Cherry Rice Krispie Treats

Cherry Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Perfect for holidays or any time snacking, these no-bake treats combine the sweetness of cherries with the rich flavor of dark chocolate. They’re quick to make and sure to impress family and friends with their vibrant color and fun texture. Enjoy making these Cherry Rice Krispie Treats for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cherry and dark chocolate creates a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love.
• Versatile: Great for holidays, parties, or as an everyday snack, these treats fit any occasion.
• No-Bake Delight: With no baking required, you can enjoy these treats without turning on the oven.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve kids in the kitchen! They’ll love mixing and pressing the ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Cherry Rice Krispie Treats easier and more enjoyable. Gather your equipment before you start to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Spatula or greased wax paper
• 13×9 baking dish (or 9-inch square pan)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Essential for melting butter and marshmallows evenly without burning.
• Spatula or greased wax paper: Helps press the mixture firmly into the pan for perfectly shaped treats.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Necessary for quickly melting dark chocolate without fuss.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Cherry Rice Krispie Treats, gather the following ingredients:

For the Treat Mixture

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 16 ounces mini vegan marshmallows
• 1 ½ tablespoons cherry Vegan vegan gelatin powder (JELL-O, not sugar-free)

For the Topping

• 10 ounces Ghirardelli dark chocolate melting wafers
• Sprinkles (optional)

How to Make Cherry Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Melt Butter and Marshmallows

In a large saucepan, melt the 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter along with the 16 ounces of mini vegan marshmallows over low heat. Stir constantly until everything is fully melted and smooth.

Step 2: Add Cherry Gelatin Powder

Once melted, add in 1 ½ tablespoons of cherry Vegan vegan gelatin powder. Mix well until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine with Cereal

Gently fold in the 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal until all pieces are evenly coated with the mixture.

Step 4: Press into Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture into a buttered 13×9 baking dish or a greased 9-inch square pan if you prefer thicker treats. Use a greased piece of wax paper or spatula to press down firmly.

Step 5: Melt Dark Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the 10 ounces of dark chocolate wafers according to package instructions. Stir until smooth.

Step 6: Spread Chocolate Topping

Spread the melted dark chocolate evenly over the top of your pressed treat mixture.

Step 7: Set and Enjoy!

Allow the treats to set at room temperature for about one hour. Once set, cut them into squares and enjoy! Store any leftovers in a covered container.

How to Serve Cherry Rice Krispie Treats

Cherry Rice Krispie Treats are perfect for sharing and enjoying on various occasions. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a casual snack, these treats can be served in delightful ways.

Individual Squares

• Serve each square on a small dessert plate for a neat presentation.
• Perfect for parties where guests can grab their own treat.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange the squares on a large platter with other desserts.
• This creates an appealing spread that highlights your Cherry Rice Krispie Treats.

Party Favors

• Wrap individual squares in cellophane tied with a ribbon.
• Great as take-home treats for guests at a birthday or holiday party.

With Ice Cream

• Pair these treats with a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream.
• The combination offers a delicious contrast of textures and temperatures.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Add an extra layer by drizzling melted dark chocolate over the top.
• This enhances the flavor and makes them look even more tempting.

How to Perfect Cherry Rice Krispie Treats

To make sure your Cherry Rice Krispie Treats are the best they can be, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your marshmallows and butter are fresh for the best taste and texture.
• Melt slowly: Stir the butter and marshmallows over low heat to prevent burning and ensure even melting.
• Don’t pack too tightly: When pressing the mixture into the baking dish, gently press down to keep them chewy rather than hard.
• Let cool completely: Allow the treats to set at room temperature for about an hour before cutting to ensure clean squares.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Rice Krispie Treats

Pairing side dishes with Cherry Rice Krispie Treats can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the treats perfectly.

2. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
   These add an elegant touch and pair beautifully with the chocolate flavor of the treats.

3. Mini Cupcakes
   Offer assorted flavors for variety, making it a fun dessert table option alongside your treats.

4. Cheese Platter
   Include mild cheeses that offer a savory contrast to the sweetness of Cherry Rice Krispie Treats.

5. Yogurt Parfaits
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing side that balances sweetness.

6. Nut Mix
   Provide a selection of nuts for guests who may want something crunchy and savory alongside their sweet treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cherry Rice Krispie Treats, even a small mistake can affect the final outcome. Here are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skip measuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial for perfect treats. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts.
• Boldly rush the melting process: Melting marshmallows too quickly can lead to a lumpy mixture. Use low heat and stir constantly until smooth.
• Boldly forget to grease the pan: Not greasing the baking dish can result in sticky treats that are hard to remove. Use butter or cooking spray to coat the dish well.
• Boldly overmixing the cereal: Overmixing can crush the Rice Krispies, leading to dense treats. Gently fold in the cereal until just combined.
• Boldly skipping the cooling time: Cutting treats too soon can cause them to fall apart. Allow them to cool completely before slicing into squares.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cherry Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container.
• They will remain fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cherry Rice Krispie Treats

• Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to three months; allow them to thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating Cherry Rice Krispie Treats

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place treats on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual squares on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds at a time until warm.
• Stovetop: Place treats in a pan on low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cherry Rice Krispie Treats that might help you out!

What makes Cherry Rice Krispie Treats special?

Cherry Rice Krispie Treats stand out due to their sweet cherry flavor combined with chocolate, making them both colorful and delicious.

Can I use other flavors of gelatin?

Yes! You can substitute cherry gelatin with other fruit flavors like strawberry or raspberry for a unique twist.

How do I make Cherry Rice Krispie Treats without marshmallows?

You can replace marshmallows with a combination of melted vegan butter and sugar, mixing them until gooey before adding the cereal.

Are there any variations I can try?

Absolutely! Add nuts, dried fruits, or different types of chocolate for added texture and flavor diversity.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Rice Krispie Treats are not only quick and easy but also customizable for any occasion. With their delightful cherry flavor and rich chocolate topping, these treats are sure to please everyone. Feel free to experiment with different add-ins or toppings!