Who doesn’t love a sweet and crunchy treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat? These M&M Rice Krispie Bars are the ultimate no-bake dessert, combining gooey marshmallows, crispy rice cereal, and colorful M&M’s for a snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a party, a lunchbox surprise, or just a homemade snack to satisfy your sweet tooth, this quick and easy recipe is sure to be a hit.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a batch of irresistibly chewy, chocolate-studded treats ready to enjoy. Plus, you can customize them with different M&M flavors or add-ins to match any season or celebration. Ready to whip up a batch of these fun and kid-friendly treats? Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Key Benefits of M&M Rice Krispie Bars
Why will you love these M&M Rice Krispie Bars? Let’s break it down.
- Quick and Easy – This no-bake dessert comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Minimal Ingredients – With just a handful of pantry staples like mini marshmallows, crispy rice cereal, and M&M’s, you can whip up a delicious treat in no time.
- Fun and Kid-Friendly – These bars are as fun to make as they are to eat. Kids love stirring in the colorful candies and shaping the bars.
- Soft and Chewy Texture – The perfect balance of gooey marshmallows and crunchy cereal ensures every bite is soft, chewy, and absolutely irresistible.
- Customizable for Any Occasion – Swap in seasonal M&M’s or add sprinkles for a festive twist, making these treats perfect for holidays, birthdays, and celebrations.
- Great for Gifting and Sharing – These bars are easy to transport and store, making them a fantastic option for potlucks, bake sales, or lunchbox treats.
If you’re looking for a homemade snack that’s packed with sweet, chocolatey crunch, these bars are about to become your new favorite go-to.
Ingredients for M&M Rice Krispie Bars
Gather these simple ingredients to create a batch of soft, chewy, and chocolate-studded M&M Rice Krispie Bars.
Main Ingredients:
- 6 cups crispy rice cereal – Provides the perfect light and crunchy base.
- 4 cups mini marshmallows – Melted marshmallows create that signature gooey texture.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps achieve a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle warmth.
- 1 cup M&M’s – Brings bursts of chocolate and a fun pop of color.
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
- ½ cup white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips – Adds an extra layer of indulgence.
- Sprinkles – Perfect for a festive touch during holidays or celebrations.
Pro Tip:
Use fresh marshmallows for the best texture. Older marshmallows tend to harden when melted, making the bars less chewy.
Now that you have everything ready, let’s move on to the simple steps to make these delicious bars.
How to Make M&M Rice Krispie Bars
Making M&M Rice Krispie Bars is quick, fun, and requires just a few simple steps. Follow this easy guide to create soft, chewy bars with the perfect crunch.
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
- Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with a thin layer of butter or cooking spray to prevent the bars from sticking.
- For easy removal, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
- Warm a large saucepan over low heat, then add the butter, stirring gently as it melts to avoid burning.
- Add the mini marshmallows and continue stirring until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 3: Combine with Crispy Rice Cereal
- Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the crispy rice cereal in a large mixing bowl.
- Using a rubber spatula, gently fold everything together until the cereal is fully coated.
Step 4: Add M&M’s Without Melting
- Let the mixture cool for 1–2 minutes before adding the M&M’s to prevent them from melting.
- Stir in ¾ cup of M&M’s, saving the rest for topping.
Step 5: Press the Mixture into the Pan
- Transfer the coated cereal mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Lightly grease your hands or spatula and gently press the mixture into an even layer. Avoid pressing too firmly to keep the bars light and chewy.
Step 6: Top and Set
- Sprinkle the reserved ¼ cup of M&M’s over the bars and press them lightly into the surface.
- Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before slicing.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
- Once set, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and place them on a cutting board.
- Cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy!
Now, your homemade M&M Rice Krispie Bars are ready to be shared. Perfect for lunchboxes, parties, or a quick sweet treat anytime!
Pro Tips and Variations
Want to take your M&M Rice Krispie Bars to the next level? Here are some expert tips and creative variations to customize this classic treat.
Pro Tips for Perfect Rice Krispie Bars
- Use Fresh Marshmallows – Older marshmallows can become dry and won’t melt as smoothly, affecting the texture of your bars.
- Melt on Low Heat – Keep the butter and marshmallows on low heat to prevent scorching and maintain a soft, chewy consistency.
- Avoid Pressing Too Firmly – Gently press the mixture into the pan to keep the bars light and airy rather than dense and hard.
- Grease Your Tools – Lightly coat your spatula or hands with butter or nonstick spray before pressing the mixture into the pan to prevent sticking.
- Let the Mixture Cool Before Adding M&M’s – Stir in the M&M’s after the mixture has slightly cooled to keep them from melting.
Fun Variations to Try
- Seasonal Twist – Swap in holiday-themed M&M’s (like red and green for Christmas or pastel for Easter) to make these bars perfect for any celebration.
- Chocolate Lover’s Version – Drizzle melted milk or white chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent touch.
- Peanut Butter Delight – Stir in ¼ cup of peanut butter with the melted marshmallow mixture for a nutty flavor boost.
- Crunchy Add-Ins – Mix in crushed pretzels, chopped nuts, or mini chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
- Marshmallow Swirl – Reserve a handful of mini marshmallows and fold them in at the end for extra gooey bites.
With these tips and variations, you can customize your M&M Rice Krispie Bars to match any taste or occasion. Get creative and enjoy experimenting with different flavors!
