Fruity Pebbles Marshmallow Treats

These Fruity Pebbles marshmallow treats bring a burst of color and playful sweetness that’s hard to resist. They come together quickly with just a few ingredients and are perfect for brightening up any party, picnic, or casual get-together. The combination of gooey marshmallows and crunchy fruity cereal creates a nostalgic, fun snack that both kids and adults will enjoy.

I first made these treats for an Easter gathering, and their cheerful colors never fail to spark smiles and fond memories of family fun.

Ingredients

• Fruity Pebbles breakfast cereal: 8 cups which provides the signature fruity crunch and vivid colors. Look for a fresh, crisp box for best texture
• Mini marshmallows: 1 bag 10 ounces that melt easily to bind the cereal and add gooey sweetness. Fresh mini marshmallows melt more smoothly than old or stale ones
• Unsalted butter: 5 tablespoons to add richness and help create a smooth marshmallow mixture. Choose high quality butter for the best flavor
• Pure vanilla extract: Half teaspoon enhances the sweetness and adds depth to the flavor. Opt for pure vanilla for authentic taste
• Fine sea salt: Half teaspoon balances the sweetness and heightens overall flavors
• Cooking oil spray or butter: for greasing the pan and utensils preventing sticking and making clean-up easier

Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Coat a 9 by 13 inch baking pan thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray or butter. This step helps your treats release easily and keeps the pan clean. Don’t skip it, or the bars might stick and break apart.

Melt Butter:

Place the unsalted butter in a large pot over low heat. Stir occasionally to help it melt evenly. Avoid overheating as browning butter will change the flavor and affect the marshmallow texture.

Add Marshmallows:

Add the mini marshmallows to the melted butter. Stir constantly with a silicone spatula until the marshmallows are fully melted and smooth. Work gently and patiently to avoid scorching the mixture, which would make it grainy and less pleasant.

Incorporate Vanilla and Salt:

Stir in the vanilla extract followed by the fine sea salt. This rounds out the sweetness and adds a subtle complexity to the treats. Mix thoroughly to distribute evenly.

Combine with Cereal:

Remove the pot from heat immediately. Pour in all the Fruity Pebbles cereal and gently fold it into the marshmallow mixture. Use a spatula and fold swiftly yet carefully to ensure every cereal flake is coated without crushing the delicate pieces.

Press into the Pan:

Transfer the coated cereal mixture to your prepared pan. Using a buttered spatula, a piece of wax paper, or lightly grease your hands to press the mixture evenly into the pan. Press gently to keep the treats soft and chewy rather than dense or hard.

Cool and Cut:

Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for at least one hour. Once set, cut into squares or bars using a sharp knife or a bench scraper. Lightly grease your cutting tool before slicing to make clean edges and prevent sticking.

I am particularly fond of the fruity cereal itself it brings back childhood memories of Saturday morning cartoons and lazy weekends. Sharing these treats reminds me of those simple joys and the way food connects us across generations.

Storage Tips

Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature. Keeping them out of the fridge prevents them from becoming too firm or hard. If you want to save them longer, wrap individual bars tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature before serving to regain the perfect chewy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap unsalted butter for coconut oil to make these dairy-free. Coconut oil adds a subtle tropical note and keeps the treats chewy yet slightly firmer. Replace mini marshmallows with marshmallow fluff for an even gooier and smoother texture. Try mixing Fruity Pebbles with other fruit-flavored crisp rice cereals for fun color and flavor combinations.

Serving Suggestions

Drizzle cooled bars with melted white chocolate for an elegant touch. Sprinkle colorful sprinkles on top to amp up the fun factor, perfect for children’s parties or festive occasions. Serve alongside vanilla ice cream or a tangy citrus sorbet to balance the sweetness and add a refreshing contrast.

These colorful treats are quick to make and ideal for sharing at parties or snack time. Enjoy the bright flavors and the smiles they bring.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Why are my treats too hard or dense?

Pressing the mixture too firmly or overheating marshmallows can cause hardness. Gently press mixture to keep bars light and chewy.

→ Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini?

Yes, chop regular marshmallows into small pieces for quicker melting and smooth incorporation.

→ Do these need to be refrigerated?

Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain softness; refrigeration may harden the bars.

→ How can I prevent sticking when cutting the bars?

Lightly grease your knife or bench scraper before cutting, or use parchment paper to lift out the slab cleanly.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

Coconut oil can replace butter for a dairy-free option, adding a subtle tropical aroma and slightly firmer texture.