There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the combination of marshmallows, caramel, and Rice Krispies. This delightful recipe brings together these beloved ingredients into a sweet, crunchy, and gooey treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just a special snack at home, these Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls are sure to be a hit.
I remember the first time I made these treats for a family get-together. The look of joy on everyone’s faces as they bit into the crispy exterior and discovered the gooey, sweet marshmallow center was priceless. This recipe quickly became a family favorite, requested at every event. The best part? They are incredibly easy to make, even with kids helping out.
Ingredients
7 cups Rice Krispies Cereal
10 ounces large marshmallows
14 ounces Kraft caramels
14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare for Assembly
Line a Baking Sheet: Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will provide a non-stick surface for the finished Rice Krispie balls to set on and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Melt the Caramels
Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the 14 ounces of Kraft caramels, 14 ounces of sweetened condensed milk, and 2 tablespoons of butter.
Heat and Stir: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently to ensure that the caramels melt evenly and the mixture becomes smooth. This process may take around 5-7 minutes. Be patient and keep stirring to prevent the caramel from burning.
Step 3: Coat the Marshmallows
Dip the Marshmallows: Once your caramel mixture is smooth and well combined, it’s time to coat the marshmallows. Use a toothpick to skewer each marshmallow. Dip each marshmallow into the caramel sauce, turning it to ensure it is evenly coated.
Work Quickly: The caramel will start to set as it cools, so work quickly to coat each marshmallow.
Step 4: Roll in Cereal
Prepare the Cereal: Place the 7 cups of Rice Krispies cereal in a large shallow bowl or on a baking sheet for easy rolling.
Roll Marshmallows: Immediately after coating a marshmallow in caramel, roll it in the Rice Krispies cereal until it is completely covered. Use your hands to press the cereal onto the marshmallow if necessary to ensure it sticks well.
Place on Baking Sheet: Place the coated marshmallow on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat the process with the remaining marshmallows.
Step 5: Set to Cool
Remove Toothpicks: Once all marshmallows are coated and rolled in cereal, carefully remove the toothpicks.
Allow to Set: Let the Rice Krispie balls set on the parchment paper for about 30 minutes. This will help them hold their shape and keep the caramel from being too sticky when served.
Step 6: Serving Suggestions
Serve as Is: These Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls are fantastic on their own. Their sweet and crunchy texture makes them an irresistible treat.
Pair with Ice Cream: For an extra special dessert, serve these Rice Krispie balls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast between the cold ice cream and the chewy caramel is simply divine.
Festive Touch: To make these treats even more festive, sprinkle some colored sugar on top or drizzle with melted chocolate before they set. This adds a decorative touch and an extra layer of flavor.
Variations & Tips
Different Flavors: Experiment with different flavors by using flavored marshmallows or adding a drop of vanilla or almond extract to the caramel mixture.
Healthy Twist: For a slightly healthier version, you can use brown rice cereal and organic marshmallows. You can also reduce the amount of sugar by using a sugar-free caramel sauce.
Nuts and Seeds: Add a bit of crunch and nutrition by rolling the caramel-coated marshmallows in a mixture of Rice Krispies and chopped nuts or seeds.
Make-Ahead: These treats can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. They keep well for several days, making them perfect for party planning.
Kid-Friendly Activity: This recipe is a fun and safe way to get kids involved in the kitchen. They will enjoy rolling the marshmallows in the cereal and seeing the transformation from simple ingredients to delightful treats.
Conclusion
Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls are a perfect blend of simplicity and delight. The sweet, gooey caramel paired with the crisp Rice Krispies creates a treat that’s both nostalgic and irresistible. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or just to enjoy a sweet snack at home, they are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction.
This recipe is not only easy and quick to make, but it also offers endless possibilities for customization. From adding different flavors to incorporating nuts and seeds, you can adapt these treats to suit your preferences. Plus, they are a great activity for kids, making them a fun family project.
Enjoy these delightful Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls and share the joy with friends and family. They’re a simple way to bring a bit of sweetness into your day!