be a hit. Happy cooking and enjoy every moment of this sweet treat adventure!