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No Bake Rice Krispie Bites with a Grown-Up Twist

These no bake Rice Krispie bites are a quick, satisfying snack that combines crispy cereal, gooey marshmallows, and a touch of sea salt and dark chocolate for a sophisticated flavor. They come together with minimal effort, resulting in a sticky, crunchy treat with a balance of sweetness and salty richness, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tablespoons butter preferably salted
  • 4 cups mini marshmallows
  • 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal ensure fresh for best crunch
  • 1 pinch sea salt or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional dark chocolate chips for drizzling or mixing in

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Spatula
  • Parchment paper
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Gather all your tools: a large mixing bowl, a saucepan, a spatula, parchment paper, and a sharp knife for cutting.
  2. In the saucepan over low heat, melt the butter gently, stirring constantly until it’s just melted and smells buttery and sweet.
  3. Add the mini marshmallows to the melted butter and stir slowly until they melt completely, creating a smooth, sticky mixture with a sweet aroma and bubbly surface.
  4. Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately pour in the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt, stirring to combine the flavors.
  5. Quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal with your spatula, gently mixing until all the cereal is evenly coated with the sticky marshmallow mixture. The mixture will be thick and slightly glossy.
  6. Transfer the mixture onto a parchment-lined tray and press it down evenly with the back of your spatula or lightly oiled hands, forming a compact layer about 1 inch thick.
  7. Let the mixture rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes, until it’s firm and easy to cut.
  8. Use a sharp knife to cut the set mixture into 12-16 squares or bars, wiping the blade with a damp cloth between cuts for clean slices.
  9. If desired, melt some dark chocolate chips and drizzle over the bites for an extra indulgence or mix some into the cereal before pressing.
  10. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for a chewy, crispy snack that’s perfect for on-the-go munching.

Notes

For an extra flavor twist, consider adding chopped nuts, dried fruit, or a splash of bourbon to the marshmallow mixture. Keep the mixture slightly warm while mixing to prevent it from hardening too quickly.