Irresistibly Easy Chocolate-Covered Rice Krispie Treats: Your Go-To Dessert Guide

Discover the delightful simplicity of creating homemade or semi-homemade chocolate-covered Rice Krispie Treats. This versatile dessert is perfect for any occasion, offering a satisfying crunch coated in smooth, decadent chocolate and adorned with your favorite sprinkles. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, these treats promise an easy and enjoyable experience with delicious results.

The Sweet Appeal of Chocolate-Dipped Rice Krispie Treats

There’s something truly magical about Rice Krispie Treats, and when you add a generous coating of chocolate, they transform into an elegant yet incredibly simple dessert. These chocolate-covered delights are not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual treat, especially when customized with colorful sprinkles for any holiday or celebration. I find immense joy in how effortless these treats are to prepare, making them a perfect last-minute addition to any gathering or a fun activity for a quiet afternoon.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its flexibility. You can opt for the ultimate convenience by using a box of premade Rice Krispie Treats from your local grocery store, or embrace your inner chef and whip up a batch of homemade Rice Krispie Treats from scratch. While homemade treats offer a customizable texture and flavor, store-bought options provide consistency in size and appearance, which is particularly appealing if you’re aiming for a uniform look on a dessert platter.

My husband, for instance, has an undeniable love for Rice Krispie Treats. I often find myself making these treats when he’s out, only for him to discover them upon his return and grab one or two on his way to his office. The good news is, they’re so quick and easy to make that replenishing the supply is never a chore. This recipe is a testament to the fact that you don’t need complex techniques or exotic ingredients to create something truly special and universally loved.

If you’ve enjoyed our recipes for chocolate-covered sugar wafers or chocolate-covered pretzels, you’ll appreciate the secret to my dessert-making efficiency: making them all at the same time! By melting a larger batch of chocolate, you can dip various treats simultaneously. This is a brilliant strategy for preparing a diverse array of holiday desserts or creating an impressive dessert charcuterie board with minimal effort and maximum impact.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Chocolate-Covered Rice Krispie Treats

Creating these epic Chocolate-Covered Rice Krispie Treats requires just a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for a quick overview. Specific measurements and step-by-step instructions are provided in the full recipe card below.

• Rice Krispie Treats: The foundation of our dessert! As mentioned, you can use either store-bought treats for convenience or make your own. If opting for homemade, you’ll need butter, mini marshmallows (or regular marshmallows cut into smaller pieces), and Rice Krispies cereal. Fresh marshmallows are key for a perfectly chewy texture.
• Almond Bark (or Candy Melts/Chocolate): This forms the delicious coating. Vanilla almond bark is fantastic for its smooth melting properties and creamy flavor. You can also use white chocolate, milk chocolate, or dark chocolate melting wafers or high-quality chocolate chips. Candy melts offer a rainbow of color options, perfect for themed treats.
• Sprinkles: The fun part! Choose sprinkles that match the season, holiday, or theme of your event. From classic rainbow jimmies to festive holiday mixes, the possibilities are endless.

Optional Toppings for Extra Flair:

Elevate your treats with these exciting additions:

• Crushed candy canes for a minty, festive crunch.
• Finely crushed nuts (peanuts, almonds, pecans) for added texture and flavor.
• Mini M&Ms for a pop of chocolate and color.
• Toffee bits for a buttery, caramelized sweetness.
• Edible glitter for a touch of shimmer and elegance.
• A contrasting chocolate drizzle (e.g., dark chocolate drizzle over white chocolate coating) for a gourmet look.

Recommended Equipment for Easy Preparation

Having the right tools makes the process even smoother. Here’s a list of the essential equipment for making your chocolate-dipped Rice Krispie Treats:

• Large Microwave-Safe Mixing Bowl: A sturdy glass batter bowl with a handle is ideal. It makes mixing ingredients easy and stays stable on the counter. Ensure it’s microwave-safe for melting the chocolate.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring the melting chocolate and for dipping.
• Parchment Paper or Wax Paper: Essential for lining your baking sheets. This prevents the chocolate-coated treats from sticking as they set and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Baking Sheets with Sides: These are incredibly useful for holding your parchment paper and the dipped treats. The raised sides prevent sprinkles or excess chocolate from spilling.

