Magical Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Bars

If you’re looking for a fun and easy dessert that will bring a touch of nostalgia to your gatherings, look no further than Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Treats. These delightful squares are a playful twist on the classic Rice Krispie treats, thanks to the colorful and whimsical addition of Lucky Charms cereal. The combination of gooey marshmallows, crispy Rice Krispies, and chewy Lucky Charms marshmallows creates a textural symphony that will have everyone reaching for more.

I first discovered these Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Treats last St. Patrick’s Day, and they quickly became a favorite in my dessert rotation. Perfect for potlucks, impromptu get-togethers, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home, these treats are a hit with kids and adults alike. The magic of these squares lies in their simplicity and the way they evoke fond memories of Saturday morning cartoons and childhood snacks. So, whip up a batch of these Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Treats and get ready to reclaim a piece of your childhood, one colorful marshmallow at a time.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy dessert for last-minute gatherings or potlucks
• Nostalgic twist with colorful Lucky Charms cereal and traditional Rice Krispie treat base
• Versatile recipe with creative variations like using Cinnamon Toast Crunch or adding white chocolate chips
• Maintains perfect texture when stored at room temperature, improving overnight as flavors meld and marshmallows soften

Why You’ll Love This Magical Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Bars Recipe

• Nostalgic Twist: Brings back memories of childhood with the colorful Lucky Charms cereal and gooey marshmallows, perfect for adults looking to reclaim a bit of their youth.
• Quick and Easy: Ideal for last-minute gatherings or when you’re craving a sweet treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Irresistible Texture: The mix of crunchy cereal and chewy marshmallows creates a satisfying contrast that keeps you coming back for more.
• Crowd Pleaser: A hit at potlucks, birthday parties, or any event – they disappear fast, so be prepared to make a double batch!
• Customizable: Endless variations to suit different tastes – from adding white chocolate chips for extra decadence to using holiday-themed Lucky Charms for a festive touch.
• Versatile Presentation: Cut into shapes for various occasions, add sprinkles for extra flair, or drizzle with white chocolate ganache for a more sophisticated look.
• Make-ahead Friendly: Improves overnight as flavors meld together, making them a great option for planning ahead.

Ingredients for Magical Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Bars

For the Treats

• 16 ounces marshmallows (large or small)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup Rice Krispies cereal
• 6 cups Lucky Charms cereal
• ½ teaspoon salt

How to Make Magical Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the pan

Prepare a 9″ x 9″ pan by greasing it with butter, nonstick cooking spray, or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep in mind that using a square pan will yield thicker treats, while a rectangular pan will yield thinner treats.

Step 2: Melt the marshmallows

Coat a large mixing bowl with cooking spray, then place the marshmallows in the bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals until they are melted and puffy. Alternatively, melt them in a large saucepan on the stovetop.

Step 3: Add butter and salt

Combine the butter and salt with the melted marshmallows until smooth. Grease spatula with cooking spray for easier mixing.

Step 4: Mix in cereals

Set aside some of the colorful Lucky Charms marshmallows for garnishing. Gradually mix Lucky Charms and Rice Krispies cereals into the melted marshmallow mixture, adding one cup at a time and stirring well after each addition.

Step 5: Press into pan

Transfer the cereal mixture to the prepared baking dish and press into an even layer using a spatula. Coat clean hands with cooking spray to firmly press the mixture into the corners.

Step 6: Add topping and set

Sprinkle the saved Lucky Charms marshmallows over the warm treats. Allow them to cool in the pan until reaching room temperature, or freeze for 20 minutes for a quick set.

Step 7: Cut and serve

Use a knife to loosen the treats from the edges of the pan, then lift them out and cut into 9 equal squares. Serve right away or store for later.

Storage Tips

After making a batch of Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Treats, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their best texture and flavor. These treats are best kept in an airtight container at room temperature. If you need to stack them, place parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking. Surprisingly, these treats actually improve overnight as the Lucky Charms marshmallows soften slightly, creating that perfect chewy contrast to the crispy cereal. Avoid refrigerating them unless your kitchen is extremely hot, as the cold temperature can make them too hard.

For longer storage, consider wrapping individual squares in plastic wrap and then freezing them in a larger container. This method allows you to enjoy these delightful treats for up to a month. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing them for a picnic, or just indulging in a sweet treat at home, proper storage will help keep your Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Treats fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make a slight adjustment to these Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Treats, consider swapping out the unsalted butter for salted butter and reducing the added salt in the recipe. The salted butter can bring a subtle savory note that complements the sweetness of the marshmallows and cereals. Just be mindful of the overall saltiness level, especially if you are using smaller marshmallows that might already contain some salt.

