Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the perfect blend of gooey caramel, soft marshmallows, and crispy Rice Krispies coming together in one delightful bite. These Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls are the ultimate no-bake treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth while being incredibly easy to make.

I remember the first time I tasted these little gems at a family gathering. My aunt had whipped them up in no time, and they were gone just as quickly. Now, they’re my go-to for parties, holidays, or whenever I want a simple treat that wows everyone.

Why You’ll Love These Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite no-bake dessert. These Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls are equal parts nostalgic and irresistible.

First, they’re incredibly quick and easy to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients and no baking required, you can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes—perfect for last-minute cravings or surprise guests.

The flavor combination is pure magic. The chewy caramel coating pairs perfectly with the fluffy marshmallows and crispy Rice Krispies, creating a delightful mix of textures that keeps you coming back for more.

They’re also wonderfully portable. Whether you’re making these for a bake sale, a party, or as a lunchbox treat, they’re easy to grab and enjoy on the go.

Best of all, they’re a hit with both kids and adults. The fun, bite-sized shape and delicious flavors make these treats perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to cozy nights at home.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe comes together with just a few pantry staples, but each ingredient plays an important role in creating these gooey, crispy delights.

Marshmallows are the heart of this recipe. I recommend using standard-size marshmallows because they’re easier to handle and provide the perfect bite when coated in caramel.

The caramels are what give these treats their rich, buttery coating. Use soft, individually wrapped caramels for convenience. Brands like Kraft work wonderfully here, but any soft caramel will do.

To achieve the perfect consistency, you’ll need a bit of sweetened condensed milk. It adds a creamy richness to the caramel mixture while helping it stay smooth and easy to coat.

Rice Krispies cereal provides the crunch that balances out the soft, chewy caramel and marshmallow. Make sure the cereal is fresh for that perfect crisp texture.

Finally, you’ll need a touch of butter to prevent the caramel from sticking and to create a silky-smooth coating. Unsalted butter works best, but salted can add a hint of contrast if you prefer.

For equipment, all you need is a microwave-safe bowl, parchment paper, and a spoon for coating. It’s that simple!

How to Make Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls

Making these treats is as fun as eating them! The process is simple, but each step ensures a perfectly gooey, crispy result.

Start by unwrapping all of your caramels and placing them in a large, microwave-safe bowl. Add the butter and sweetened condensed milk to the bowl as well. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the caramel mixture is fully melted and smooth. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes total.

While the caramel is melting, prepare your work area. Lay out a sheet of parchment paper and pour the Rice Krispies cereal into a shallow dish or bowl. You’ll want everything ready to go because the caramel can set quickly.

Once your caramel is melted and smooth, it’s time to start dipping! Using a fork or skewer, dip each marshmallow into the warm caramel, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess caramel drip off before rolling the marshmallow in the Rice Krispies cereal. Gently press the cereal onto the caramel to make sure it sticks.

Place each coated marshmallow onto the parchment paper to set. Continue this process with the remaining marshmallows, working quickly before the caramel cools. If needed, reheat the caramel mixture for a few seconds to keep it smooth and easy to work with.

Let the finished treats sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to firm up. The caramel will set, and the Rice Krispies will stay perfectly crispy.

These Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls are ready to enjoy as soon as they’re set! Serve them immediately or store them for later.

Storage Options

These treats are just as easy to store as they are to make. If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house), here’s how to keep them fresh:

Store the Rice Krispie balls in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. Be sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

If you live in a warmer climate or want to store them longer, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just allow them to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving, as the caramel can firm up in the fridge.

For longer storage, these treats can also be frozen. Place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between the layers, and they’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about these Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls is how easy they are to customize. You can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or get creative with fun variations!

• Add a chocolate drizzle: Melt some semi-sweet or milk chocolate and drizzle it over the finished treats for an extra decadent touch.
• Use flavored marshmallows: Try strawberry or chocolate-flavored marshmallows for a fun twist that adds even more flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of sea salt: If you love the sweet-salty combination, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt over the caramel-coated marshmallows before rolling them in Rice Krispies.
• Mix in crushed nuts: Add some finely chopped pecans, almonds, or peanuts to the Rice Krispies for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Make mini bites: Use mini marshmallows instead of full-sized ones to create smaller, poppable treats. Just be sure to adjust the dipping time, as smaller marshmallows can melt more quickly.

The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and make these treats your own. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a fun variation, these Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls are sure to become a favorite in your home!

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