Serving Suggestions
M&M Rice Krispie Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re packing them in a lunchbox, bringing them to a party, or just enjoying a sweet snack at home. Here are some fun and creative ways to serve them.
Best Ways to Enjoy M&M Rice Krispie Bars
- Classic Squares – Slice into evenly sized squares for easy grab-and-go treats.
- Mini Bites – Cut into small, bite-sized pieces for party platters or kid-friendly snacking.
- Dipped in Chocolate – Coat half of each bar in melted milk, dark, or white chocolate for a decadent touch.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches – Layer a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two bars for an irresistible frozen dessert.
- Drizzled with Caramel or Chocolate – Add a finishing drizzle of caramel or melted chocolate to enhance flavor and presentation.
Perfect Occasions for These Treats
- Birthday Parties – A fun and colorful dessert that kids (and adults) love.
- Bake Sales – Easy to make in bulk and always a crowd-pleaser.
- Holiday Gatherings – Use seasonal M&M’s to match the theme of the celebration.
- Lunchbox Snacks – A sweet midday treat that stays fresh and chewy.
- Movie Nights – Serve alongside popcorn for a fun mix of sweet and salty flavors.
No matter how you serve them, these M&M Rice Krispie Bars are sure to be a hit. Get creative and enjoy every chewy, chocolate-filled bite!
Conclusion
Making M&M Rice Krispie Bars at home is a simple yet rewarding way to enjoy a nostalgic treat with a fun, colorful twist. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create chewy, crunchy bars that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a party, a bake sale, or just a sweet snack to enjoy at home, these bars are guaranteed to be a hit.
By following the tips and variations shared, you can customize your bars to suit different flavors and celebrations. Don’t be afraid to get creative—try new mix-ins, drizzle on some chocolate, or even turn them into festive holiday treats.
Now that you have the ultimate M&M Rice Krispie Bars recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start making your own delicious batch. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share with friends and family!
M&M Rice Krispie Bars Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 6 cups crispy rice cereal – Provides the perfect light and crunchy base.
- 4 cups mini marshmallows – Melted marshmallows create that signature gooey texture.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps achieve a smooth melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle warmth.
- 1 cup M&M’s – Brings bursts of chocolate and a fun pop of color.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
- Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with a thin layer of butter or cooking spray to prevent the bars from sticking.
- For easy removal, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
- Warm a large saucepan over low heat, then add the butter, stirring gently as it melts to avoid burning.
- Add the mini marshmallows and continue stirring until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 3: Combine with Crispy Rice Cereal
- Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the crispy rice cereal in a large mixing bowl.
- Using a rubber spatula, gently fold everything together until the cereal is fully coated.
Step 4: Add M&M’s Without Melting
- Let the mixture cool for 1–2 minutes before adding the M&M’s to prevent them from melting.
- Stir in ¾ cup of M&M’s, saving the rest for topping.
Step 5: Press the Mixture into the Pan
- Transfer the coated cereal mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Lightly grease your hands or spatula and gently press the mixture into an even layer. Avoid pressing too firmly to keep the bars light and chewy.
Step 6: Top and Set
- Sprinkle the reserved ¼ cup of M&M’s over the bars and press them lightly into the surface.
- Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before slicing.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
- Once set, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and place them on a cutting board.
- Cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy!
Video
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 12 bars
- Calories: Approx. 180 per serving
FAQs
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about making M&M Rice Krispie Bars, ensuring you get the best results every time.
1. How do I keep my Rice Krispie bars soft and chewy?
To maintain a soft, chewy texture, avoid overheating the marshmallow mixture. Gently warm the butter and marshmallows on low heat, stirring often to maintain a smooth consistency. Also, press the mixture into the pan gently—packing it too tightly can make the bars hard.
2. Can I use different types of M&M’s?
Yes! You can experiment with peanut, caramel, pretzel, or mini M&M’s to add extra flavor and texture. Just be mindful that larger M&M’s may affect how well the bars hold together.
3. How do I prevent the M&M’s from melting into the mixture?
Let the marshmallow and cereal mixture sit for one to two minutes before adding the M&M’s. This helps prevent the candy coating from melting and blending into the bars.
4. Can these bars be made ahead of time?
Definitely! Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness and texture for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap them well and freeze for up to six weeks.
5. What’s the best way to cut clean, even squares?
For neat slices, use a sharp knife greased with butter or nonstick spray. Let the bars cool completely before cutting to prevent sticking and crumbling.
6. Can I use a different type of cereal instead of Rice Krispies?
Yes! Try using Cocoa Krispies, Fruity Pebbles, or Cornflakes for a different taste and texture. Each will bring a unique twist to the classic recipe.
7. Can I make these without marshmallows?
If you prefer a marshmallow-free version, use honey or peanut butter as a binding agent. Heat it gently with butter and mix it with the cereal before pressing it into the pan.
8. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, swap butter for coconut oil or a plant-based alternative. Also, choose dairy-free chocolate candies instead of regular M&M’s.
9. Can I add extra mix-ins for more flavor?
Definitely! Enhance the texture and taste by mixing in ingredients like chopped nuts, crushed pretzels, shredded coconut, or extra mini marshmallows.
10. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness. When stacking, use parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking together.
These FAQs will help you troubleshoot and customize your M&M Rice Krispie Bars for the best results. Enjoy making and sharing this fun, no-bake treat!