Extra-Marshmallow Rice Krispies Bars with Confetti
If you’re on the hunt for a treat that combines nostalgia with a modern twist, look no further than these Extra-Marshmallow Rice Krispies Bars with Confetti. Picture the classic Rice Krispies treat, but cranked up with an extra layer of gooey marshmallow and sprinkled with vibrant confetti. These bars are perfect for birthday parties, celebrations, or just a fun afternoon snack. The combination of crispy cereal and melted marshmallows creates a delightful texture while the sprinkles add a burst of color and fun. Let’s dive into the magic of making these sweet treats that are sure to impress friends and family alike.
The Upside of Extra-Marshmallow Rice Krispies Bars with Confetti
These Extra-Marshmallow Rice Krispies Bars with Confetti are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience. The extra marshmallow makes each bite softer and chewier, while the addition of sprinkles brings joy and whimsy. Not only are they incredibly easy to prepare, but they also require minimal ingredients, making them an accessible option for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these bars are guaranteed to bring smiles all around.
The Ingredient Lineup
To craft these delightful bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 (10-ounce) bags miniature marshmallows, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 9 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 3 (4-ounce) bars good quality white chocolate (I use Ghirardelli)
- Pink candy coloring from Wilton Candy Colors Garden Colors Set (do not use regular food coloring as it will seize up and not work!)
- A mix of sprinkles (for extra fun!)
Setup & Equipment
Before you start, gather the following equipment:
- Large saucepan
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper (optional for easy removal)
- Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula (for spreading the mixture)
Extra-Marshmallow Rice Krispies Bars with Confetti: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Melt the Butter
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even melting.
Step 2: Add the Marshmallows
Once the butter has completely melted, add 2 bags of the miniature marshmallows to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are fully melted and the mixture is smooth. This should take about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Incorporate Salt
Sprinkle in the 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt to enhance the flavors. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Mix in Rice Krispies
Remove the saucepan from heat and add the 9 cups of Rice Krispies cereal to the melted marshmallow mixture. Gently fold the cereal into the marshmallows until well-coated, being careful not to crush the cereal too much.
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This step is crucial for ensuring that your bars come out perfectly.
Step 6: Transfer the Mixture
Pour the Rice Krispies mixture into the prepared baking dish. Using a spatula, press the mixture down firmly and evenly into the dish, making sure to get into the corners.
Step 7: Melt the White Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the 3 bars of Ghirardelli white chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and fully melted. Add a few drops of pink candy coloring to the melted chocolate and mix until you achieve your desired shade.
Step 8: Drizzle and Decorate
Pour the melted pink chocolate over the pressed Rice Krispies mixture in the baking dish. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly. Before the chocolate sets, generously sprinkle a mix of colorful sprinkles on top for that festive touch.
Step 9: Cool and Set
Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about an hour, or until the chocolate has completely set. If you’re in a hurry, you can place them in the refrigerator for quicker cooling.
Step 10: Slice and Serve
Once set, lift the bars out of the baking dish using the edges of the parchment paper (if used). Slice into squares or rectangles, and serve. Enjoy the delightful crunch and gooeyness of these Extra-Marshmallow Rice Krispies Bars with Confetti!
Seasonal Spins
These bars can be easily adapted for different seasons or celebrations. Consider these fun variations:
- For Halloween, add orange and black sprinkles and use dark chocolate instead of white.
- During the holidays, incorporate red and green sprinkles, and add a sprinkle of crushed peppermint on top.
- For birthdays, use a mix of sprinkles that match the birthday theme or colors.
- In the spring, try using pastel-colored sprinkles and a hint of lemon zest in the marshmallow mixture for a refreshing twist.
Pro Perspective
- To ensure your marshmallows melt smoothly, avoid high heat; medium heat allows for better control and prevents burning.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate or candy melts for added flavor and color.
- If you want an even more gooey texture, add an additional bag of marshmallows to the mixture before pressing it into the baking dish.
- For a crunchy texture, consider adding in some chopped nuts or crushed cookies into the Rice Krispies mixture.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Extra-Marshmallow Rice Krispies Bars with Confetti fresh:
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a particularly humid area, it may be best to keep them refrigerated to maintain their texture. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature.
Reader Questions
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of miniature marshmallows?
Yes, you can use regular marshmallows, but you’ll need to cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they melt evenly.
What can I substitute for white chocolate?
If you prefer, you can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate. Just ensure you adjust the melting time accordingly, as they may melt differently.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance, making them a great option for party prep.
How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing when adding coloring?
Using candy coloring instead of regular food coloring is key. Regular food coloring can cause the chocolate to seize, while candy coloring is designed for this purpose.
You Might Also Like
- Classic Rice Krispies Treats
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
- Funfetti Cupcakes
- Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Treats
Ready, Set, Cook
Now that you have the recipe and all the tips to make your Extra-Marshmallow Rice Krispies Bars with Confetti, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get started. With each step, you’ll be creating a delightful treat that brings joy and a pop of color to any occasion. Whether you’re snacking on them yourself or sharing them with others, these bars are sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy the process, have fun with the sprinkles, and indulge in the deliciousness!
Extra-Marshmallow Rice Krispies Bars with Confetti
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add 2 bags of miniature marshmallows to the saucepan and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and stir well to combine.
- Remove from heat and gently fold in 9 cups of Rice Krispies cereal until well-coated.
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly and evenly.
- Melt the 3 bars of Ghirardelli white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Add pink candy coloring to achieve desired shade.
- Drizzle the melted pink chocolate over the Rice Krispies mixture and sprinkle with colorful sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
- Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about an hour or refrigerate for quicker cooling.
- Once set, lift the bars out using parchment paper edges, slice, and serve.
Notes
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic and freeze for up to three months.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate for unique flavors!
