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This Mini M&M rice krispie treats recipe is a surefire way to bring a fun, colorful twist to a classic treat. These rice krispie treats have just the right amount of gooey marshmallow and crispy cereal combined with the perfect bite sized bursts of chocolate from the mini M&Ms. They come together quickly without baking, making them the ideal snack or dessert for any occasion.
I first made these treats on a lazy weekend afternoon and was amazed at how everyone loved the little bursts of chocolate throughout every bite. Now they are a staple at our family gatherings and holidays.
Ingredients
- Mini marshmallows: about 10 ounces these melt smoothly and create the gooey texture that holds everything together fresh mini marshmallows work best
- Salted butter: adds rich flavor and helps the marshmallows melt evenly quality butter makes a noticeable difference
- Pure vanilla extract: brings warmth and depth to the flavor, making these treats extra special
- Crispy rice cereal: the foundation for the crunch factor opt for a wellknown brand to ensure a crispy texture
- Mini M&M candies: the star ingredient that delivers colorful chocolatey bites mini size creates the best balance without overpowering the texture
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Melt the butter gently in a large saucepan or microwavesafe bowl. Be careful to keep the heat low enough to prevent burning but warm enough to melt the butter thoroughly.
- Melt the Marshmallows:
- Add the mini marshmallows to the melted butter and heat on the stove or in the microwave. If using the microwave, heat in 15 second increments to avoid overheating. Stir frequently until the marshmallows puff up and are smooth when stirred. Remove quickly from the heat to prevent scorching. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Coat the Cereal Mix:
- Immediately add the crispy rice cereal to the marshmallow mixture. Stir continuously and carefully to coat every piece of cereal evenly with the melted marshmallow. This step is vital to prevent clumps and ensure consistency.
- Fold in the Mini M&Ms:
- Gently fold the mini M&Ms into the mixture, distributing them evenly throughout. Be careful not to crush the candies to maintain their colorful candy shells and chocolate centers intact.
- Press into the Pan:
- Prepare an 8x8inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with butter or cooking spray. Transfer the mixture into the dish and press it firmly but gently with a buttered spatula or your hands (use plastic wrap to avoid sticking). For an extra pop of color and crunch, sprinkle more mini M&Ms on top and press lightly into the surface.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is the way the mini M&Ms keep their crisp candy shell even mixed in. It makes every bite have a satisfying crunch and a burst of color that cheers up any snack table. A family memory I treasure is making these treats with my kids during their school breaks it became our little tradition to mix the M&Ms together and create a mountain of tiny, colorful smiles.
Storage Tips
Store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep them fresh and soft. If keeping longer, wrap them airtight and freeze for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for best texture. Avoid refrigeration if possible because it can harden the marshmallow base and alter the texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have mini M&Ms, regular sized M&Ms work well but keep in mind they are bigger chunks. You could also substitute with colored chocolate chips or candy coated sunflower seeds for a nutfree option. For marshmallows, large marshmallows can be cut into smaller pieces or swapped with marshmallow fluff though the texture will be slightly different.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these treats plain with a cold glass of milk or customize the theme by using seasonal M&Ms such as holiday reds and greens for Christmas. For a party treat, cut into bite sized squares and place on a pretty tray for easy grab and go snacks. They also pair wonderfully with hot chocolate or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
These Mini M&M rice krispie treats are quick to make and perfect for gatherings and celebrations. Keep them stored airtight at room temperature for the best texture.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What type of marshmallows work best?
Mini marshmallows melt evenly and create the perfect gooey texture that binds the crispy cereal.
- → Can regular M&Ms be used instead of mini?
Yes, regular M&Ms can be added but mini ones distribute the chocolate more evenly in each bite.
- → How to keep the treats soft and chewy?
Avoid overheating marshmallows; melt until puffed but still holding shape for a soft texture.
- → Are variations possible with these ingredients?
Adding cocoa powder or swapping the candy colors allows customizing flavor and appearance.
- → What’s the best way to store these treats?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.
- → Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes, preparing them a day in advance is ideal to allow flavors to meld and texture to set.