Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy No-Bake Dessert – Perfect for when you want a quick and simple treat without turning on the oven.
• Perfect Flavor Combo – The sweetness of cherries, the crunch of Rice Krispies, and the richness of chocolate make every bite delicious.
• Great for Holidays & Parties – These treats are eye-catching and can be decorated with sprinkles for a festive touch.
• Kid-Friendly & Fun to Make – A great recipe to make with kids, as it involves simple steps and delicious results.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Rice Krispies Layer:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 (10 oz.) bag mini marshmallows
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped (pat dry with paper towels)

For the Chocolate Coating:

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling)

Directions

Prepare the Rice Krispies Base:

1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and salt, stirring constantly until completely melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the Rice Krispies cereal and gently fold until evenly coated. Carefully fold in the chopped maraschino cherries until well distributed.
5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it down evenly with a spatula or your hands (lightly buttered to prevent sticking).
6. Let the treats set at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

Prepare the Chocolate Coating:

7. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth.

Dip the Treats:

8. Dip each Rice Krispies square halfway into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.
9. Place the dipped treats onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let the chocolate set.
10. (Optional) Melt the white chocolate chips in a separate bowl and drizzle over the chocolate-covered treats for a decorative finish.
11. Allow the chocolate to fully harden before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 16 squares
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Setting Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Calories per serving: 220 kcal

Variations

• Use Dark Chocolate – Swap semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer taste.
• Add Nuts – Stir in chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Flavor Boost – Add a splash of almond extract for a nuttier flavor.
• Festive Touch – Use colored sprinkles or edible glitter before the chocolate sets for a holiday-themed dessert.
• Different Fruits – Try using dried cherries or freeze-dried raspberries instead of maraschino cherries.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep in the fridge for up to a week, but let them sit at room temperature before serving to soften.
• Freezing: Wrap each square in parchment paper and place in a sealed container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.

FAQs

How do I prevent the treats from getting soggy?

Pat the maraschino cherries completely dry with paper towels before adding them to the mixture.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?

Yes, but make sure they are pitted, chopped, and dried thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate as the coating.

What can I use instead of coconut oil?

Vegetable oil or butter works just as well to help smooth out the melted chocolate.

Can I make these treats in advance?

Yes! These treats can be made a day or two ahead and stored in an airtight container.

How do I get clean cuts when slicing the treats?

Use a sharp knife and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray before cutting.

Can I skip the chocolate coating?

Yes, they taste great on their own, but the chocolate adds an extra layer of deliciousness.

How can I make them extra festive?

Top the chocolate coating with sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or a drizzle of white chocolate.

Can I use marshmallow fluff instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the amount slightly to match the consistency of melted marshmallows.

Why are my Rice Krispies treats too hard?

Pressing the mixture too firmly into the pan can make them dense. Lightly press to keep them soft and chewy.

Conclusion

Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are a fun, easy, and delicious no-bake dessert that combines classic flavors in a new way. Whether you’re making them for a party, a holiday, or just a sweet treat, they’re sure to be a hit. Try different variations, get creative with toppings, and enjoy every chocolate-covered bite!

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