Who doesn’t love a delicious, crunchy, and sweet treat? Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats combine everything you crave in a dessert: the satisfying crunch of Rice Krispies, the smoothness of chocolate, and the juicy burst of cherries. These sweet treats are not only perfect for a family gathering, but they also make a great homemade gift! Ready to dive into this sweet world? Let’s break it down.
Introduction to Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats
What Are Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats?
Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are a fun and indulgent twist on the classic Rice Krispies treat. You know, the ones made with crispy cereal, marshmallows, and butter, right? Well, imagine coating them with rich chocolate and adding a sweet cherry to the mix! These treats are super simple to make, but oh-so-tasty. Whether you’re baking for a holiday or just treating yourself, these treats are bound to become your new favorite go-to.
Why Are They a Favorite Among Dessert Lovers?
So why do people love Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats so much? Well, first off, it’s that amazing texture combo. You get the crunchy Rice Krispies, the chewy marshmallows, and then the chocolate coating adds a silky richness. Not to mention the cherries—whether you use sweet maraschino cherries or fresh ones, they add the perfect burst of fruity flavor to balance the sweetness of the marshmallows. Plus, they’re easy to make, customizable, and sure to impress anyone with a sweet tooth!
Ingredients and Preparation
Essential Ingredients
To make these Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats, you don’t need much. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rice Krispies Cereal
This is the crispy base. It’s what gives the treat its satisfying crunch. - Marshmallows
These make the treat chewy and sweet. You’ll want to melt them down to make the perfect base for the crispy cereal. - Butter
This helps melt the marshmallows and adds a bit of richness. - Chocolate
You’ll need this to coat your treats. You can use dark, milk, or white chocolate, depending on your taste. - Cherries
Maraschino cherries are the easiest to use, but you can also go with fresh cherries. They add a juicy pop of flavor.
Optional Additions
You can also get creative with your treats! Here are a few optional ingredients to consider:
- Nuts
Walnuts, almonds, or pecans give an extra crunch. - Flavorings
A little vanilla or almond extract can take these treats to the next level.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Now, let’s put everything together! Here’s how to make Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats:
- Melt the Marshmallows
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir until they’re smooth and melted. - Mix in the Rice Krispies
Once the marshmallows are melted, add the Rice Krispies. Stir gently until every piece is covered in that gooey marshmallow mixture. - Add Cherries and Optional Ingredients
Chop your cherries and fold them into the mix. If you’re using nuts or flavorings, now’s the time to add them in. - Press Into a Pan
Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch pan. Use a spatula or your hands (with a bit of butter) to press it down evenly. Let it cool for about 30 minutes. - Coat with Chocolate
Melt your chocolate and pour it over the cooled Rice Krispies treats. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Once coated, let the chocolate set for about 10 minutes.
And that’s it! You’ve got yourself a tray of Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats ready to enjoy!
Variations and Customizations
Different Types of Chocolate Coatings
You can really play around with the chocolate coating. Here are a few options:
- Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is rich and a bit bitter. It balances the sweetness of the marshmallows and cherries. It’s perfect if you want a grown-up twist on this treat. - Milk Chocolate
Milk chocolate is creamy and sweet. It melts beautifully and adds a rich, smooth layer. Great for those who love sweetness! - White Chocolate
White chocolate is sweet and smooth. It has a milder flavor than milk or dark chocolate. It also gives a nice contrast to the darker colors of the other ingredients.
Incorporating Different Types of Cherries
Cherries are the star of the show in these treats. You can choose the type you prefer:
- Maraschino Cherries
These are the classic choice. They’re sweet, colorful, and easy to find. - Fresh Cherries
Fresh cherries bring a tart and juicy taste. They add a refreshing twist to the treat. Just be sure to remove the pits! - Dried Cherries
Dried cherries are chewy and packed with flavor. They give a bit of extra sweetness without being too overpowering.
Adding Nuts and Other Mix-ins
Want to make your treats even more exciting? Try adding:
- Nuts
Almonds, walnuts, or pecans are all great options. They add crunch and flavor that perfectly complements the chocolate and cherries. - Coconut Flakes
For a tropical touch, sprinkle in some shredded coconut. It adds texture and a sweet, nutty flavor. - Candy Pieces
You can toss in colorful M&Ms or sprinkles to make them more fun and eye-catching.
Dietary Modifications
Making treats that fit specific diets? You can still enjoy these delights with a few swaps:
- Gluten-Free Options
You can use gluten-free Rice Krispies to keep things safe for anyone with a gluten intolerance. - Vegan Alternatives
If you’re vegan, simply swap the butter and marshmallows for dairy-free options. You can also use non-dairy chocolate for a completely vegan treat.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats. Feel free to get creative! Next, we’ll dive into some fun ways to serve and present your treats, making them even more appealing.
Serving and Presentation
Creative Serving Ideas
These treats are not just tasty—they can be fun to serve too! Here are some ideas:
- Individual Portions
Cut your treats into small, bite-sized pieces. This makes them easy to share and perfect for parties or picnics. - Dessert Platters
Arrange the treats neatly on a nice plate or tray. It’s a simple but effective way to make them look more elegant. You can even add some fruit or extra chocolate around them for a fancy touch!
