Introduction

These Christmas Rice Krispie Treats are a festive twist on the classic snack, layered with peppermint and vibrant holiday colors. They’re perfect for sharing at parties or gifting during the holiday season. Soft, chewy, and bursting with peppermint flavor, they’re sure to be a crowd favorite.

The image shows several round treats stacked on a white plate with a gold rim, each treat made in a spiral pattern with three visible layers: a bright red center, a thin white middle, and a bright green outer layer with a rough textured surface. The colors are vivid, with the red and green layers looking crunchy while the white layer appears smooth and creamy. There are small broken white pieces scattered around the plate on a white marbled surface. Golden decorative elements are placed near the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

10 cups Rice Krispies cereal (divided)
1/2 cup butter (divided)
8 cups mini marshmallows (divided)
7 ounces marshmallow cream
1 cup crushed candy canes (peppermint flavored)
3-4 drops red food coloring
3-4 drops green food coloring

Instructions

Step 1: Lightly grease two 13×18-inch baking sheets and set aside. Divide the 10 cups of Rice Krispies cereal equally into two large mixing bowls, 5 cups in each.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 1/4 cup of butter. Add 4 cups of mini marshmallows and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth. Mix in 3-4 drops of red food coloring until evenly combined.
Step 3: Pour the red marshmallow mixture over one bowl of cereal. Using a rubber spatula, stir until all cereal is coated. Transfer this mixture to one prepared baking sheet and press evenly using wax or parchment paper. Set aside.
Step 4: Repeat the melting process with the remaining 1/4 cup butter and 4 cups mini marshmallows. Stir in 3-4 drops of green food coloring. Pour over the second bowl of cereal, stir to coat, and press into the second baking sheet.
Step 5: Let both Rice Krispie layers cool completely on their baking sheets.
Step 6: Spread the 7 ounces of marshmallow cream evenly over the red Rice Krispies layer, covering it edge to edge. Sprinkle 1 cup crushed candy canes over the marshmallow cream.
Step 7: Carefully place the green Rice Krispies layer on top of the peppermint-coated layer. Use a lightly greased rolling pin to gently press the layers together.
Step 8: Starting from one long edge, roll the layers tightly like a cinnamon roll. Press gently to ensure the roll sticks together well.
Step 9: Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into pieces of your desired thickness. Serve and enjoy your festive treats!

Tips & Variations

For extra peppermint flavor, add a drop of peppermint extract to the marshmallow mixtures.
Use crushed colored candies or sprinkles instead of candy canes for a different festive look.
To make cutting easier, chill the roll in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Storage

Store the Rice Krispie treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. If chilled, bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

How to Serve

The image shows colorful rolled treats with three visible layers. The outer layer is bright green and textured with small, round cereal pieces. Inside this layer is a thick bright red cereal layer, tightly packed and also textured, followed by a thin white cream layer that swirls inside the roll. These rolls are cut into thick slices, showing the spiral of green, white, and red from the outside to the center. The treats sit on a dark wooden surface with small white crumbs scattered around and a candy cane placed nearby. A shiny golden decoration is present on one side, adding a festive feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of marshmallow cream?

Yes, the recipe already includes mini marshmallows that are melted for the base layers. The marshmallow cream is used for the middle layer to help hold the layers together and create a smooth surface, but you can substitute with additional melted marshmallows if needed.

How do I prevent the Rice Krispies from sticking to the pan?

Lightly greasing the baking sheets before pressing in the mixture and using wax or parchment paper to press the cereal helps prevent sticking. Also, working quickly while the marshmallow mixture is still warm makes shaping easier.