Easy One Pan Baked Rice Krispy Treats Recipe

Name: Easy One Pan Baked Rice Krispy Treats
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 80 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 6 Tablespoons butter, cut in 6-8 pieces; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 9-ounce box crispy rice cereal; 16 ounces jumbo marshmallows

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was created for its original yield. While ingredient amounts scale automatically, cooking times and steps remain the same. Not all recipes scale perfectly.

6 tablespoons butter, cut into 6-8 pieces
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (9 ounce) box crispy rice cereal
16 ounces jumbo marshmallows

Original yield: 12 servings

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350F (180C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Place the butter pieces evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish. Pour in the vanilla extract, then scatter the marshmallows over the butter.
Gently layer the crispy rice cereal over the marshmallows, ensuring even coverage.
Bake in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes, until the marshmallows have melted and the top is lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and carefully stir the mixture until it is fully combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the baking dish and let it cool for 1 hour, allowing it to set completely.
Lightly grease a knife and cut the treat into 12-16 squares, depending on your preferred size.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 258
Total Fat: 6g (8% DV)
Saturated Fat: 4g (18% DV)
Cholesterol: 15mg (5% DV)
Sodium: 77mg (3% DV)
Total Carbohydrate: 50g (18% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 0g (1% DV)
Total Sugars: 22g
Protein: 2g (4% DV)
Vitamin C: 0mg (0% DV)
Calcium: 4mg (0% DV)
Iron: 7mg (38% DV)
Potassium: 28mg (1% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary. Nutrient data is based on available information and may not reflect all ingredients.

**If you follow a medically restrictive diet, consult a doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

The Story Behind Rice Krispy Treats

Rice Krispy Treats, a beloved American snack, trace their origin to the early 1930s. The iconic combination of crispy rice cereal and melted marshmallows was first popularized as a promotional recipe by the Kellogg Company, designed to encourage sales of their rice cereal. Originally crafted as a simple no-bake treat for children and families, it quickly became a staple in American homes. The ease of preparation and minimal ingredients contributed to its widespread appeal, making it a symbol of convenient, nostalgic comfort food.

Regional Variations

While the classic version is most common in the United States, regional twists have emerged over time. In some areas, bakers add chocolate or peanut butter layers, while others incorporate colorful sprinkles or dried fruits to appeal to local tastes. In Hawaii, for example, treats may include macadamia nuts or tropical fruit bits. Each variation reflects local ingredients and flavor preferences, giving the simple recipe a diverse cultural footprint despite its American origins.

How It Differs from Similar Desserts

Rice Krispy Treats are often compared to other marshmallow-based confections like smores or nougat bars, but they stand out due to their distinct texture and preparation method. Unlike smores, which are usually roasted over a fire and feature chocolate and graham crackers, Rice Krispy Treats are soft yet crisp, combining chewy marshmallows with crunchy rice cereal. They also differ from nougat bars in their simplicity; Rice Krispy Treats require only a few ingredients and no specialized equipment, making them accessible to virtually anyone.

Typical Serving Occasions

These treats are commonly served at parties, school events, bake sales, and holiday gatherings. Their bright appearance and easy-to-hold squares make them ideal for casual snacking and family-friendly celebrations. Many households prepare them during Halloween or Christmas, often customizing the colors and shapes to match the season. Additionally, their portability makes them a popular addition to lunchboxes or picnic baskets.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Interestingly, Rice Krispy Treats were originally called "Kellogg's Rice Krispies Treats," and the recipe was published on the back of cereal boxes. The sound the cereal makessnap, crackle, and popwas also leveraged in marketing campaigns, creating an instantly recognizable sensory connection. Over time, the dessert has been adapted into cakes, cupcakes, and even ice cream bars, demonstrating its versatility. Despite these modern twists, the classic one-pan baked version retains its nostalgic charm, offering both simplicity and a hint of golden caramelized marshmallow flavor when baked to perfection.

FAQ about Easy One Pan Baked Rice Krispy Treats Recipe

Store cooled treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, though they may become slightly firmer.

Yes. Wrap squares individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 6 weeks. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Avoid overbaking the marshmallows and make sure to press the mixture gently into the pan instead of compacting it too firmly. Adding a piece of bread to the storage container can also help retain moisture.

Yes. These treats can be prepared a day in advance. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container until serving.

Yes. You can substitute mini marshmallows. Measure by weight (16 ounces) rather than volume to keep proportions accurate.

It is not required if you grease the dish well, but parchment paper can make removing and slicing the treats easier.

Yes. Stir in chocolate chips, sprinkles, or crushed candy after mixing the marshmallows and cereal. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding chocolate to prevent melting.

They may have been baked too long or the mixture may have been pressed too firmly into the pan. For softer treats, bake only until the marshmallows are melted and lightly browned.

Yes, but use a larger baking dish or two 9x13-inch pans. Cooking time remains the same as long as the layer is not thicker.

Allow at least 1 hour at room temperature. If you're in a hurry, refrigerating for 20–30 minutes will speed up the process.