Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats
These Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are a delightful and indulgent twist on the classic treat. They combine crunchy Rice Krispies with sweet mini marshmallows, chopped maraschino cherries, and a luscious drizzle or dip of semi-sweet chocolate. Perfect for any occasion—from holidays to parties or simply as a sweet snack—these treats are sure to impress everyone!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these treats in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cherries creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Treat: These treats can be customized with different toppings or add-ins to suit any taste.
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into squares and share them at parties, bake sales, or family gatherings.
- No-Bake Goodness: Enjoy the fun of making a sweet treat without turning on the oven.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools for an easy cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Spatula
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for melting butter and marshmallows together evenly.
- Microwave-safe bowl: Perfect for melting chocolate quickly without burning it.
- Spatula: Helps in mixing ingredients thoroughly and pressing down the mixture into the baking dish.
Ingredients
These Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats require the following ingredients:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 10 oz mini marshmallows
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)
How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats
Step 1: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows. Stir continuously until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 2: Combine with Cereal and Cherries
Remove the pot from heat. Quickly stir in the Rice Krispies cereal and chopped maraschino cherries. Mix until fully combined.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the dish. Use a greased spatula to gently press it down into an even layer. Let the treats cool completely.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in 30-second intervals. Stir between intervals until smooth.
Step 5: Drizzle or Dip in Chocolate
Once cooled, drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of the Rice Krispies treats. Alternatively, dip each square halfway into the chocolate. Place them on parchment paper to allow the chocolate to harden.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
After the chocolate has set, slice the treats into squares. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats!
How to Serve Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats
These delightful treats can be served in numerous ways to enhance their enjoyment. Whether you’re at a party or enjoying a cozy night at home, these serving suggestions will make your Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats even more special.
At a Party
- Present them on a decorative platter for an eye-catching display.
- Cut them into fun shapes using cookie cutters for a playful twist.
With Ice Cream
- Pair with vanilla or chocolate ice cream to create a decadent dessert sundae.
- Serve warm Rice Krispies treats alongside cold ice cream for a delightful contrast.
As Party Favors
- Wrap individual squares in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons for guests to take home.
- Label each bag with the treat name and a fun note about the ingredients.
On a Dessert Table
- Arrange them alongside other sweets like brownies, cookies, and cupcakes for an appealing dessert spread.
- Use tiered stands to showcase the treats at varying heights for visual interest.
For Movie Nights
- Serve them in popcorn boxes as a sweet snack option during movie marathons.
- Pair with popcorn and other snacks for a complete cinema experience at home.
How to Perfect Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats
To ensure your Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Make sure your marshmallows and cherries are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overheat chocolate: Melt chocolate slowly to avoid burning. Stir until smooth after each interval.
- Grease your hands: Lightly greasing your hands helps when pressing the mixture into the baking dish without sticking.
- Cool completely: Allow the treats to cool fully before cutting; this helps maintain their shape.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding crushed nuts or sprinkles on top of the chocolate layer for extra crunch and color.
- Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats
While these treats are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness that balances out the sweetness of the treats.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These indulgent bites enhance the chocolate flavor while providing a refreshing contrast.
- Mini Cheesecakes: Creamy cheesecakes offer a rich counterpart that pairs well with cherry flavors.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds lightness and complements the chocolate nicely.
- Nutella Spread: Serve Nutella on the side for those who want an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
- Hot Cocoa Bar: Set up a hot cocoa station with toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, and peppermint sticks for a cozy treat pairing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats can be easy, but there are some common mistakes to watch for.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Ensure you measure each ingredient properly for the best texture and taste. Use dry measuring cups for cereal and liquid measuring cups for melted ingredients.
- Overheating marshmallows: Heating mini marshmallows too long can cause them to become tough. Melt them just until smooth, stirring constantly.
- Forgetting to grease the dish: Not greasing your baking dish can make it hard to remove the treats later. Always grease or line with parchment paper before pouring in the mixture.
- Skipping the cooling time: Rushing the cooling process may lead to uneven cutting. Allow the treats to cool completely before slicing for neat squares.
- Using low-quality chocolate: The chocolate coating is key for flavor. Choose good quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
- These treats stay fresh for up to 1 week.
Freezing Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats
- Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw before serving.
Reheating Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats
- Oven: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Place treats on a baking sheet and warm for 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on low power in 10-second intervals, checking frequently, until warm.
- Stovetop: Place treats in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats.
How do I make Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats more flavorful?
You can enhance flavor by adding a pinch of salt or using flavored extracts like almond extract along with vanilla.
Can I use different types of cherries?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cherries, such as fresh cherries or cherry pie filling, for varied flavors.
Are these treats suitable for special diets?
These treats contain butter and marshmallows, which may not suit all diets. Consider using vegan substitutes if needed.
How long do Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats last?
If stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to a week at room temperature.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are a delightful blend of crunchy and sweet flavors that everyone will love. They are versatile enough for any occasion, from holidays to everyday snacks. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins like nuts or different chocolates!
Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are a scrumptious twist on the classic dessert, combining the delightful crunch of Rice Krispies with sweet mini marshmallows, vibrant maraschino cherries, and a rich semi-sweet chocolate coating. These no-bake treats are easy to make and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday gathering, a party, or simply a sweet snack at home. With their irresistible combination of flavors and textures, these treats will please everyone, young and old alike.
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 10 oz mini marshmallows
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add mini marshmallows and stir until smooth. Mix in vanilla extract.
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in Rice Krispies and chopped cherries until well combined.
- Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the mixture in and press down evenly with a greased spatula. Allow to cool completely.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals until smooth.
- Drizzle or dip cooled treats in melted chocolate, placing them on parchment paper to set.
- Once hardened, slice into squares and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
