If you’re craving a quick, no-bake dessert that delivers big chocolate flavor, these Ultimate Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats are exactly what you need. Made with cocoa-flavored crispy rice cereal, gooey marshmallows, and melty chocolate chips, this easy recipe turns a childhood classic into a rich, crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for parties, bake sales, or simple family desserts.
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Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
These chocolate rice krispie treats are everything a great dessert should be: fast, simple, and incredibly satisfying. There’s no oven required, no complicated steps, and no fancy equipment—just a saucepan, a spoon, and a little patience while they set.
The cocoa cereal doubles down on chocolate flavor, while the marshmallows keep the texture soft and chewy instead of dry or crumbly. Adding chocolate chips at the end creates little pockets of melted chocolate throughout, making every bite extra special. Best of all, this recipe is flexible, affordable, and easy to customize for different tastes or occasions.
Whether you’re making a last-minute dessert, baking with kids, or stocking up on sweet snacks for the week, this recipe is a proven winner.
Ingredients for Ultimate Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats
Main Ingredients
- Unsalted butter
- Marshmallows (mini or regular)
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Cocoa Rice Krispies cereal
- Vanilla extract
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
- Butter: Unsalted butter gives you better control over flavor. If using salted butter, skip adding any extra salt.
- Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows melt faster, but regular marshmallows work just as well. Use fresh marshmallows for the best texture.
- Chocolate chips: Semi-sweet is ideal, but milk chocolate makes the treats sweeter, while dark chocolate gives a richer flavor.
- Cocoa Rice Krispies: If you can’t find cocoa cereal, use regular crisped rice cereal and stir in 2–3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder when melting the butter.
- Vanilla extract: This small addition enhances the chocolate flavor without overpowering it.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Pan
Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter. This prevents sticking and makes removing the treats much easier later.
Step 2 – Melt Butter and Chocolate
In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add half of the chocolate chips and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth. Keep the heat low to avoid scorching.
Step 3 – Add Marshmallows
Add the marshmallows to the saucepan and stir until completely melted and glossy. Remove from heat as soon as the mixture is smooth.
Step 4 – Stir in Vanilla
Mix in the vanilla extract quickly while the mixture is still hot. This distributes the flavor evenly.
Step 5 – Add the Cereal
Pour the cocoa rice cereal into the saucepan. Stir gently but thoroughly until every piece of cereal is coated with the chocolate marshmallow mixture.
Step 6 – Fold in Remaining Chocolate Chips
Let the mixture cool for about one minute, then fold in the remaining chocolate chips. This helps them keep their shape instead of melting completely.
Step 7 – Press Into Pan
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Lightly press it down using a spatula or wax paper. Avoid packing it too tightly, or the treats may become hard.
Step 8 – Cool and Slice
Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Once set, lift them out of the pan and cut into squares.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use low heat when melting chocolate to prevent burning.
- Don’t over-stir after adding the cereal—gentle mixing keeps the treats airy.
- Slightly dampen your hands or spatula to prevent sticking while pressing the mixture into the pan.
- For extra softness, add an additional half cup of marshmallows at the end.
- Let the treats cool fully before cutting for cleaner edges.
Flavor Variations
- Peanut Butter Chocolate: Stir in ½ cup creamy peanut butter with the marshmallows.
- Mint Chocolate: Add ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract instead of vanilla.
- Cookies and Cream: Mix in crushed chocolate sandwich cookies.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the top once set.
- Chocolate Sprinkle Crunch: Add chocolate sprinkles or mini chocolate candies for texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chocolate rice krispie treats as a casual dessert, lunchbox treat, or party snack. They pair perfectly with a cold glass of milk, hot cocoa, or coffee. For events, cut them into smaller squares or rectangles for easy grabbing. You can also stack them on a dessert platter with brownies or cookies for a simple dessert spread.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 1 week, but let them sit at room temperature before serving for best texture.
- Freezer: Wrap individual squares tightly and freeze for up to 6 weeks. Thaw at room temperature before eating.
Ultimate Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 squares
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Ultimate Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats are a quick, no-bake dessert made with cocoa rice cereal, gooey marshmallows, and melty chocolate chips for a rich, chewy, crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 10 oz marshmallows (mini or regular)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided
- 6 cups cocoa Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease with butter.
- In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.
- Add half of the chocolate chips and stir until melted and smooth.
- Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and glossy.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the cocoa rice cereal and gently stir until evenly coated.
- Let cool for 1 minute, then fold in the remaining chocolate chips.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared pan and lightly press into an even layer.
- Let cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Slice into squares and serve.
Notes
Use low heat to avoid scorching the chocolate. Do not press the mixture too firmly to keep the treats soft and chewy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~210 |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 34 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 140 mg |
Values are estimates and will vary by brand.
FAQ About Ultimate Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats
Why are my rice krispie treats hard?
Overheating the marshmallows or pressing the mixture too firmly into the pan can cause hard treats. Always use low heat and a gentle touch.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these treats are perfect for making a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I use large marshmallows?
Absolutely. Just be sure to melt them completely before adding the cereal.
How do I keep them soft longer?
Adding extra marshmallows or slightly under-pressing the mixture helps maintain a soft, chewy texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply use a larger pan or two pans and work quickly when mixing to prevent the marshmallow mixture from setting too soon.
Final Thoughts
These Ultimate Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats are a simple yet impressive dessert that never fails to please. With deep chocolate flavor, a chewy texture, and endless customization options, they’re the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re baking with kids or whipping up a fast dessert for guests, this recipe delivers every time.