How to Make Irresistible Chocolate-Dipped Rice Krispie Treats

The process of making these delightful treats is straightforward and quick. While comprehensive instructions are detailed in the printable recipe card below, here’s a simplified overview to get you started:

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace. Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This non-stick surface is crucial for letting your chocolate-covered treats set without sticking.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate. Place your chosen chocolate bark or candy melts into a microwave-safe bowl. It’s vital that the bowl is completely dry, as even a tiny bit of water can cause chocolate to seize and become unusable. Microwave the chocolate in short 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval. Continue this process until the chocolate is fully melted and beautifully smooth. Patience here is key to achieving a perfect consistency.

Step 3: Dip the Treats. Carefully dip each Rice Krispie Treat into the melted chocolate. You can decide how much of the treat you want to coat. For a classic look, dip about two-thirds of the treat, leaving some of the original treat visible. For a completely decadent experience, fully submerge it. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off back into the bowl before moving to the next step. This ensures a clean finish and prevents pooling on your parchment paper.

Step 4: Decorate with Sprinkles. Immediately after dipping each treat, generously sprinkle it with your desired toppings. It’s crucial to do this right away, as the candy coating sets quickly, especially if the treats are cool. Once the chocolate hardens, the sprinkles won’t adhere properly. Place each decorated treat onto the prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Allow to Set. Let the chocolate-covered treats sit at room temperature until the chocolate has completely hardened. This usually takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chocolate and the room temperature. For faster setting, you can place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes, but avoid leaving them in too long as they can become too hard.

We truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful Chocolate-Covered Rice Krispie Treat recipe! They are sure to bring smiles to faces, especially during the festive holiday season.

Preparation and Storage Tips for Chocolate-Covered Rice Krispie Treats

Proper preparation and storage ensure your delicious treats remain fresh and enjoyable. Follow these guidelines for the best results:

Make Ahead:

Utilizing store-bought Rice Krispie Treats is an excellent make-ahead shortcut, significantly reducing your prep time. If you plan to make your treats in advance, ensure they are fully cooled before dipping. Remember, the immediate application of sprinkles and other toppings after dipping is non-negotiable; they need to adhere before the chocolate sets. Once decorated, allow them to set completely before storing.

Storage:

To keep leftover chocolate-covered treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed within three to five days. To prevent them from sticking together and to maintain their perfect appearance, place a sheet of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer of treats within the container. We advise against refrigerating these treats, as the cooler temperatures can cause them to become excessively hard and lose some of their signature chewiness. The chocolate can also “bloom” and develop a dull, grayish appearance in the fridge due to temperature fluctuations, although this doesn’t affect taste.

Freezing/How to Freeze:

Chocolate-covered Rice Krispie Treats freeze surprisingly well, making them an ideal option for long-term storage or preparing for future events. When properly frozen, they can last up to three months. To freeze, ensure each treat is fully set and firm. Wrap each individual Chocolate-Covered Cereal Treat tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. This double-layer protection helps prevent freezer burn and maintains freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature for an hour or two. They will return to their delightful chewy texture without much effort.

Creative Recipe Variations for Every Taste and Dietary Need

These chocolate-covered treats are wonderfully adaptable, allowing for countless variations to suit different preferences and dietary requirements. Get creative and make them uniquely yours!

Substitutions and Flavor Twists:

As previously mentioned, you have the choice between store-bought or homemade Rice Krispie Treats. If you choose the homemade route, ensure you have butter, mini marshmallows, and Rice Krispies cereal on hand. For the coating, experiment with different types of chocolate: white chocolate almond bark offers a sweet, creamy base; candy melts come in a rainbow of colors perfect for themed parties; and dark chocolate or milk chocolate bark provides richer, more intense flavors. You can even combine different chocolates for a marbled effect or a contrasting drizzle.

Sprinkles are your ultimate tool for customization! Match them to any holiday or occasion. Red, white, and blue sprinkles would be fantastic for the Fourth of July, pastel colors for Easter, or spooky designs for Halloween. Think beyond sprinkles too: a pinch of orange zest in white chocolate for a citrusy note, a few drops of peppermint extract for a mint chocolate experience, or a dash of cinnamon for warmth. You can also mix in crushed cookies, dried fruit bits, or mini chocolate chips directly into the melted chocolate for added flavor and texture before dipping.

