Description
These Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful twist on the classic snack, combining the rich flavors of hot chocolate with the crispy texture of Rice Krispies. Made by melting butter, milk chocolate, and hot chocolate mix with marshmallows, then mixed with cereal and mini marshmallows, this treat is perfect for cozy gatherings or festive occasions. Topped with optional chocolate sprinkles, candy canes, and more, they offer a fun and delicious way to enjoy a nostalgic favorite with a chocolatey upgrade.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- ½ cup butter
- ½ cup milk chocolate chips
- ½ cup hot chocolate mix
- 1 bag marshmallows (10 ounces, about 40 large marshmallows)
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- â…“ cup mini marshmallows
Toppings (Optional)
- Chocolate sprinkles
- Mini marshmallows
- Mini chocolate chips
- Dehydrated marshmallows
- Crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9″x13″ baking tray with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking later on.
- Melt Butter: Place a large pot on low heat and melt the ½ cup butter slowly, ensuring it does not burn.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in ½ cup milk chocolate chips and continue stirring until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Mix Hot Chocolate: Add ½ cup hot chocolate mix to the melted chocolate and butter mixture, stirring until fully combined for that rich hot cocoa flavor.
- Melt Marshmallows: Add the entire bag of large marshmallows (10 oz) and stir continuously until the marshmallows are fully melted and incorporated evenly into the mixture.
- Combine with Cereal: Remove the pot from heat, then pour in 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal. Gently mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until all the cereal is coated evenly in the marshmallow mixture. Tip: Lightly spray the spatula with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Add Mini Marshmallows: Fold in â…“ cup mini marshmallows gently. Some will melt slightly while others remain whole, adding texture and visual appeal.
- Transfer to Pan: Spread the cereal mixture into an even layer in the prepared pan. Press down lightly to create a uniform layer, but avoid packing too tightly to keep the treats light and chewy.
- Decorate: Sprinkle the top with your choice of mini marshmallows, chocolate sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, dehydrated marshmallows, crushed candy canes, or any candies you prefer. Press them gently to make sure they stick.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes until set. Slice into 18 to 24 squares and serve.
Notes
- Using cooking spray on your spatula helps prevent the sticky mixture from clinging to your utensils.
- Do not press the mixture down too firmly to keep the treats light and crispy.
- Customize toppings as desired to add texture and festive flair.
- Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure Rice Krispies cereal is labeled gluten-free.
