There’s something just so nostalgic about biting into a gooey Rice Krispie treat. And while I remember them from my childhood, they’re not something that I’ve had in many years. Until now that is. This homemade, healthy Rice Krispie treat recipe is a new favorite in our house.
The Rice Krispie treats from the store are usually a little hard and not so fresh tasting. You’ll find ingredients like corn syrup, GMO soybean oil, artificial flavors, and acetylated monoglycerides… whatever that is. And many of the homemade Rice Krispies treats, while they taste good, aren’t much healthier.
An Upgraded Rice Krispies Treat Recipe
One of the questions I get all the time is how to use my homemade marshmallows recipe to make Rice Krispie treats. And honestly that’s not something I’d ever tried. For years my family avoided grains as I was in a healing phase. Now that grains are back in my diet on occasion, that means I’ve been experimenting with more grain-based recipes.
Of course, this doesn’t mean I’m eating glyphosate covered, artificially fortified white flour all the time. It’s about balance, but I still choose healthier options when I can. So for this recipe that means the name brand (or store brand) rice crispy cereal is out. Instead I used sprouted brown rice cereal.
Yes, it’s still cereal and not as nutritious as a grass-fed steak, but I’m ok with it for the occasional treat. Sprouted grains are easier for our body to digest. This cereal is organic, non-GMO, and sweetened with just a touch of coconut sugar. I’ve linked to the kind I used in the recipe below, but you can also use organic rice cereal from your local store if that’s all they have.
Homemade Marshmallows
My marshmallow recipe base is sweetened with honey instead of sugar. They feature gut healthy, grass-fed gelatin and real marshmallow root for more gut soothing benefits. I’ve experimented over the years with variations like elderberry, matcha, and even hibiscus rose marshmallows.
The marshmallow portion of the Rice Krispie treats recipe is very similar, but you don’t have to press them into a pan and let them set first. After whipping up the marshmallow mixture, simply add it to melted butter and stir in the cereal.
Homemade Rice Krispie Treat Variations
The kids and I love this recipe as is. In fact, the first time I made a batch the kids devoured them within minutes! However, you can also add some ingredients if you want a different flavor.
Try sprinkling some flaky sea salt on the top for a salty, sweet treat. Or drizzle the top with melted dark chocolate (and then sprinkle with salt!). Sometimes I’ll gently press mini chocolate chips onto the top before they’ve really hardened. Work quickly with this one though or you’ll just end up with melted chocolate all over your hand! I haven’t tried it here, but some people like adding ¼ cup of creamy peanut butter when stirring in the marshmallows to the butter.
For another depth of flavor, try browning the butter first before adding the marshmallows. It gives it a caramel-like taste! I give more details on how to brown butter in this pistachio chocolate chunk cookie recipe.
Here’s how to make healthier, naturally sweetened rice treats with homemade marshmallow!
Rice Krispie Treats Recipe (With Homemade Marshmallow)
This healthier, naturally sweetened version of rice krispie treats is a kid (and parent!) favorite.
Homemade Marshmallow Base
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Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
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Pour ½ cup of the cold water into the bowl of a stand mixer. Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the water and let it sit while you prepare the honey syrup.
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In a small saucepan, combine the remaining ½ cup of water, honey, and sea salt.
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Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Simmer for 7-8 minutes, until slightly thickened.
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Turn the mixer on low speed. Carefully and slowrly pour the hot honey syrup into the gelatin mixture.
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Gradually increase the mixer speed to high. Whip for 8-10 minutes, until thick, glossy, fluffy, and marshmallow-like. Add the vanilla extract during the last minute of mixing.
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While the marshmallow is whipping, melt the butter in a large pot over low heat.
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Add the whipped marshmallow mixture to the melted butter and stir until combined.
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Fold in the crispy rice cereal until evenly coated.
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Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Using lightly buttered hands or a piece of parchment paper, gently press into an even layer.
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Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Let cool for about 30 minutes before slicing into squares and serving.
Nutrition Facts
Rice Krispie Treats Recipe (With Homemade Marshmallow)
Amount Per Serving (1 square)
Calories 135
Calories from Fat 27
% Daily Value*
Fat 3g5%
Saturated Fat 2g13%
Trans Fat 0.1g
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.2g
Monounsaturated Fat 1g
Cholesterol 8mg3%
Sodium 118mg5%
Potassium 26mg1%
Carbohydrates 26g9%
Fiber 0.1g0%
Sugar 18g20%
Protein 2g4%
Vitamin A 786IU16%
Vitamin C 7mg8%
Calcium 4mg0%
Iron 3mg17%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
- The optional flaky sea salt turns this into an amazing salty sweet treat.
- Try drizzling the top with some melted dark chocolate for a more decadent dessert.
How to Store Homemade Rice Krispie Treats
Homemade Rice Krispie treats store best at room temperature. Keep them in an airtight container and enjoy within 4-5 days. However, if your house is like mine, they won’t last long!
What are your favorite Rice Krispie treat flavors? Ever made them before? Leave a comment and share below!