Introduction
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth, these Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are your go-to. Imagine the crunchy, gooey goodness of Rice Krispies treats combined with the rich flavor of chocolate and the sweet-tart bite of cherries. It’s a match made in dessert heaven!
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just someone who loves simple, tasty recipes, this one is for you. Not only are these treats super fun to make, but they’re also crowd-pleasers that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are the perfect mix of flavors and textures that will take your dessert game to the next level. The gooey marshmallow base, crispy cereal, luscious chocolate coating, and bursts of cherry flavor make each bite truly special. Plus, they’re easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, so you won’t spend hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy days, family gatherings, or just a little treat-yourself moment!
Ingredients
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
10 oz mini marshmallows
3 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 (10 oz) jar maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
2 cups semisweet or milk chocolate chips
1 tbsp coconut oil (optional, for smooth melting)
Directions
Prepare a 9×13-inch pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until fully coated with the marshmallow mixture.
Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the Rice Krispies mixture.
Press the mixture into the prepared pan using a spatula or lightly greased hands. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
Drizzle or spread the melted chocolate over the top of the Rice Krispies layer. You can fully coat the top or create a fun drizzle pattern.
Let the chocolate set by placing the pan in the fridge for about 20 minutes.
Notes and Tips
To make sure your Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats turn out perfectly, here are a few helpful tips and tricks:
- Pressing the Mixture: When pressing the Rice Krispies mixture into the pan, don’t press too hard. Compressing them too much can make the treats hard and tough to bite into. Lightly press for that perfect chewy texture.
- Melting the Marshmallows: Be patient when melting the marshmallows on low heat. If you melt them too quickly on high heat, they might scorch or give your treats a slightly burnt flavor. Slow and steady is key for a smooth, gooey marshmallow base.
- Chocolate Layer: For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. You can also try white chocolate for a different twist.
- Cherry Options: If you’re not a fan of dried cherries, you can substitute them with dried cranberries, chopped maraschino cherries, or even freeze-dried raspberries for a fruity variation.
- Cutting the Treats: To get clean, even squares, wait until the chocolate is fully set before cutting. Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts to prevent sticking.
- Storage: Store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them if you prefer the chocolate to stay firm.
Nutritional Information & Health Benefits
While these Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are undeniably a sweet indulgence, they do offer some surprising benefits thanks to the ingredients. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll find in each serving:
Nutrient | Approximate Amount (per serving) |
---|---|
Calories | 180-200 kcal |
Total Fat | 8g |
Saturated Fat | 4.5g |
Carbohydrates | 28g |
Sugars | 18g |
Protein | 2g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sodium | 80mg |
Health Benefits
Dried Cherries: Cherries are packed with antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and anthocyanins, which can help reduce inflammation and boost overall health. They also provide a nice amount of fiber, helping with digestion.
Rice Krispies Cereal: Although it’s primarily a simple carb, Rice Krispies are low in calories and fat, making it a light base for the treats. Adding a bit of fiber through the dried cherries balances the carbs for a more satisfying snack.
Dark Chocolate Option: If you opt for dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet, you’ll be introducing flavonoids, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits. Dark chocolate may also improve brain function and help reduce stress levels.
Moderation is Key: These treats are best enjoyed as a dessert or snack in moderation, as they contain sugars and fats. But with the right balance, they can certainly be part of a well-rounded diet, especially when shared with family and friends!
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries?
While fresh cherries have their own delicious appeal, they contain a lot of moisture, which could make the Rice Krispies treats soggy. Dried cherries are ideal because they provide that sweet, tart flavor without altering the texture. However, if you really want to use fresh cherries, make sure to pit and chop them finely, and use them sparingly to avoid making the treats too wet.
2. How can I prevent the chocolate from cracking when cutting?
To avoid cracking the chocolate layer, make sure the chocolate isn’t too thick on top of the treats. Also, allow the treats to come to room temperature if they’ve been in the fridge before cutting. A sharp knife warmed by running it under hot water (and dried off) can make smoother cuts without cracking the chocolate.
3. Can I make these treats gluten-free?
Yes! Just make sure you use a gluten-free brand of puffed rice cereal. Rice Krispies themselves often contain malt flavoring, which isn’t gluten-free, but there are plenty of alternative brands that offer gluten-free versions.
4. How long do these treats last?
These treats can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but keep in mind that the texture might change slightly, especially the chocolate layer, which can become firmer when chilled.
5. Can I freeze Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. They’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat them, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Helpful Reviews
Here are some glowing reviews from those who’ve tried the Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats and loved them:
“These are my new favorite snack! The combination of chewy cherries and crispy cereal, all coated in chocolate, is simply irresistible. My kids couldn’t get enough!” – Sarah L.
“I made these for a holiday party, and they were the first dessert to disappear! The dried cherries add such a nice pop of flavor, and the chocolate coating makes them extra indulgent. A must-try!” – David R.
“I was skeptical about the cherry and chocolate combo at first, but wow, was I wrong! It’s like a gourmet twist on a childhood classic. Super easy to make and delicious!” – Emma T.
“I love how quick and simple this recipe is, and it’s a hit every time. The sweet and tart cherries with rich chocolate are perfection. Definitely adding this to my go-to treat list!” – Jessica M.
Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats
Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats, a delicious twist on the classic treat with gooey marshmallows, dried cherries, and a rich chocolate coating. Perfect for parties or quick desserts!”
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12–15 squares 1x
Ingredients
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
10 oz mini marshmallows
3 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 (10 oz) jar maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
2 cups semisweet or milk chocolate chips
1 tbsp coconut oil (optional, for smooth melting)
Instructions
Prepare a 9×13-inch pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until fully coated with the marshmallow mixture.
Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the Rice Krispies mixture.
Press the mixture into the prepared pan using a spatula or lightly greased hands. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
Drizzle or spread the melted chocolate over the top of the Rice Krispies layer. You can fully coat the top or create a fun drizzle pattern.
Let the chocolate set by placing the pan in the fridge for about 20 minutes.
Notes
- Pressing the Mixture: When pressing the Rice Krispies mixture into the pan, don’t press too hard. Compressing them too much can make the treats hard and tough to bite into. Lightly press for that perfect chewy texture.
- Melting the Marshmallows: Be patient when melting the marshmallows on low heat. If you melt them too quickly on high heat, they might scorch or give your treats a slightly burnt flavor. Slow and steady is key for a smooth, gooey marshmallow base.
- Chocolate Layer: For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. You can also try white chocolate for a different twist.
- Cherry Options: If you’re not a fan of dried cherries, you can substitute them with dried cranberries, chopped maraschino cherries, or even freeze-dried raspberries for a fruity variation.
- Cutting the Treats: To get clean, even squares, wait until the chocolate is fully set before cutting. Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts to prevent sticking.
- Storage: Store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them if you prefer the chocolate to stay firm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: USA
- Diet: Low Fat
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12-15 squares
- Calories: 180-200 kcal
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 2g
Keywords: Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats