A whisper of nostalgia fills the air as I recall the joy of creating sweet treats in my childhood kitchen. Those little moments often spark the most heartwarming recipes, like these Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats. Combining the classic crunch of Rice Krispies cereal with the lusciousness of chocolate and the tangy pop of maraschino cherries, this recipe is a delightful twist on an old favorite. Not only are these treats a cinch to whip up in just 20 minutes, but they also transport you back to simpler days with every bite. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert for a gathering or a fun way to stash something special in your lunchbox, these indulgent squares are sure to satisfy that sweet craving. Curious how easy it is to make your own batch of gooey nostalgia? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are these Rice Krispies Treats irresistible?
Quick and Easy: These Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats come together in just 20 minutes, making them the perfect choice for a last-minute dessert or a fun family activity.
Nostalgic Delight: Each bite combines the crunchy texture of Rice Krispies with the chewy sweetness of marshmallows and the tartness of maraschino cherries, reviving fond childhood memories.
Versatile Fun: Whether enjoyed at a birthday party or packed in lunchboxes, these treats are sure to please both kids and adults alike!
Decadent Chocolate Layer: The rich layer of chocolate not only adds a beautiful finish but also takes these treats over the top in flavor. If you love chocolate, you'll want to try even more delightful variations in our Chocolate Dessert Recipes collection.
Crowd-Pleaser: They’re a fantastic way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, making them a perfect addition to any gathering!
Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Ingredients
For the Base
• Rice Krispies cereal – 6 cups – The classic crunch that gives these treats their delightful texture.
• Mini marshmallows – 4 cups – Melts beautifully to bind the mixture together, creating that signature gooeyness.
• Butter – 3 tablespoons – Adds richness and helps to melt the marshmallows evenly.
For the Cherry Twist
• Maraschino cherries – 1 cup, drained and chopped – These sweet and tart gems provide a burst of flavor that elevates the treats.
For the Chocolate Layer
• Chocolate chips – 1 cup – Melting them creates a luscious top layer that makes these treats irresistibly decadent.
• Vegetable oil – 1 tablespoon – Helps the chocolate to melt smoothly and gives it a nice sheen when poured over the treats.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies
Step 1: Melt the Marshmallow Mixture
In a large saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, allowing it to fully liquefy. Once melted, add 4 cups of mini marshmallows and stir continuously for about 3–5 minutes until the mixture is completely smooth and fluffy without any lumps. This gooey base is the heart of your Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats, so keep a close eye on it!
Step 2: Combine the Rice Krispies
Remove the saucepan from the heat and then gently fold in 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal. Use a spatula to mix until every piece of cereal is coated evenly, about 2–3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cereal takes on a glossy appearance from the marshmallow mixture. This creates the perfect crunchy base for your treats!
Step 3: Fold in the Cherries
Add 1 cup of chopped maraschino cherries to the cereal mixture. Carefully fold them in using your spatula, ensuring the cherries are evenly distributed throughout the Rice Krispies. This step adds a delightful burst of flavor, making your Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats even more irresistible. It should take about 1 minute to mix well.
Step 4: Press into the Pan
Grease a 9x13 inch pan lightly and then press the mixture evenly into the pan using your hands or the back of a spatula. Aim for an even layer, about 1–2 inches thick. Let this mixture cool for at least 10 minutes at room temperature, allowing it to firm up while you prepare the chocolate layer that will crown your treats.
Step 5: Melt the Chocolate
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, heating over low heat. Stir continuously for about 3–4 minutes until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth, creating a luscious coating for the top of your treats. The oil will give it a beautiful sheen, making it even more appealing.
Step 6: Pour and Spread the Chocolate
Remove the melted chocolate from the heat and pour it evenly over the cooled Rice Krispies mixture in the pan. Use a spatula to gently spread the chocolate to cover the top completely. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes, or until it solidifies into a firm layer on top.
Step 7: Cut and Serve
Once the chocolate is firm, use a sharp knife to cut the treats into square pieces. Aim for about 2 inches in size for perfect serving portions. These Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them on a platter at your next gathering or pack them into lunchboxes for a delightful surprise.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies
Room Temperature: Store the Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and gooey, just like fresh.
Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, you can keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Just be mindful that they may lose some of their chewy texture.
Freezer: Freeze the treats for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. To avoid sticking, layer them with parchment paper between each layer before sealing.
Reheating: If you enjoy a slightly warm treat, simply microwave them for 10–15 seconds. This will restore some of the gooey goodness in your Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies
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Choose Fresh Cherries: Opt for high-quality maraschino cherries as they add brightness and flavor. Avoid overly sweet varieties that mask the treat's balance.
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Don't Overheat Marshmallows: When melting the mini marshmallows, heat them slowly. Too much heat can cause them to scorch, resulting in a grainy texture.
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Press Firmly: Ensure you press the Rice Krispies mixture firmly into the pan. A well-packed base helps the treats hold their shape and makes cutting easier.
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Cool Completely: Allow the chocolate layer to cool thoroughly before cutting. This ensures a clean separation of squares and enhances the overall presentation of your Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies.
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Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. Storing them in the fridge may make them too hard, losing that delightful gooey texture!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the base mixture (steps 1-4) up to 24 hours in advance—just cover the pressed treat layer tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld harmoniously. When you're ready to finish, melt the chocolate and pour it over the cooled base (steps 5-7) for that delicious, glossy finish. Simply allow the chocolate to set at room temperature, and you'll have an irresistible treat that tastes just as delightful while freeing up your schedule for other activities. Enjoy the ease of preparing ahead while still impressing everyone with these treats!
Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to these delightful treats and unleash your inner creative chef!
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Nutty Crunch: Add 1 cup of crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts for added texture and a nutty flavor boost. It pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the marshmallows.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a creamy yet dairy-free version. Your taste buds won’t even notice the difference!
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the melted chocolate for a surprising spice twist. This fiery addition enhances the chocolate's richness, creating an unexpected flavor explosion.
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Fruit Fusion: Swap maraschino cherries for dried cranberries or chopped strawberries to bring a different fruity flavor to your treats. The tartness of cranberries offers a lovely contrast to the sweetness.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the chocolate layer before it sets for an indulgent caramel-chocolate combination that’s hard to resist. This adds a gooey richness that compliments the cherries.
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Cereal Twist: Mix in different cereals like Cocoa Puffs or Lucky Charms along with the Rice Krispies for a fun and colorful texture. It's a playful way to make these treats even more exciting for kids!
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Peanut Butter Bliss: Stir in a half cup of peanut butter while melting the butter and marshmallows for a peanut butter twist that adds creaminess and savory depth. It’s a classic combo that never gets old.
Feel free to explore these variations to make your Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats uniquely yours. If you loved these treats, check out our No-Bake Dessert Recipes for more quick and easy inspirations!
What to Serve with Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats
Imagine delighting your guests with a spread of dishes that harmonize beautifully with these scrumptious squares of sweetness.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla enhances the chocolate and cherry flavors, creating a delightful contrast with each bite.
Pairing a warm treat with chilled ice cream is always a winning combination, making for a comforting dessert experience. -
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling extra chocolate sauce amplifies the indulgence, offering a luxurious touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
This simple addition elevates your presentation and encourages guests to customize their portions, keeping it interactive and fun. -
Fresh Berries: A bowl of mixed berries adds a refreshing pop of color and tartness that helps balance the sweetness of the treats.
The juicy freshness of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries is a perfect complement that adds brightness and visual appeal to your dessert table. -
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream makes a dreamy topping, adding smoothness that pairs perfectly with the chewy treats.
A dollop of whipped cream provides a wonderful lightness that contrasts the rich chocolate, inviting everyone to dive in for more. -
Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy nut mix adds texture and a savory element, creating an exciting balance of flavors that lifts the overall experience.
Choosing lightly salted nuts can introduce an unexpected savory note that pairs excellently with the sweetness of the Rice Krispies treats. -
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink like sparkling lemonade offers a zesty contrast, cleansing the palate while enhancing the dessert experience.
The bubbly effervescence and tartness work harmoniously to create an exciting combination that’s perfect for warm gatherings or celebrations. -
Chocolate Milk: For a nostalgic touch, serving a glass of rich chocolate milk mirrors the treat's flavors, turning your dessert into a playful experience.
This classic pairing is not just for kids—adults will enjoy embracing their inner child with this delightful combination! -
Coffee or Espresso: A bold cup of coffee or espresso can provide a robust counterpart to the sweetness, cutting through the richness effectively.
Many dessert lovers appreciate the combination of coffee with sweets, as the bitterness enhances the chocolate flavors while revitalizing the palate. -
Almond Joy Cocktail: For an adult twist, serve an indulgent cocktail infused with coconut and chocolate flavors, reminiscent of Almond Joy bars.
This delightful drink not only complements the treats but adds a festive touch to gatherings, inviting everyone to celebrate together!
Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best maraschino cherries?
Absolutely! When selecting maraschino cherries, look for ones that are bright in color and firm in texture. Avoid any that appear overly soft or have dark spots, as these may be past their prime. For an extra flavor burst, consider using high-quality brands that contain less artificial coloring and sweetness.
How should I store leftover Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats?
Very simply! Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This method keeps them soft and gooey. If you’d like them to last a bit longer, transfer the container to the fridge; just keep in mind that the texture may become firmer. You can also freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months—just remember to place parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking!
What is the best way to freeze Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats?
I often recommend freezing these delightful treats when I have extras! To do this, cut them into squares and layer them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between each layer. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to avoid freezer burn, and they should stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore their gooey texture!
What if my chocolate layer isn’t smooth?
No worries! If your chocolate mixture turns out grainy, it might be due to overheating. To fix this, try adding a spoonful of vegetable oil (or a splash of cream) to the chocolate, then gently reheat it over low heat. Stir continuously until smooth. Remember, patience is key when melting chocolate!
Can I make these treats gluten-free?
Definitely! To make these Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free Rice Krispies, which are readily available. This small change allows everyone to enjoy the delightful crunch and chocolatey goodness without compromising on flavor!
Are these treats safe for pets?
It's important to keep them away from pets! The ingredients in Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats, especially chocolate and marshmallows, can be harmful to dogs and cats. So, make sure to savor these sweet squares yourself and store them out of reach from your furry friends!
Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies for Irresistible Fun
Equipment
- Large saucepan
- spatula
- 9×13 inch pan
- small saucepan
Ingredients
For the Base
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal The classic crunch that gives these treats their delightful texture.
- 4 cups Mini marshmallows Melts beautifully to bind the mixture together.
- 3 tablespoons Butter Adds richness and helps to melt the marshmallows evenly.
For the Cherry Twist
- 1 cup Maraschino cherries Drained and chopped.
For the Chocolate Layer
- 1 cup Chocolate chips Melting them creates a luscious top layer.
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil Helps the chocolate to melt smoothly.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies
- Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add 4 cups of mini marshmallows and stir until completely smooth and fluffy.
- Remove from heat and gently fold in 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal until coated evenly.
- Fold in 1 cup of chopped maraschino cherries evenly throughout the mixture.
- Grease a 9x13 inch pan lightly and press the mixture evenly into the pan.
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, heating over low heat until melted and smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the cooled Rice Krispies mixture and spread to cover completely.
- Allow the chocolate to set for about 15–20 minutes before cutting into squares.
