The Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats are a cheerful twist on the classic childhood favorite, blending crisp, marshmallow-coated Rice Krispies with the warm and inviting spices of gingerbread. This easy, no-bake treat marries the nostalgic texture of Rice Krispies with the cozy flavors of cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and molasses, making it an ideal dessert or snack for holiday occasions.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Perfect for holiday parties, gift-giving, or simply a comforting sweet to enjoy by the fire on a chilly night, these treats require minimal prep and cook time, setting quickly with no oven needed. With about 20 minutes from start to finish, anyone can whip up these festive squares to bring a touch of holiday magic to any gathering.
Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter for easy removal.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir frequently until fully melted and smooth.
- Stir in molasses, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and vanilla extract (if using). Mix until well blended and fragrant.
- Remove the saucepan from heat. Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated without crushing the cereal.
- Transfer mixture into the prepared pan and press evenly using a spatula or buttered hands.
- Let the mixture cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes until firm. Lift from the pan and cut into 12 squares or shapes using cookie cutters.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love This Recipe : Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats: A Festive No-Bake Holiday Delight
Fast and Easy: Prepared in just 20 minutes without baking, it’s perfect for last-minute desserts or quick holiday treats.
Family-Friendly: Kids love helping mix and press the treats, and they make a great wholesome snack to satisfy sweet cravings.
Festive Flavor Boost: The mix of gingerbread spices and molasses transforms simple Rice Krispies into a holiday classic everyone will enjoy.
Versatile: These treats are perfect for parties, cookie exchanges, homemade gifts, or just a sweet snack during the holiday season.
Customizable: Optional vanilla extract and holiday-themed cookie cutters let you personalize the treats to your taste and occasion.
Ingredients List with Substitutions and Add-Ins Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal – crispy and light, but any puffed rice cereal works well.
- 10 oz mini marshmallows (approximately 4 cups) – for that gooey, chewy binding texture.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – can be substituted with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- 3 tablespoons molasses – the key ingredient for that authentic gingerbread flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds depth and sweetness.
Optional Add-Ins:
A handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist.
White chocolate drizzle for extra sweetness and decoration.
Step-by-Step Instructions with Prep Tips
Prepare the Pan
Start by lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to remove the treats once they’re firm.
Melt Butter and Marshmallows
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir frequently until the mixture melts into a smooth, glossy liquid base. Patience here ensures no burnt spots and a perfectly smooth mixture.
Add Gingerbread Flavoring
Stir in the molasses, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and vanilla extract if using. Mix thoroughly so that the spices and molasses blend evenly, filling your kitchen with warm, spicy aromas reminiscent of holiday baking.
Combine with Cereal
Remove the pan from heat and fold in the Rice Krispies cereal. The key is gentle folding to coat every crunchy flake without crushing the cereal, preserving that classic crispy texture.
Press Into the Pan
Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. Use a spatula or lightly buttered hands to press it evenly and firmly down, ensuring the treat will hold together once cooled.
Cool and Cut
Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes until firm. Then lift the parchment paper from the pan and cut into 12 squares or use festive cookie cutters to make shapes like stars or trees, perfect for holiday celebrations.
Calories: Approximately 160 kcal per serving
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
Store Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and chewy. For longer storage, they freeze well wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving. These treats are best enjoyed fresh; reheating isn’t usually necessary, but you can warm them gently for a few seconds in the microwave if slightly firm.
Serving Suggestions and Garnish Ideas
Serve these treats plain for a classic snack or dress them up with:
A light dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
Drizzles of melted white or dark chocolate.
Sprinkles or edible glitter for festive fun.
Accompany with hot cocoa or spiced apple cider to complement the gingerbread spices.
Optional Variations to Adjust Flavor or Spice
Add nutmeg or allspice to the spice mix for a more complex gingerbread profile.
Mix in mini chocolate chips for a chocolate-gingerbread combo.
Use honey or maple syrup in place of molasses for a milder sweetness.
For a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil and use vegan marshmallows.
Cultural and Contextual Note
Gingerbread is a beloved flavor tradition rooted in European holiday baking, with spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves evoking festive warmth and cheer. Combining it with Rice Krispie treats, a quintessential American snack grounded in simplicity and nostalgia, creates a delightful fusion of classic tastes. This recipe captures the spirit of holiday comfort food quick, sweet, and infused with spices that remind us of cozy winter celebrations with family and friends.