Pairing with Beverages
The right drink can make these treats even better. Here are some great pairings:
- Coffee
A cup of hot coffee pairs perfectly with these sweet treats. The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the chocolate and marshmallows. - Milk
You can’t go wrong with good old milk! The creamy texture and coolness of milk complement the chocolate and Rice Krispies. - Iced Tea
If you want something lighter, try iced tea. It’s refreshing and doesn’t overpower the sweetness of the treats.
Packaging for Gifts
These treats make a great homemade gift. Here’s how to package them:
- Cellophane Bags
Wrap your treats in a clear cellophane bag. Tie it with a ribbon for a cute, gift-worthy presentation. - Decorative Boxes
If you want to go the extra mile, place your treats in a small gift box. You can even line it with colorful tissue paper for a special touch.
Now that we’ve covered fun serving ideas and packaging tips, your Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are ready to shine! Next, we’ll explore some FAQs to answer any burning questions you might have.
FAQs
How Long Do Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats Last?
These treats can last up to a week if stored properly. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also store them in the fridge for extra freshness, but let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Can I Use Different Types of Cereal?
Yes! While Rice Krispies are the classic choice, you can try other cereals. Cornflakes or puffed rice work just as well. The texture might change slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Can I Make These Treats Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make these treats a day or two ahead of time. Just make sure they’re stored in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They’re even great for prepping in advance for parties or holidays!
Can I Freeze Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats?
Yes, you can freeze them. Wrap the treats tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to a month. When ready to eat, just let them thaw at room temperature.
What Other Mix-ins Can I Add to These Treats?
You can add many different mix-ins to make these treats your own. Try adding chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, or even crushed cookies. The options are endless!
Tips for Perfecting Your Treats
Be Careful When Melting Marshmallows
When melting the marshmallows, don’t rush! Use low heat and stir gently. If the heat is too high, the marshmallows might burn or become lumpy. Take your time to get that smooth, gooey consistency.
Press Firmly But Don’t Overdo It
When pressing the mixture into the pan, make sure it’s evenly spread. Press firmly, but don’t smash it too hard. You want a firm texture, but not too compact. It will help the treats hold together without becoming too dense.
Let the Chocolate Set Before Cutting
After coating your treats with chocolate, let them cool and set before cutting. If you cut them too soon, the chocolate might melt and make a mess. Give them about 10-15 minutes to set, and then enjoy your perfect, glossy treats!
Use a Sharp Knife for Clean Cuts
For neat and even pieces, use a sharp knife. If your knife is too dull, the treats might get squished while you cut. A clean cut gives your treats a nice, tidy look.
Experiment with Different Toppings
Feel free to top your treats with extras. Sprinkles, crushed nuts, or even a drizzle of extra chocolate can add a fun touch. Be creative and have fun!
Conclusion
Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are a fun, sweet, and easy dessert. They combine the crunch of Rice Krispies, the sweetness of marshmallows, the richness of chocolate, and the juicy burst of cherries. Whether you make them for a holiday, a special occasion, or just for yourself, they’re sure to be a hit.
By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, you can customize your treats in many ways. Try different types of chocolate, mix in nuts, or even experiment with other cereals. With so many variations, you can make these treats just the way you like.
So go ahead and get creative! Whether you’re serving them at a party or gifting them to a friend, these treats are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Enjoy the process, and most importantly—enjoy the sweet, chocolaty, cherry-filled goodness!
PrintChocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 1x
Description
Crunchy, chewy, and chocolatey—these treats are the perfect mix of textures and flavors! The combination of crispy Rice Krispies, gooey marshmallows, rich chocolate, and juicy cherries makes this dessert an irresistible favorite. Perfect for parties, gifts, or a sweet indulgence at home!
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 10 oz mini marshmallows
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped (or fresh pitted cherries)
- 1 ½ cups melted chocolate (milk, dark, or white)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Melt the Marshmallows – In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter. Add marshmallows and stir until smooth.
2️⃣ Mix in the Rice Krispies – Remove from heat and quickly stir in Rice Krispies until evenly coated.
3️⃣ Add Cherries & Extras – Fold in chopped cherries and any optional mix-ins like nuts or vanilla.
4️⃣ Press into a Pan – Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch pan. Gently press down with a spatula. Let cool for 30 minutes.
5️⃣ Coat with Chocolate – Melt chocolate and pour over the cooled treats. Spread evenly and let it set.
6️⃣ Cut & Enjoy! – Once the chocolate is firm, slice into squares and serve!
Notes
1️⃣ Pat Dry the Cherries – If using maraschino or fresh cherries, make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel before mixing them in. Too much moisture can make the treats soggy.
2️⃣ Melt Marshmallows on Low Heat – Keep the heat low while melting the marshmallows to avoid a tough, chewy texture. Stir constantly for a smooth, gooey consistency.
3️⃣ Let Chocolate Fully Set – After coating the treats with chocolate, allow them to cool completely before cutting to prevent smudging or messiness. Placing them in the fridge for 10-15 minutes can speed up the process!
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 10 min