There’s something so nostalgic about biting into a gooey Rice Krispie treat. And although I remember them from my childhood, they are not something I have had in many years. Until now that is. This healthy, homemade Rice Krispie recipe is a new favorite in our house.
Rice Krispie treats from the store tend to be a little tough and not as fresh. You’ll find ingredients like corn syrup, genetically modified soybean oil, artificial flavors, and acetylated monoglycerides… whatever it is. And many of the homemade Rice Krispies treats, while they taste good, aren’t much healthier.
An Improved Rice Krispies Recipe
One of the questions I get all the time is how to use my homemade marshmallow recipe to make Rice Krispie treats. And honestly, that’s not something I’ve ever tried. For years my family avoided grains because I was in a healing phase. Now that grains are occasionally returning to my diet, that means I’ve been experimenting with more grain-based recipes.
Of course, this doesn’t mean you’re eating glyphosate-coated, artificially fortified white flour all the time. It’s all about balance, but I still choose healthier options when I can. So for this recipe, that means name brand (or store brand) rice crispy cereal is out. Instead, I used sprouted brown rice cereal.
Yes, it’s still grain and not as nutritious as a grass-fed steak, but I’m fine with it as an occasional treat. Sprouted cereals are easier for our body to digest. This cereal is organic, non-GMO, and sweetened with just a touch of coconut sugar. I’ve linked the type I used in the recipe below, but you can also use organic rice cereal from your local store if that’s all they have.
Homemade Marshmallows
The base of my marshmallow recipe is sweetened with honey instead of sugar. They contain grass-fed, gut-healthy gelatin and real marshmallow root for more gut-soothing benefits. I’ve experimented over the years with variations like elderberry marshmallows, matcha, and even hibiscus rose.
The marshmallow portion of the Rice Krispie Treats recipe is very similar, but you don’t need to press them into a pan and let them sit first. After you whip up the marshmallow mixture, simply add it to the melted butter and add the cereal.
Homemade Rice Krispie Treat Variations
The kids and I love this recipe as is. In fact, the first time I made a batch, the kids devoured them within minutes! However, you can also add some ingredients if you want a different flavor.
Try sprinkling some flaky sea salt on top for a sweet and salty treat. Or drizzle the top with melted dark chocolate (and then sprinkle with salt!). Sometimes I gently press mini chocolate chips into the top before they have really hardened. Work quickly with this one or you’ll end up with melted chocolate all over your hand! I haven’t tried it here, but some people like to add ¼ cup of creamy peanut butter when they add the marshmallows to the butter.
For another depth of flavor, try browning the butter first before adding the marshmallows. It gives it a caramel flavor! I go into more detail on how to brown the butter in this Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Cookie recipe.
Here’s how to make healthier, naturally sweetened rice treats with homemade marshmallows!
Rice Krispie Treats Recipe (with Homemade Marshmallows)
This healthier, naturally sweetened version of rice krispie treats is a favorite with kids (and parents!).
Homemade marshmallow base
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Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
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Pour ½ cup cold water into the bowl of a stand mixer. Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the water and let it sit while you prepare the honey syrup.
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In a small saucepan, combine the remaining ½ cup water, honey, and sea salt.
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Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Simmer for 7-8 minutes, until slightly thickened.
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Turn the mixer on to low speed. Carefully and slowly pour the hot honey syrup into the gelatin mixture.
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Gradually increase mixer speed to high. Beat for 8 to 10 minutes, until thick, shiny, fluffy and marshmallow-like. Add the vanilla extract during the last minute of mixing.
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While the marshmallow is whisking, melt the butter in a large pot over low heat.
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Add the whipped marshmallow mixture to the melted butter and stir until combined.
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Fold in the crispy rice cereal until evenly coated.
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Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Using lightly buttered hands or a piece of parchment paper, gently press into an even layer.
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Sprinkle with flaked sea salt if desired. Let cool for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.
Nutritional data
Rice Krispie Treats Recipe (with Homemade Marshmallows)
Amount per serving (1 square)
calories 135
Calories from fat 27
% Daily Value*
Fat 3g5%
Saturated fat 2g13%
Trans fat 0.1 g
Polyunsaturated fat 0.2g
Monounsaturated fat 1g
Cholesterol 8mg3%
Sodium 118mg5%
Potassium 26mg1%
carbohydrates 26g9%
Fiber 0.1g0%
Sugar 18g20%
Protein 2g4%
vitamin a 786 IU16%
vitamin c 7mg8%
Calcium 4mg0%
Iron 3mg17%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
- The optional flaky sea salt makes it an amazing salty treat.
- Try drizzling the top with a little melted dark chocolate for a more decadent dessert.
How to Store Homemade Rice Krispie Treats
Homemade Rice Krispie Treats are best kept at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container and enjoy them within 4-5 days. However, if your house is like mine, they won’t last long!
What are your favorite Rice Krispie treat flavors? Have you ever made them before? Leave a comment and share below!
