These Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats are a fun twist on the classic snack! With tasty pumpkin flavor and a hint of spices, they’re perfect for fall.
Making these is super easy! Just mix melted marshmallows, butter, Rice Krispies, and pumpkin puree. I love them as a sweet treat while watching Halloween movies! 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice Krispies Cereal: This classic cereal provides the crunch. If you can’t find Rice Krispies, use a similar puffed rice cereal or even a crispy corn cereal for the same texture.
Mini Marshmallows: These are essential for the gooey factor! You can use regular marshmallows, but make sure to cut them into smaller pieces to melt evenly. For a vegan option, try using plant-based marshmallows.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree works best for this recipe. If you have fresh pumpkin, you can roast and puree it, but make sure to drain any excess moisture. This adds great flavor and color!
Pumpkin Pie Spice: You can easily make your own mix by combining cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. If you want to skip the spices, a little cinnamon can still enhance the flavor.
Food Coloring: This is optional, but it helps give that vibrant pumpkin color. If you prefer, you can use natural food coloring for a cleaner option.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture in Rice Krispie Treats?
The texture can make or break your treats! Here’s how to ensure they turn out just right:
- When melting the butter and marshmallows, keep the heat low. This helps avoid burning and keeps things smooth.
- Be gentle when adding the Rice Krispies. Fold them in slowly to maintain their shape and crunch.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan but avoid packing it too tightly. Giving it a little air helps keep the treats soft and chewy.
- Let them cool completely before cutting. This allows them to set up properly and makes it easier to shape them.
By following these tips, you’ll have a delicious treat that’s sure to impress! Enjoy making your Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats!
How to Make Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Treats:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 10 oz (about 40) mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- Orange food coloring (optional)
For Decoration:
- Green frosting or green candy melts for pumpkin stems
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty treat takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 20-30 minutes to cool and set. So, in total, you should expect to spend around 45 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick fall snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pan:
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray. This ensures your treats won’t stick when it’s time to cut them later. Set the pan aside for now.
2. Melt the Butter:
In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. It’s important to keep the heat low to avoid burning the butter.
3. Add the Marshmallows:
Once the butter is melted, add the mini marshmallows to the pot. Stir continuously until the marshmallows melt completely and are smooth. This might take a couple of minutes!
4. Mix in the Pumpkin:
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice. If you’d like a brighter pumpkin color, add a few drops of orange food coloring and mix until everything is well combined.
5. Fold in the Rice Krispies:
Now it’s time to add the Rice Krispies cereal. Pour it into the pot and gently fold the mixture until all of the cereal is coated evenly. Be gentle, as you want to keep the rice crispy texture!
6. Press into the Pan:
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Using a buttered spatula or a piece of wax paper, press the mixture evenly into the pan. Let it cool for about 20-30 minutes until it sets up nicely.
7. Cut into Shapes:
Once the mixture has cooled, use a pumpkin-shaped cookie cutter or a round cutter to cut out the treats. If you don’t have a cookie cutter, simply cut them into squares or rectangles!
8. Decorate Your Treats:
Take the green frosting or melted green candy melts and pipe little stems on top of each treat to make them look like pumpkins. Get creative with your decorating!
9. Let Them Set:
Allow the decorations to set before serving your festive treats. Enjoy these delightful Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats with friends and family!
These fun and chewy treats are perfect for any fall celebration or a cozy night in. Happy snacking!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pumpkin Puree?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is a convenient and reliable option for this recipe. Just make sure to choose 100% pure pumpkin without any added spices or sugar for the best results.
What If I Don’t Have Pumpkin Pie Spice?
No worries! You can easily create your own by mixing equal parts cinnamon and nutmeg, with a pinch of ginger and allspice. Alternatively, just using cinnamon will still add delicious flavor to your treats.
How Do I Store Leftover Treats?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them, but the texture may change slightly.
Can I Make These Treats Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just check the label on your Rice Krispies and opt for a gluten-free version. Most brands offer gluten-free options that will work perfectly in this recipe.
