Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats Recipe

If you’re craving the nostalgic comfort of a classic childhood treat but want to add a grown-up twist, these Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are going to absolutely win you over. Imagine everything you love about gooey marshmallow bars—light, crispy, playful—but with bursts of tangy maraschino cherries and a generous layer of rich chocolate to ensure that every bite is as memorable as the last. This recipe hits that wonderful sweet spot between easy and impressive, perfect for weeknight desserts, parties, or as the ultimate homemade edible gift. Once you try these, you’ll see why Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are impossible to resist!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Just a handful of simple ingredients come together to create pure dessert magic. Each element brings something special to the mix, whether it’s flavor, texture, or that irresistible touch of nostalgia these treats deliver.

• Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): This is the foundation for flavor and richness in your treats—don’t skip it!
• Mini marshmallows (1 10-ounce bag): They’re the secret to that signature soft, chewy texture we all love.
• Almond extract (½ teaspoon): Just a splash adds a subtle, almost floral note that pairs perfectly with cherries.
• Rice Krispies cereal (6 cups): The legendary crunch and snap that holds everything together—accept no substitutes here!
• Chopped maraschino cherries (1 cup, well-drained and patted dry): These flashy gems bring color, sweetness, and a delightful tart kick—but make sure they’re really dry to avoid soggy bars.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): For a smooth, shiny chocolate topping that keeps you reaching for more.
• Coconut oil or vegetable shortening (1 tablespoon): Blending this with the chocolate keeps it silky and easy to drizzle or spread.

How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Start by giving your 9×13-inch baking dish a generous coat of nonstick spray, or line it with parchment paper for super easy cleanup. This helps you pop the treats out cleanly once they’re set, no wrestling required!

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows

In a large pot set over low heat, gently melt the unsalted butter. Once the butter is all melty and fragrant, add in the bag of mini marshmallows. Stir constantly as the marshmallows slowly dissolve into a glossy, irresistible goo. Patience here pays off—you want everything smooth with zero lumps.

Step 3: Add Almond Extract

Once the marshmallow mixture is perfectly smooth, stir in the almond extract. This tiny step layers in a surprising depth of flavor and ties together the marshmallow and cherry beautifully!

Step 4: Combine with Cereal and Cherries

Take the pot off the heat and quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal and the chopped, well-dried maraschino cherries. You want everything evenly coated—those juicy cherry bits will pop with every bite. Work fast here, as the mixture begins to set quickly.

Step 5: Press and Cool

Using a greased spatula or a piece of wax paper, press the sticky mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Let it cool for about 15 to 20 minutes—just enough time to clean up or dream about your first bite.

Step 6: Top with Chocolate

Combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil or shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Drizzle or spread this luscious chocolate over the cooled layer, swirling as much as you like!

Step 7: Set, Slice, and Serve

Allow the Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats to sit at room temperature (or pop them in the fridge to speed things up) until the chocolate topping is set and firm. Once ready, cut into squares—16 is a perfect number, but you can always make smaller bites for sharing.

How to Serve Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Garnishes

Add flair by sprinkling a little flaky sea salt over the chocolate before it sets. This simple touch balances out the sweetness and makes the flavors pop. You could also top with a few extra chopped cherries or some festive sprinkles for fun occasions.

Side Dishes

Serve your Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats with a tall glass of milk for that classic combo, or pair them with dark roast coffee or black tea for a more grown-up dessert moment. Fresh berries on the side add a refreshing contrast, too.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting your treats into heart shapes for Valentine’s Day, serving them in cupcake liners for parties, or stacking several in a clear jar and tying with ribbon for irresistibly pretty edible gifts. There’s no wrong way to showcase these beauties—let your creativity guide you!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay deliciously chewy for up to three days, perfect for snacking or packing in lunches.

Freezing

If you’d like to make a batch ahead or find yourself with leftovers, these treats freeze surprisingly well. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then pop them in a zip-top freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.

Reheating

You won’t need to reheat these, but if you love a gooier texture, a quick five-second zap in the microwave brings back the marshmallowy softness just before you eat them. Be careful not to overdo it—the chocolate can melt fast!

FAQs

Can I use another cereal besides Rice Krispies?

Absolutely! While Rice Krispies give these bars their classic lightness and crunch, you can swap in similar puffed rice cereals or even experiment with cocoa-flavored versions for extra chocolatey results.

What’s the best way to chop and dry maraschino cherries?

Drain the cherries very thoroughly, then spread them out on a few layers of paper towels. Pat gently to remove as much liquid as possible before chopping—this step is key to preventing soggy bars.

How do I keep the treats from sticking to my hands or spatula?

Grease your hands or spatula with a little butter or nonstick spray before pressing the mixture in the pan. Wax paper also works great—just lay a sheet over the top and press evenly for clean, tidy bars.

Can I make these treats dairy-free or vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter with plant-based margarine, use vegan marshmallows, and choose dairy-free chocolate chips to create a version everyone can enjoy.

Why is my chocolate topping not setting?

If your kitchen is particularly warm or humid, the chocolate might take longer to firm up. Pop the pan in the fridge for a quick fix, and make sure to use the coconut oil or shortening to keep the chocolate nice and glossy.

Final Thoughts

Don’t wait for a special occasion to whip up a batch of Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats—they’re as easy as they are unforgettable! Share them with friends, tuck into one yourself, and get ready for those happy, cherry-chocolatey moments that only homemade treats can bring.

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