Easy Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats: A Festive Holiday Recipe

Indulge in the delightful combination of chocolate, peppermint, and the classic crunch of Rice Krispies with these festive Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats. These treats take the beloved cereal bars to a whole new level, making them perfect for holiday gatherings, gifts, or simply a sweet treat for yourself. The irresistible chewy texture, combined with the satisfying crunch and the refreshing burst of peppermint, makes these treats a holiday must-have.

As a self-proclaimed peppermint and chocolate enthusiast, I can confidently say that these peppermint bark Rice Krispie treats are a game-changer. They elevate the traditional gooey treat to a sophisticated and festive dessert that everyone will love.

Imagine this: cocoa Rice Krispies for a rich chocolatey base, melted marshmallows providing that signature gooeyness, and a generous sprinkle of crushed candy canes for a refreshing peppermint kick. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will transport you back to childhood while simultaneously satisfying your adult palate. How can you possibly go wrong?

These candy cane Rice Krispie treats are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect activity to enjoy with your kids. They’ll love helping with the dumping, stirring, and cutting. I always encourage everyone to have fun and get creative in the kitchen!

(If you’re a fan of homemade crispy treats, be sure to try my browned butter rice crispy treats next! They offer a nutty and rich twist on the classic.)

Key Ingredients for Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats

• Unsalted butter: I prefer using unsalted butter because it allows me to control the amount of salt in the recipe. This ensures the perfect balance of flavors. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you could try my coconut oil rice krispie treats instead! They offer a unique and delicious alternative.
• Marshmallows: Whether you use mini or large marshmallows is entirely up to you. Mini marshmallows tend to melt quicker, saving you a bit of time, but large marshmallows work just as well. The most important thing is to ensure they are fresh and gooey for the best texture.
• Peppermint extract: A little peppermint extract goes a long way! It’s best to start with a smaller amount and adjust to your preference. For a subtle peppermint flavor, reduce the amount to ¼ teaspoon. And always remember to measure accurately! Avoid the temptation to simply pour it in, as adding too much can result in an overpowering flavor.
• Cocoa Krispies: For that irresistible chocolatey flavor! Cocoa Krispies add a delicious depth to these treats. However, if you prefer a milder flavor or want to stick to the classic, regular Rice Krispies work perfectly fine too.
• Mini marshmallows: Adding extra mini marshmallows at the end is my secret to achieving an even gooier and more marshmallow-y flavor. They add a delightful burst of sweetness and a wonderful chewy texture.
• White chocolate: When it comes to white chocolate, you have a couple of options. You can use white chocolate chips or melting wafers. Melting wafers are specifically designed for melting and drizzling, making them less finicky and less likely to burn. They create a smooth and glossy finish that’s perfect for these treats.
• Candy canes: The crushed candy canes, or crushed peppermint candies, are the finishing touch that brings these treats to life. They provide a refreshing peppermint crunch that perfectly complements the chocolate and marshmallow flavors.

How to Make Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making these peppermint Rice Krispie treats is surprisingly easy! Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll be able to whip up a batch of these delicious treats in no time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create the perfect Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats:

• Grease the pan: Start by preparing your baking pan. I highly recommend lining the bottom of the pan with parchment paper. This simple step will make it incredibly easy to remove the treats from the pan once they’re set, preventing any sticking or crumbling.
• Make the base: This is where the magic happens! Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium-low heat. Once the butter is melted, add the marshmallows. It’s crucial to keep the heat at medium-low to prevent the marshmallows from scorching. Melting the marshmallows too quickly over high heat can result in tough and chewy treats. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are fully melted and smooth. Then, stir in the peppermint extract, being careful not to add too much.

• Add the cocoa Krispies: Once the marshmallow mixture is smooth and fragrant, remove the pot from the heat. Gently fold in the cocoa Krispies and the extra mini marshmallows until everything is evenly coated with the sticky mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as this can also lead to tougher treats.
• Transfer to the prepared pan: I typically use a 9-x-13-inch pan for these treats. If you prefer thicker treats, you can use a smaller baking dish. To prevent your hands from getting sticky, use a piece of parchment paper to gently press the mixture into the pan, ensuring an even layer.

• Melt the white chocolate: Now, it’s time to melt the white chocolate. This step requires a bit of caution to prevent burning. Microwave the white chocolate in 20-second bursts, stirring after each interval. Continue this process until the chocolate is smooth and completely melted. If you notice tiny clumps in the chocolate, it’s a sign that it’s burnt, and you’ll need to start over.

• Add toppings: Once the white chocolate is melted, drizzle it evenly over the Rice Krispie treats. Immediately sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top while the chocolate is still wet. This will ensure that the candy canes adhere properly to the surface.
• Cool and cut: Patience is key! The longer you allow the bars to cool, the easier they will be to cut into neat squares. I typically let mine sit for at least 3 to 4 hours, or even overnight, for the best results.

Essential Tips and Tricks for Perfect Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats

To ensure your Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats turn out perfectly every time, here are a few essential tips and tricks to keep in mind:

• Cook the marshmallow mixture over medium-low heat: This is crucial for preventing the marshmallow base from becoming tough when it cools. Patience is key!
• For thicker Rice Krispie treats, use a smaller pan: If you prefer thicker bars, use an 8 by 8-inch pan. This will roughly double the thickness of the treats.
• The firmer you press the mixture into the pan, the firmer the bars will be: Apply gentle pressure when pressing the mixture into the pan, but avoid pressing too hard. I recommend using a piece of parchment paper to prevent your hands from getting sticky and to ensure an even distribution of pressure.

How to Store Your Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats

Proper storage is essential to maintaining the freshness and texture of your Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats. Here are a few tips to keep them delicious for as long as possible:

• You can store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Use parchment paper to layer the treats to prevent sticking when stacking. These ones are particularly gooey!
• For longer storage, you can freeze the treats in a tightly wrapped container for up to a month. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

More Delicious Treat Recipes to Try

If you’re looking for more easy and delicious treat recipes, be sure to check out these other favorites:

• Chocolate Protein Rice Crispy Treats
• Chocolate Chip Rice Krispie Treats
• Rice Krispie Treats with Marshmallow Fluff