These Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats mix the classic crunch of Rice Krispies with the cozy flavor of pumpkin spice. They’re great for fall and super easy to whip up!
You can’t help but smile when making these! Plus, they stay soft and chewy. I like to sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top for that festive touch. 🎃✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice Krispies Cereal: This is the base of your treats, and if you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free rice cereal. I often use brown rice cereal for a nuttier flavor.
Mini Marshmallows: They melt beautifully to bind everything together. If you have a vegan diet, try using vegan marshmallows instead.
Pumpkin Puree: Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling which is sweetened and spiced. You can also make your own puree by roasting sugar pumpkins. This adds a deeper flavor!
Pumpkin Pie Spice: This spice blend usually contains cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. You can mix your own if needed. If you’re out, cinnamon alone still gives great flavor.
How Do You Get the Right Texture for Your Rice Krispie Treats?
Getting the perfect texture for Rice Krispie Treats is all about the melting process. You want a smooth, well-mixed treat without becoming too hard or sticky.
- Keep your butter on low heat to melt without browning.
- Stir in marshmallows continuously to avoid burning; patience is key!
- Don’t pack them too tightly in the pan to maintain a light treat.
- Let them cool completely to set, this helps maintain that soft, chewy texture.
Following these steps will help you create light and delightful treats, perfect for any fall gathering! Enjoy making them as much as eating them!
How to Make Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows (or about 4 cups)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- Optional: orange and green decorating icing or candy pumpkins for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then an additional 30 minutes to cool and set. So in total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes before enjoying these delightful treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan:
First things first! Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking. This is your canvas for the tasty treats you’re about to create!
2. Melt the Butter:
In a large pot, place the unsalted butter and melt it gently over low heat. Watch it carefully to make sure it doesn’t brown.
3. Add the Marshmallows:
Once the butter is melted, add the mini marshmallows to the pot. Stir continuously until they are completely melted and you have a smooth, gooey mixture. This step is super fun!
4. Mix in the Pumpkin:
Now, stir in your pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Keep mixing until it’s all smooth and evenly combined. It should smell amazing!
5. Combine with Rice Krispies:
Remove your pot from the heat, and add the Rice Krispies cereal right in. Gently stir until all the cereal is coated with that delicious marshmallow mixture. Be a bit gentle, so the cereal stays crunchy!
6. Press into the Pan:
Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. Using a buttered spatula or a piece of wax paper, press the mixture down evenly and firmly into the pan to make sure it sticks together well.
7. Let It Set:
Now it’s time to be patient! Let your treats cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until they are set. This helps them hold together nicely.
8. Cut into Squares:
Once they’re set, take a sharp knife and cut the treats into squares. You can make them as big or small as you like!
9. Decorate (Optional):
If you’re feeling festive, go ahead and decorate the tops of the treats with orange and green icing to create cute little pumpkins, or place candy pumpkins right on top!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
And that’s it! Your delightful Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats are ready to be served. Enjoy them at your next fall celebration or any time you want a sweet, crunchy snack!
These treats combine the classic marshmallow crispiness with the warm flavor of pumpkin spice, making them perfect for all your fall festivities!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned Pumpkin Puree?
Absolutely! You can use fresh pumpkin by roasting a sugar pumpkin, scooping out the flesh, and blending it until smooth. Just make sure to measure out the same amount, using half a cup for this recipe.
How Should I Store Leftover Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them soft, avoid refrigerating them, as that can make them hard over time.
Can I Add Extra Mix-Ins to the Treats?
Of course! Feel free to add mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried cranberries for some extra flavor and texture. Just be cautious not to overload the mixture—about half a cup of mix-ins should work well!
What If My Marshmallow Mixture is Too Stiff?
If you find that your marshmallow mixture is too stiff, it could be because it’s overcooked. To fix this, try adding a splash of water or an additional tablespoon of butter while it’s on low heat, stirring until it’s smooth and more pliable.
