Description of this recipe
These Reindeer Rice Krispie Treats are a festive and fun twist on the classic dessert, perfect for holiday parties, school events, or a delightful family activity. These treats are not only adorable but also incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal baking skills and readily available ingredients. They combine the familiar crunch of Rice Krispies with the sweetness of marshmallows and the added flair of chocolate pretzels and colorful candies, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike. This recipe offers a creative way to engage children in the kitchen, allowing them to decorate their own reindeer and express their artistic talents.
Why you will love this recipe
You will love these Reindeer Rice Krispie Treats for their simplicity and festive charm. They are a delightful way to spread holiday cheer and create lasting memories. The recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for personalization with different candies, sprinkles, and even different types of pretzels. These treats are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a standout addition to any holiday dessert table. They are also a great option for those who prefer no-bake desserts, requiring only a few minutes on the stovetop and some creative assembly.
Ingredients:
- 6 tablespoons margarine, divided into 4 tablespoons and 2 tablespoons
- 10 ounces marshmallows (40 marshmallows or 5½ cups mini marshmallows)
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 2 ounces white almond bark
- 16 chocolate-covered pretzels
- 1 red M&M, for Rudolph’s nose
- 7 brown M&M’s
- 16 candy eyes
- Colorful sprinkles, for “hair”
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Use your hands to spread 2 tablespoons of the margarine around a 10-inch springform pan. This ensures that the Rice Krispie mixture doesn’t stick to the pan, making it easier to remove the treats later. You can also place a parchment paper circle on top of the buttered bottom of the springform pan for extra protection. This step is not strictly necessary, but it can make the removal process even smoother.
Step 2: Melt the Margarine and Marshmallows
Add the remaining 4 tablespoons of margarine to a 5 to 6-quart heavy-bottomed stock pot and melt the margarine over medium-high heat. Using a heavy-bottomed pot helps to distribute the heat evenly, preventing the margarine from burning. Once the margarine is completely melted, add the marshmallows and stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted. Continuous stirring is essential to prevent the marshmallows from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning. Ensure the marshmallows are fully melted for the best texture in your Rice Krispie Treats; incompletely melted marshmallows can cause the Rice Krispies to lose their crunch.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the Rice Krispies. Continue to stir until the Rice Krispies are completely incorporated and evenly coated with the melted marshmallow mixture. This step requires some arm strength, so make sure to mix thoroughly to ensure every piece of cereal is covered. A well-mixed batter will result in a cohesive and evenly textured treat.
Step 4: Press into Pan
Pour the marshmallow Rice Krispies into the prepared pan. Gently press the marshmallow Rice Krispies down to ensure a level surface. You can use a spatula or your hands (lightly buttered or sprayed with cooking spray) to press the mixture evenly into the pan. This will create a uniform thickness and ensure that the treats hold their shape when cut. Allow the Rice Krispies to cool for 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 5: Cut and Decorate
Once the Rice Krispies are cooled, place a large cutting board on top of the pan. Flip the pan over and release and carefully remove the sides and bottom of the springform pan. Use a large sharp knife to cut/divide the circle of treats in half. Then divide that circle in half. Slice the 4 triangles like you would slice a piece of pie. Add the 2 ounces of white almond bark to a small heat-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until melted and smooth. On the top 2 corners of each triangle, dab a small dot of the melted almond bark. Lay 1 of the chocolate-covered pretzels on each dot. In the center of the triangle, dab 2 dots of the almond bark. Place the eyes on the dabs. At the point of the triangle, dab another dot for the nose (either the brown or red m&m). In between the chocolate-covered pretzels, dab a final dot of almond bark for the colorful sprinkles of your choice. Allow the reindeer to dry completely before serving.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these Reindeer Rice Krispie Treats at holiday parties.
- Pack them in lunchboxes for a festive surprise.
- Offer them as a homemade gift to friends and neighbors.
- Serve with a glass of cold milk or hot cocoa.
- Arrange them on a dessert platter alongside other holiday treats.
Tips:
- Use fresh marshmallows for the best texture. Stale marshmallows don’t melt as smoothly.
- Don’t overcook the marshmallows, as this can make the treats hard.
- Butter your hands or spatula to prevent the Rice Krispie mixture from sticking.
- Store the treats in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- Get creative with your decorations! Use different colored M&M’s, sprinkles, or even edible glitter.
- If you don’t have a springform pan, you can use a regular baking pan lined with parchment paper.
- For a richer flavor, use salted butter instead of margarine.
- Make sure the melted almond bark is smooth and not too hot before using it to attach the decorations.
- If you’re making these with kids, prepare all the ingredients and decorations ahead of time to make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
- To add a hint of peppermint flavor, mix a few drops of peppermint extract into the melted marshmallow mixture.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
25 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: 250 kcal
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
These Reindeer Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful and festive addition to any holiday celebration. Easy to make and fun to decorate, they are perfect for creating memorable moments with family and friends. Whether you’re attending a holiday party, packing lunchboxes, or simply looking for a sweet treat to enjoy at home, these reindeer will bring a smile to everyone’s face. So gather your ingredients, put on some holiday music, and get ready to spread some cheer with these adorable and delicious Reindeer Rice Krispie Treats. Enjoy the process, get creative with your decorations, and savor the joy of sharing these treats with your loved ones. Happy holidays!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of cereal instead of Rice Krispies?
A: While Rice Krispies provide the classic texture and crunch, you can experiment with other cereals such as Cocoa Krispies for a chocolatey twist or Frosted Flakes for added sweetness. Keep in mind that different cereals may alter the overall texture and flavor of the treats, so adjust the marshmallow ratio accordingly.
Q2: How do I prevent the Rice Krispie Treats from becoming too hard?
A: The key to preventing hard Rice Krispie Treats is to avoid overcooking the marshmallows. Melt them gently over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until just melted. Overcooked marshmallows become hard and brittle when cooled, resulting in a tough texture. Additionally, use fresh marshmallows, as stale ones don’t melt as smoothly.
Q3: Can I make these treats ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make these treats a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness and prevent them from becoming stale. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as this can make them hard and dry.
Q4: What can I use if I don’t have almond bark?
A: If you don’t have almond bark, you can substitute it with white chocolate chips or candy melts. Melt them in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth and creamy. Ensure the melted chocolate is not too hot before using it to attach the decorations.
Q5: How can I make these treats gluten-free?
A: To make these treats gluten-free, ensure that you use gluten-free Rice Krispies cereal. Many brands offer gluten-free versions, but always check the packaging to confirm. All other ingredients in the recipe are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy these treats without worrying about gluten content.
