Gooey Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Recipe

Irresistible Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Recipe

Crafting delightful caramel marshmallow rice krispie balls sparks pure joy in every kitchen adventure.

Sweet memories dance through childhood treats with a grown-up twist.

Gooey marshmallows melt into golden caramel, creating irresistible spheres of comfort.

Crispy rice cereal adds the perfect crunch to these delectable bites.

Minimal ingredients and simple steps make this recipe a dream for busy cooks.

Hands will be sticky, smiles will be wide, and satisfaction guaranteed.

You cannot resist these little balls of pure happiness – so let’s get rolling!

Secrets To Perfect Rice Krispie Balls

  • Grease your hands with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticky mixture from clinging while forming balls.
  • Work quickly when mixing marshmallows and cereal to ensure even coating and prevent hardening.
  • Let balls cool completely at room temperature for the best texture and easy handling.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
  • Consider drizzling melted chocolate over cooled balls for an extra decadent twist and added flavor.

Flavorful Variations For Rice Krispie Balls

  • Chocolate Drizzle Balls: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle over cooled rice krispie balls for extra richness.
  • Nutty Crunch Variation: Mix chopped almonds or peanuts into the cereal mixture for added texture and protein.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Replace Rice Krispies with gluten-free crispy rice cereal, ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Vegan Marshmallow Version: Use plant-based butter, vegan marshmallows, and dairy-free caramel to create an animal-product-free treat.

Serving Ideas For Rice Krispie Balls

  • Decadent Dessert Platter: Arrange the caramel marshmallow rice krispie balls on a beautiful wooden board with fresh berries and chocolate drizzle for an elegant presentation.
  • Party Treat Gifts: Package the balls in clear cellophane bags tied with colorful ribbons, perfect for birthday parties or holiday gatherings as cute homemade treats.
  • Chocolate Lover's Delight: Roll the finished balls in melted chocolate or cocoa powder for an extra layer of rich flavor and stunning appearance that will impress guests.
  • Kid-Friendly Fun Station: Create a DIY decorating area where children can roll the balls in sprinkles, crushed nuts, or colorful sugar to personalize their sweet treats.

Keeping Rice Krispie Balls Fresh

  • Store leftover caramel marshmallow rice krispie balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain their shape.
  • Refrigerate for extended freshness, keeping them in a sealed container for up to a week.
  • Bring to room temperature before serving to restore their soft, chewy texture.

FAQs

  • Can I use homemade caramel instead of candies?

Yes, homemade caramel works great. Just ensure it’s thick enough to bind the ingredients together and not too runny.

  • How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands?

Grease your hands with butter or cooking spray before shaping the balls. This helps create smooth, non-sticky balls easily.

  • Are these treats kid-friendly to make?

Absolutely! Kids can help mix ingredients and roll the balls with adult supervision during the heating and caramel melting steps.

  • Can I add extra flavor to these rice krispie balls?

Try mixing in chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or drizzling melted chocolate over the completed balls for added excitement and taste.

Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Treats

  • Craft Sweet Indulgence: These caramel marshmallows rice krispie balls deliver pure dessert bliss with minimal kitchen effort and maximum flavor satisfaction.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for parties, potlucks, and family gatherings where everyone craves a delightful sweet bite that appeals to kids and adults alike.
  • Quick No-Bake Wonder: Requires just a few simple ingredients and basic cooking skills, making it an ideal recipe for beginners or busy home cooks wanting a fast delicious dessert option.
  • Customize with Ease: Flexible treat that allows creative variations like adding chocolate drizzle, sprinkles, or rolling in chopped nuts to match personal taste preferences.

Ingredients For Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls

Base Ingredients:
  • Rice Krispies Cereal: A crispy foundation that provides crunch and structure to the treats.
  • Mini Marshmallows: Soft, sweet binding agent that helps hold the balls together.
  • Caramel Candies: Creates a rich, golden sweetness and helps create a smooth, creamy texture.
Binding Ingredients:
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps melt the caramel and marshmallows smoothly.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.

How To Make Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls

Step 1: Warm Caramel Fusion

Place butter and caramel candies in a saucepan over low heat. Gently stir the mixture until it becomes completely smooth and silky, creating a golden liquid base for your delightful treat.

Step 2: Splash of Flavor

Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly introduce vanilla extract. Stir the liquid thoroughly to distribute the rich, aromatic flavor throughout the caramel mixture.

Step 3: Marshmallow Magic

Swiftly fold in mini marshmallows, allowing them to melt slightly and create a gooey, stretchy texture within the warm caramel base.

Step 4: Crispy Coating

Gently incorporate Rice Krispies cereal into the marshmallow-caramel mixture.

Use a spatula to ensure every single crisp is evenly coated with the sweet, sticky blend.

Step 5: Shape and Form

Lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray.

Carefully roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls, pressing gently to help them hold their shape.

Step 6: Cooling and Setting

Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined tray.

Let them cool and set at room temperature until they become firm and easy to handle, which typically takes about 30 minutes.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once completely cooled and set, arrange the caramel marshmallow rice krispie balls on a serving plate.

These delectable treats are now ready to be devoured and shared with friends and family.

Print
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Gooey Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Recipe

Gooey Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Recipe


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4.6 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Sweet caramel marshmallow rice krispie balls combine childhood nostalgia with gourmet indulgence. Chocolate drizzle and sea salt elevate these bite-sized treats, creating irresistible morsels you cannot wait to savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients:

  • 3 cups rice krispies cereal
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1 cup soft caramel candies

Binding Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) unsalted butter

Flavoring Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Gently melt butter and caramel candies in a medium saucepan over low heat, continuously stirring until a smooth, glossy mixture forms.
  2. Remove the pan from heat and stir in vanilla extract, ensuring even distribution throughout the caramel base.
  3. Swiftly incorporate mini marshmallows into the warm caramel mixture, folding them until they are partially melted and create a cohesive texture.
  4. Gradually fold Rice Krispies cereal into the marshmallow-caramel blend, gently turning to ensure every crisp is evenly coated with the sweet mixture.
  5. Using lightly greased palms, carefully roll the sticky mixture into compact, uniform spheres, applying gentle pressure to help them maintain shape.
  6. Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined surface, allowing them to cool and solidify at room temperature for approximately 15-20 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Prevent sticky hands by keeping palms lightly greased with butter or cooking spray while forming balls.
  • Use salted caramel candies for a deeper flavor profile if traditional caramels seem too sweet.
  • Refrigerate completed balls for 15-20 minutes to help them firm up faster and maintain their round shape.
  • Experiment with drizzling melted chocolate or rolling in chopped nuts for added texture and visual appeal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Melting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 175 kcal
  • Sugar: 16 g
  • Sodium: 45 mg
  • Fat: 4 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1.3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 33 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 1.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 8 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

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