These Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are a fun and delicious twist on the classic treat. With the sweetness of marshmallows, the crunch of rice cereal, and the delightful flavor of chocolate-covered cherries, these treats are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a party, a bake sale, or just a sweet snack at home, these cherry-flavored Rice Krispies treats are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
The combination of cherry flavor and chocolate takes the traditional Rice Krispies treats to the next level, making them taste like a special dessert rather than just a simple snack. Plus, they’re quick to make with no baking required, making them ideal for busy days.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon cherry extract
- 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Rice Krispies Mixture
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
- Add the mini marshmallows to the melted butter, stirring continuously until fully melted and smooth.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cherry extract until fully combined.
- Add the Rice Krispies cereal and chopped dried cherries, stirring until the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
Step 3: Press into the Pan
- Pour the Rice Krispies mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Use a buttered spatula or a piece of parchment paper to press the mixture evenly into the pan.
- Allow the treats to cool and set for about 30 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate Coating
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and vegetable oil.
- Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Drizzle or spread the melted chocolate over the top of the Rice Krispies treats.
- Let the chocolate set at room temperature or in the refrigerator for quicker setting.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
- Once the chocolate has set, use a sharp knife to cut the treats into squares.
- Serve and enjoy the perfect blend of cherry, chocolate, and crispy goodness!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Cherry Extract: Cherry extract adds a lovely cherry flavor to the treats. If you don’t have cherry extract, you can substitute with almond extract for a slightly different but complementary flavor.
- Pressing the Mixture: Don’t press the mixture too firmly into the pan—just enough to even it out. Pressing too hard can make the treats dense instead of chewy.
- Chocolate Coating: For a more decadent treat, you can fully dip each square into the melted chocolate instead of drizzling it on top.
Recipe Variations
- White Chocolate Cherry: Substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier twist.
- Cherry Almond: Add 1/2 cup of sliced almonds to the mixture for an added crunch that pairs well with the cherry flavor.
- Maraschino Cherry Version: Replace the dried cherries with chopped maraschino cherries, but be sure to pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I store these treats?
A: Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Q: Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
A: Yes! You can use regular marshmallows—just use about 40 large marshmallows to replace the mini marshmallows. The melting process may take a bit longer.
Q: Can I make these treats ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These treats can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve them.
These Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are a delightful twist on the classic treat, combining the sweetness of chocolate with the fruity flavor of cherries. They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick dessert, a party snack, or a fun activity to do with the kids. With their chewy, crispy texture and rich flavors, these treats are sure to be a hit with everyone. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the wonderful combination of cherry and chocolate in every bite!
