With a gooey blend of melted marshmallows, cocoa powder, and a touch of vanilla extract, these Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats take the classic treat to a whole new level. They're super easy to whip up too!
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Check out my Reindeer Rice Krispie Treats and my Halloween Rice Krispies Treats for more Rice Krispie recipes!
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Are you ready for a mouthwatering treat that combines the best of both worlds? Look no further than these chocolate rice krispie treats. These treats are quick and easy to make!
They're great as an after school snack or a party dessert and are guaranteed to bring joy and smiles to everyone who tries them.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- If you're a chocolate lover, this recipe is a dream come true. The addition of cocoa powder gives these treats a rich, deep chocolate flavor.
- You won't believe how simple it is to make these treats.
- Whether you're serving them at a party or sharing them with friends and family, these chocolate rice krispie treats are guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Rice Krispies Cereal: Adds the iconic crispy texture to these treats.
- Marshmallows: The magic ingredient that holds everything together.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds a deep, rich flavor and a beautiful dark color to the treats.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Added to enhance the flavor and provide a subtle sweetness.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter and set aside.
Step 2: In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat.
Step 3: Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth.
Step 4: Stir in the cocoa powder and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 5: Remove the pot from heat and add the rice krispies cereal.
Step 6: Stir until the cereal is fully coated in the chocolate mixture.
Step 7: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press down firmly with a spatula to create an even layer.
Step 8: Let cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.
NOTE: You can print the FULL recipe with all ingredients & detailed instructions below!
Expert Tips
- Use Fresh Marshmallows: Fresh marshmallows will melt more easily and result in a smoother, more consistent mixture.
- Melt Butter & Marshmallows Slowly: When melting the butter and marshmallows, use low heat and stir constantly to prevent burning.
- Press Firmly: Use a spatula or your hands to press the mixture firmly into the baking dish.
- Let Them Cool Completely: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
Variations
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats: Add a tablespoon or two of creamy peanut butter to the melted marshmallow mixture. Stir it in until well combined before adding the rice krispies cereal.
- Mint Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the melted marshmallow mixture along with the cocoa powder and vanilla extract.
- Salted Caramel Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the pressed treats and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel.
- S'mores Rice Krispie Treats: Stir in a handful of mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers into the rice krispies cereal before adding it to the melted marshmallow mixture.
Storing & Freezing
Storing: Allow the treats to cool completely at room temperature before storing them. Place them in an airtight container or airtight plastic bag. Properly stored, the treats can last for several days.
Freezing: Wrap the treats tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place in a freezer safe container or sealable freezer bag. Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Thawing: Remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour.
Recipe FAQ's
Yes, you can substitute Rice Krispies cereal with chocolate-flavored cereal, such as Cocoa Krispies or Chocolate Rice Chex.
Greasing the baking dish with cooking spray or butter before pressing the mixture in will help prevent sticking. You can also line the pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang, which will make it easier to remove the treats from the pan once cooled.
Yes, you can melt the marshmallows and butter together in the microwave. Use a microwave safe bowl and heat in 30 second intervals, stirring well after each interval until the marshmallows and butter are melted and smooth.
While storing rice krispie treats in the refrigerator is possible, it may make them slightly harder and less chewy.
More Treats Recipes You'll Love
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Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats
Ingredients
- 6 cups rice krispies cereal
- 10 ounces marshmallows
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth.
- Stir in the cocoa powder and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Remove the pot from heat and add the rice krispies cereal.
- Stir until the cereal is fully coated in the chocolate mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press down firmly with a spatula to create an even layer.
- Let cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- Use Fresh Marshmallows: Fresh marshmallows will melt more easily and result in a smoother, more consistent mixture.
- Melt Butter & Marshmallows Slowly: When melting the butter and marshmallows, use low heat and stir constantly to prevent burning.
- Press Firmly: Use a spatula or your hands to press the mixture firmly into the baking dish.
- Let Them Cool Completely: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
- Storing: Allow the treats to cool completely at room temperature before storing them. Place them in an airtight container or airtight plastic bag. Properly stored, the treats can last for several days.
- Freezing: Wrap the treats tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place in a freezer safe container or sealable freezer bag. Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Thawing: Remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour.
Nutrition
All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered estimates. Actual nutritional content will vary with brands used, measuring methods, portion sizes and more.
Enjoy!
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