Red White and Blue Rice Krispie Treats

Fourth of July just got even more fun! This Red White and Blue Rice Krispie Treats recipe adds patriotic flair to soft, chewy treats. With colorful M&Ms and sprinkles, they’re the perfect addition to a fireworks show or holiday picnic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and just a few steps, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Festive Appearance: The vibrant colors of red, white, and blue make these treats an eye-catching dessert for any celebration.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of marshmallows, buttery goodness, and chocolatey M&M’s creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.
• Customizable Options: You can easily modify the toppings or colors to fit any occasion beyond the Fourth of July.
• Kid-Friendly Activity: Making these treats is a fun project to do with kids, fostering creativity in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Large saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish is perfect for setting your treats evenly, ensuring they cut easily into squares.
• Parchment Paper: Lining your dish with parchment paper helps with easy removal of the treats after they have set.
• Large Saucepan: A large saucepan allows for melting butter and marshmallows without spills or mess.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl: This bowl is essential for melting candy melts safely and effectively.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 16 ounce bag mini marshmallows (divided)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 6 cups rice krispies cereal

For the Toppings

• 3/4 cup holiday M&M’s (divided)
• 1 Tablespoon holiday sprinkles
• 1/4 cup red candy melts (optional)
• 1/4 cup white candy melts (optional)
• 1/4 cup blue candy melts (optional)

How to Make Red White and Blue Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This will ensure your treats come out easily once set.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Marshmallows

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add all but 1 cup of the mini marshmallows. Reduce heat to low and stir continuously until fully melted.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Cereal

Remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract. Add the rice krispies cereal along with the remaining 1 cup of marshmallows. Mix gently until combined.

Step 4: Incorporate M&Ms

Fold in 1/2 cup of the holiday M&Ms into the mixture. Pour it into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Top with More Treats

Sprinkle the remaining M&Ms over the top along with holiday sprinkles. Press gently to adhere them to the surface.

Step 6: Set and Cut

Allow the mixture to set for about 30 minutes at room temperature. Once set, remove from the pan using parchment paper, then cut into squares.

Step 7: Drizzle Candy Melts

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the red candy melts in increments of 30 seconds, stirring in between until smooth. Drizzle over cut krispie treats. Repeat with white and blue candy melts if desired.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Let the candy melts set completely before serving these festive delights at your next celebration!

How to Serve Red White and Blue Rice Krispie Treats

These festive treats are not only delicious but also visually appealing. They can be served in various ways to enhance your Fourth of July celebrations.

For a Picnic

• Use colorful plates: Serve the treats on vibrant red, white, and blue plates for a festive look.
• Individual wraps: Wrap each treat in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon for easy grab-and-go snacks.

At a Fireworks Show

• Pack in snack bags: Place treats in small bags for an easy and fun way to enjoy while watching fireworks.
• Bring along drinks: Pair with refreshing summer beverages like lemonade or iced tea.

As Party Favors

• Create gift boxes: Place the treats in small boxes as party favors for guests to take home.
• Personalize: Add a tag with your guest’s name or a patriotic message to make it special.

During Family Gatherings

• Arrange on trays: Present them on large trays for a communal sharing experience.
• Add themed decor: Decorate the serving table with stars and stripes for an inviting atmosphere.

How to Perfect Red White and Blue Rice Krispie Treats

To ensure that your Red White and Blue Rice Krispie Treats turn out perfectly, follow these essential tips.

• Use fresh marshmallows: Fresh marshmallows will melt better and create a chewier texture.
• Don’t overheat butter: Melt the butter just until it’s liquid; overheating can change its flavor.
• Gently fold ingredients: When adding cereal and M&Ms, fold gently to maintain their shape for a delightful bite.
• Cool completely before cutting: Allow the treats to set fully before cutting them into squares for clean edges.
• Customize your colors: Feel free to switch up the candy melts or sprinkles based on your theme or preference.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Red White and Blue Rice Krispie Treats

Pairing side dishes with your Red White and Blue Rice Krispie Treats can elevate your holiday spread. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn grilled to perfection adds a smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the treats.
2. Patriotic Fruit Salad – A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and bananas creates a refreshing side that matches the theme.
3. Classic Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad provides a rich contrast to the sweet treats and is always a crowd favorite.
4. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances out the sweetness of the Rice Krispie Treats.
5. Deviled Eggs – These savory bites are easy to prepare and offer a protein-rich side dish that everyone loves.
6. Watermelon Slices – Juicy watermelon brings hydration and freshness, perfect for hot summer days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Red White and Blue Rice Krispie Treats can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to steer clear of. Here are a few mistakes you should avoid:

• Incorrect Butter Temperature: Using butter that is too hot can cause the marshmallows to melt too quickly, resulting in a mixture that’s too gooey. Always melt the butter over medium heat and add marshmallows once it’s fully melted.
• Overmixing the Cereal: Mixing the rice cereal too vigorously can crush it, leading to dense treats. Gently fold the cereal into the marshmallow mixture until just combined.
• Skipping Parchment Paper: Not lining your baking dish with parchment paper can make it hard to remove the treats later. Always line your baking dish for easy removal and cutting.
• Using Stale Ingredients: Old marshmallows or cereal won’t yield soft and chewy treats. Always check your ingredients for freshness before starting.
• Not Letting Them Set Properly: Cutting into the treats before they have set can result in a messy outcome. Allow them to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Layer parchment paper between treats if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Red White and Blue Rice Krispie Treats

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Red White and Blue Rice Krispie Treats

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm for 5-10 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat in 10-second intervals until just warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a non-stick skillet on low heat, stirring gently until softened.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Red White and Blue Rice Krispie Treats:

Can I use different colors of candy melts?

Yes! Feel free to customize with any colors of candy melts that suit your celebration theme.

How do I make these treats without M&Ms?

You can omit M&Ms entirely or replace them with other candies like chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor.

How do I store leftover Red White and Blue Rice Krispie Treats?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for extended freshness.

Can I use gluten-free rice cereal?

Absolutely! Just check that your rice cereal is labeled gluten-free to keep this treat accessible for everyone.

Final Thoughts

These Red White and Blue Rice Krispie Treats are not only festive but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with different candies or colors based on your occasion. Whether it’s a Fourth of July celebration or a birthday party, these treats are sure to be a hit! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the fun of making festive desserts!