Description
Delight in these festive Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats that combine the classic crispy marshmallow base with rich milk chocolate and hot chocolate mix, creating a cozy and indulgent twist on a beloved snack. Topped with mini marshmallows, chocolate sprinkles, and crushed candy canes, these treats are perfect for winter gatherings or whenever you crave a sweet, chocolaty crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- ½ cup butter
- ½ cup milk chocolate chips
- ½ cup hot chocolate mix
- 1 bag marshmallows (10 ounces, about 40 large marshmallows)
- 6 cups Rice Krispies Cereal
- ⅓ cup mini marshmallows
Toppings
- Chocolate sprinkles
- Mini marshmallows
- Mini chocolate chips
- Dehydrated marshmallows
- Crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Prepare baking tray: Grease a 9″x13″ baking tray with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Melt butter: Place a large pot on low heat and melt ½ cup butter slowly, ensuring it does not brown.
- Add chocolate chips: Stir in ½ cup milk chocolate chips into the melted butter until fully melted and smooth.
- Mix in hot chocolate: Stir ½ cup hot chocolate mix into the melted chocolate and butter until completely combined for a rich flavor.
- Melt marshmallows: Add the bag of marshmallows (10 ounces) and stir continuously over low heat until the marshmallows have fully melted and the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine cereal: Remove the pot from heat and pour in the 6 cups of Rice Krispies Cereal. Gently fold the cereal into the marshmallow mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon until evenly coated. Tip: Spray the spatula with cooking spray to reduce sticking.
- Add mini marshmallows: Gently stir in ⅓ cup mini marshmallows; some will melt slightly, adding texture and variety to the treats.
- Transfer to tray: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking tray. Press down gently just enough to create an even layer without compacting the mixture too much.
- Decorate: Sprinkle the top with mini marshmallows, chocolate sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, dehydrated marshmallows, crushed candy canes, or your favorite candies. Press decorations lightly so they stick to the surface.
- Cool and serve: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes to set. Slice into 18 or 24 squares, serve, and enjoy your festive hot chocolate-inspired treats!
Notes
- Spraying the spatula with cooking spray helps prevent the sticky marshmallow mixture from clinging while stirring.
- Do not press the mixture too hard when spreading into the pan to keep the treats light and crispy.
- Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preference—add nuts or different candies for extra texture.
- Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for several days.
