Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Recipe

Golden Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Recipe: Sweet Joy

Sweet memories of childhood snacking collide with gooey caramel marshmallow rice krispie balls that promise pure delight.

Nostalgic treats can spark unexpected joy in kitchens everywhere.

Melted marshmallows and crisp rice cereal create a magical combination.

Rich caramel drizzles add a luxurious twist to this classic dessert.

Sticky, crunchy, and utterly irresistible, these bite-sized morsels invite playful indulgence.

Crafting these delectable spheres requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.

You’ll want to make a double batch, trust me.

FAQs

  • Can I use homemade marshmallows for this recipe?

Yes, homemade marshmallows work perfectly and can add a unique flavor to the Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls.

  • How long do these Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they remain fresh for 3-4 days.

  • Is it necessary to use a skewer or fork when dipping marshmallows?

A skewer or fork helps ensure even caramel coating and makes handling marshmallows easier during the dipping process.

  • Can I make these ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! You can prepare these Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls up to two days in advance and keep them refrigerated until serving.

Highlights of Caramel Marshmallow Krispie Balls

  • Craft Quickly: These delightful treats come together in mere minutes, perfect for spontaneous snack cravings or last-minute dessert needs.
  • Customize with Ease: Drizzle chocolate, swap cereals, or add sprinkles to make each batch uniquely yours, allowing endless creative possibilities.
  • Kid-Friendly Fun: Children will love helping roll marshmallows in crispy cereal, turning recipe preparation into an enjoyable family activity that sparks joy and connection.
  • No-Bake Delight: Skip complicated baking steps and enjoy a simple, no-oven-required dessert that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients Needed for Krispie Balls

Main Ingredients:
  • Marshmallows: Soft, puffy confections that serve as the core base for these sweet treats.
  • Rice Krispies Cereal: Crispy rice puffs that provide a crunchy exterior coating for the marshmallow balls.
  • Caramel Bits: Sweet, golden morsels that create a rich, smooth coating for the marshmallows.
Binding and Coating Ingredients:
  • Water: Helps melt the caramel bits into a smooth, dippable consistency.
  • Chocolate (Optional): Adds an extra layer of flavor and decoration to the finished treats.
Preparation Ingredient:
  • Parchment Paper: Provides a non-stick surface for setting the caramel marshmallow rice krispie balls.

How to Make Krispie Balls Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare Baking Surface

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy marshmallow placement and cleanup.

Step 2: Create Caramel Coating

Melt caramel bits with water in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.

Step 3: Skewer Marshmallows

Insert a skewer or fork into each marshmallow, preparing them for the caramel dipping process.

Step 4: Dunk in Caramel

Carefully dip each marshmallow into the warm caramel, ensuring an even and complete coating around the entire marshmallow.

Step 5: Roll in Crispy Goodness

Immediately roll the caramel-covered marshmallow in Rice Krispies cereal, pressing gently to help the cereal adhere to the caramel surface.

Step 6: Set and Cool

Place each coated marshmallow on the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing them to set and cool at room temperature.

Step 7: Optional Chocolate Drizzle

For an extra layer of decadence, melt chocolate and drizzle it over the completed Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls using a spoon or piping bag.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once completely cooled and set, transfer the treats to a serving plate and enjoy these delightful sweet snacks with friends and family.

Expert Tips for Perfect Krispie Balls

  • Lightly grease your hands with cooking spray when rolling marshmallows to prevent sticking and make handling easier.
  • Stir caramel consistently during melting to avoid burning and ensure a silky, even coating on marshmallows.
  • Crush Rice Krispies slightly before coating for better adherence and a more textured exterior.
  • Let caramel cool for a minute after melting to prevent burning marshmallows and achieve a perfect, even layer.
  • Use a spoon or piping bag with a small tip for precise, decorative chocolate lines across the caramel marshmallow balls.

Flavor Twists on Rice Krispie Treats

  • Chocolate Lover's Delight: Replace caramel bits with dark chocolate chips, melting with a touch of cream for a rich coating.
  • Nutty Crunch Edition: Mix crushed almonds or pecans with Rice Krispies for added texture and nutty flavor.
  • Vegan Marshmallow Treats: Use vegan marshmallows, dairy-free caramel sauce, and gluten-free Rice Krispies for a plant-based version.
  • Fruity Summer Spin: Incorporate crushed freeze-dried strawberries or raspberries into the cereal coating for a fruity burst.

Serving Suggestions for Krispie Balls

  • Sweet Dessert Platter: Create a stunning display by arranging these caramel marshmallow balls alongside fresh berries, chocolate shavings, and mint leaves for a gorgeous presentation.
  • Party Treat Centerpiece: Stack the rice krispie balls on a decorative tiered stand for a fun, eye-catching dessert that will wow guests at birthdays or holiday gatherings.
  • Ice Cream Companion: Serve these crispy caramel treats alongside vanilla or chocolate ice cream as a delightful textural contrast, perfect for summer dessert nights.
  • Gift-Worthy Treats: Package these balls in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbons for a homemade gift that looks professional and tastes incredible.

How to Store Krispie Balls

  • Store Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls in an airtight container, layered between parchment paper, for up to 3 days in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent sticking.
  • Wrap each ball individually in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe container, and store for 2-3 weeks. Thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.
  • Keep in a sealed container away from direct sunlight and heat, consuming within 2 days for optimal taste and texture.
  • Warm gently in microwave for 5-10 seconds or let sit at room temperature to soften caramel coating before enjoying.
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Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Recipe

Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Recipe


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4.8 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Homemade caramel marshmallow rice krispie balls blend sweet nostalgia with gooey indulgence. Crispy cereal, melted marshmallows, and drizzled caramel create a delightful treat you’ll savor with each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 cups rice krispies cereal
  • 1 bag (10 ounces / 283 grams) large marshmallows
  • 1 bag (11 ounces / 312 grams) caramel bits or soft caramels

Additional Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons water

Optional Toppings:

  • Melted chocolate for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare a parchment-lined baking sheet to catch the caramel marshmallow treats.
  2. Heat caramel bits with water in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until completely liquefied and glossy.
  3. Pierce a marshmallow with a skewer or fork, ensuring a secure hold for dipping.
  4. Submerge the marshmallow into the warm caramel, rotating to achieve a uniform golden coating.
  5. Immediately roll the caramel-covered marshmallow through Rice Krispies cereal, pressing gently to ensure complete coverage.
  6. Carefully transfer the coated marshmallow to the prepared baking sheet, allowing excess caramel to drip off.
  7. Continue the process with remaining marshmallows, maintaining consistent technique.
  8. For an indulgent finishing touch, melt chocolate and delicately drizzle over the caramel Rice Krispie balls using a spoon or piping bag.
  9. Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to help caramel and chocolate set quickly and maintain crisp texture.

Notes

  • Ensure caramel is smooth and fully melted to create a perfect coating that adheres well to marshmallows.
  • Use room temperature marshmallows for easier skewering and more even caramel coverage.
  • Work quickly when coating and rolling to prevent caramel from hardening before adding Rice Krispies.
  • Experiment with dark or white chocolate drizzle for varied flavor profiles and visual appeal.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Melting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 144
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 70 mg
  • Fat: 3 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 5 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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