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Easy Christmas Rice Krispie Treats with M&Ms

Christmas Rice Krispie Treats with M&Ms - featured image

These ridiculously simple, kid-approved Christmas Rice Krispie Treats with M&Ms are the perfect last-minute holiday treat. Made with just a few pantry staples, they’re soft, chewy, and festive—ideal for school parties, cookie swaps, or a quick holiday dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 package (10 oz) marshmallows
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup Christmas M&Ms (divided: 3/4 cup for mixing, 1/4 cup for topping)
  • 1/4 cup sprinkles (optional)
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving about 2 inches of overhang on two opposite sides. Lightly grease the parchment with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. Pour 6 cups of Rice Krispies into a large bowl and set aside.
  3. In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Swirl occasionally until fully liquid and just starting to bubble around the edges.
  4. Add the entire 10-ounce bag of marshmallows. Stir constantly until completely melted and smooth, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
  5. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
  6. Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the Rice Krispies. Gently fold together using a folding motion until the cereal is coated but still crunchy, about 1-2 minutes.
  7. Sprinkle in 3/4 cup of Christmas M&Ms and fold gently just until distributed.
  8. Scrape the mixture into the prepared pan. Lightly butter your hands or a spatula, then press the mixture evenly into the pan without smashing it down hard.
  9. While the treats are still warm, press the reserved 1/4 cup M&Ms into the top.
  10. Allow the treats to cool completely at room temperature, about 30-45 minutes.
  11. Once cooled, lift the whole block out using the parchment overhang. Place on a cutting board and cut into squares using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.

Notes

Low and slow melting prevents burnt marshmallow. Butter your tools to prevent sticking. Don’t overmix to keep cereal crunchy. Let treats cool at room temperature, not in the fridge, for best texture. Treats stay fresh for up to 5 days in an airtight container at room temperature, or freeze for up to a month.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas Rice Krispie treats, M&M treats, holiday dessert, easy no-bake dessert, kid-friendly Christmas recipe