For a potential substitution in the cereal department, you could experiment with using a different type of crispy cereal in place of the Rice Krispies. Cornflakes or crushed graham crackers could provide a similar crunchiness while adding a unique flavor profile to the treats. This swap allows for some creativity in customizing the taste and texture of the bars while maintaining the nostalgic aspect of the original recipe. Just keep in mind the cereal’s texture and how it will interact with the marshmallow mixture to ensure the treats hold together well.

Serving Suggestions

Transform these Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Treats into a whimsical dessert by cutting them into fun shapes using cookie cutters – think shamrocks for St. Patrick’s Day, hearts for Valentine’s, or stars for the Fourth of July. Add a sprinkle of rainbow confetti on top for an extra pop of color before serving. Serve these treats on a platter alongside other childhood favorites like chocolate chip cookies and brownies for a nostalgic dessert table that will delight guests of all ages.

For a more elegant presentation, drizzle these Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Treats with a luscious white chocolate ganache before serving. The creamy sweetness of the ganache pairs perfectly with the crispy-chewy texture of the treats, elevating them to a dessert fit for any special occasion. To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, stacking them with parchment paper in between layers to prevent sticking. Enjoy the treats within a few days for the best texture, or wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month for a sweet treat anytime you need a nostalgic pick-me-up.

FAQs for Magical Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Bars

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter in this recipe?

Yes, you can use salted butter in place of unsalted butter, but remember to adjust the amount of salt added to the recipe accordingly to avoid making the treats too salty.

Can I make these Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Treats in advance?

Yes, these treats can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They actually improve overnight as the Lucky Charms marshmallows soften slightly, creating a perfect chewy contrast to the crispy cereal.

How long can I store these treats for?

To store these treats, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. If stacking, place parchment paper between layers. Avoid refrigerating them unless your kitchen is extremely hot, as the cold can make them too hard. For longer storage, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and freeze in a larger container for up to a month.

What are some creative variations I can try with this recipe?

You can try various creative variations with this recipe. Some ideas include substituting Cinnamon Toast Crunch for the Rice Krispies, adding white chocolate chips to the mixture, using holiday-themed Lucky Charms or seasonal sprinkles, browning the butter for a nuttier flavor, or drizzling white chocolate ganache on top for a more grown-up twist.

Conclusion

As you wrap up your Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Treats baking session, remember that these delightful squares are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a journey back to childhood memories and simpler times. The colorful marshmallows and cereal bring a touch of whimsy to any occasion, whether it’s a potluck, a special celebration, or just a regular day that deserves a bit of sweetness.

So, the next time you need a quick and easy dessert that never fails to impress, turn to these Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Treats. Share them with your loved ones, watch them disappear in a blink of an eye, and revel in the joy they bring. With their chewy, crispy, and oh-so-satisfying texture, these treats are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Here’s to creating new memories and spreading happiness, one marshmallow-filled square at a time. Enjoy your Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Treats!

Magical Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Bars

“Colorful, nostalgic Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Treats – a gooey, crunchy, irresistible twist on a classic dessert that disappears fast!”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time~ undefined

Total Time10 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings9 Servings (9 squares)

Ingredients

For the Treats

• 16 ounces marshmallows (large or small)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup Rice Krispies cereal
• 6 cups Lucky Charms cereal
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the pan: Prepare a 9″ x 9″ pan by greasing it with butter, nonstick cooking spray, or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep in mind that using a square pan will yield thicker treats, while a rectangular pan will yield thinner treats.
2. Melt the marshmallows: Coat a large mixing bowl with cooking spray, then place the marshmallows in the bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals until they are melted and puffy. Alternatively, melt them in a large saucepan on the stovetop.
3. Add butter and salt: Combine the butter and salt with the melted marshmallows until smooth. Grease spatula with cooking spray for easier mixing.
4. Mix in cereals: Set aside some of the colorful Lucky Charms marshmallows for garnishing. Gradually mix Lucky Charms and Rice Krispies cereals into the melted marshmallow mixture, adding one cup at a time and stirring well after each addition.
5. Press into pan: Transfer the cereal mixture to the prepared baking dish and press into an even layer using a spatula. Coat clean hands with cooking spray to firmly press the mixture into the corners.
6. Add topping and set: Sprinkle the saved Lucky Charms marshmallows over the warm treats. Allow them to cool in the pan until reaching room temperature, or freeze for 20 minutes for a quick set.
7. Cut and serve: Use a knife to loosen the treats from the edges of the pan, then lift them out and cut into 9 equal squares. Serve right away or store for later.