Dietary Options:

With a few mindful substitutions, these treats can be adapted for various dietary needs:

• Vegetarian Option: Standard Kellogg’s Rice Krispie Treats typically contain gelatin in the marshmallows, which is not suitable for vegetarians. To make them vegetarian-friendly, simply use a vegetarian-friendly marshmallow alternative that is gelatin-free. Many brands offer vegetarian marshmallows made with plant-based gelling agents.
• Vegan Option: For a fully vegan version, you’ll need to go a step further. In addition to using gelatin-free marshmallows for your Rice Krispie Treats, ensure your melting chocolate is plant-based (dairy-free). Many dark chocolates are naturally vegan, and there are specific vegan white and milk chocolate melts available. Also, check that your sprinkles do not contain confectioner’s glaze (shellac) or other animal-derived ingredients. Making your own treats with vegan butter and marshmallows is the best approach here.
• Gluten-Free: Traditional Kellogg’s Rice Krispie Treats are not safe for a gluten-free diet due to the cereal. To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the standard Rice Krispies with a certified gluten-free crisp rice cereal. Many brands offer excellent gluten-free alternatives. Additionally, for those with high sensitivity or celiac disease, always look for melting chocolate and sprinkles that are explicitly labeled gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination risks.
• Sugar-Free: The original recipe contains a significant amount of sugar (41 grams per serving). To create sugar-free Chocolate-Covered Rice Krispie Treats, you will need to replace each sugar-containing ingredient with a sugar-free or low-sugar alternative. This includes using sugar-free crisp rice cereal, sugar-free marshmallows, and sugar-free chocolate or candy melts. Be mindful that artificial sweeteners can sometimes alter the texture or flavor, so experiment to find your preferred combination.

Adjusting Serving Sizes:

The base recipe typically yields 12 Chocolate-Covered Rice Krispie Treats. This quantity is easily adjustable, whether you need a small batch for a family treat or a large quantity for a party. Simply scale the ingredients up or down proportionally. The flexibility of this recipe makes it perfect for any size gathering.

Expert Tips for Crafting the Best Chocolate-Covered Rice Krispie Treats

Achieving perfectly coated and decorated treats is easier with a few insider tips:

• Efficient Sprinkle Application: Instead of sprinkling directly from the container, pour your sprinkles into a wide, shallow bowl or dish. This allows you to roll the chocolate-dipped treat through the sprinkles, ensuring even coverage and minimizing waste. When you have a great mix of sprinkles, this method helps them last longer and ensures every treat gets a good coating.
• Creative Topping Combinations: For a delightful twist, consider coating white chocolate-dipped treats with mini chocolate chips for a classic cookies-and-cream vibe. Or, use a contrasting chocolate drizzle (e.g., dark chocolate over white chocolate) after the main coating has set, for an elegant finish.
• Turn Them into Pops: To make fun Rice Krispie Pops, gently insert paper straws or popsicle sticks into the end of each treat before dipping them in chocolate. This makes them easier to handle, dip, and eat, and they look fantastic displayed upright in a jar or foam block.
• Avoid Overheating Chocolate: When melting chocolate, always use short intervals and stir frequently. Overheating can cause chocolate to seize (become thick and clumpy) or burn. If it looks too thick, a tiny bit of coconut oil or vegetable shortening can help thin it out, but add sparingly.
• Work Quickly: Have all your sprinkles and toppings ready and within reach before you start dipping. The chocolate sets rapidly, especially if your treats are cool, so speed is key for successful decoration.
• Smooth Edges: After dipping, gently tap the treat against the edge of the bowl to remove excess chocolate and create a smooth, even coat. Use a knife or spatula to scrape away any chocolate drips from the bottom edge before it hardens.

What to Serve with Your Chocolate-Covered Rice Krispie Treats

Pair your custom-decorated Chocolate-Covered Rice Krispie Treats with other festive favorites for a truly memorable spread, perfect for sharing with friends and family this holiday season or any special gathering. Here are some menu planning suggestions:

Complementary Sides:

Rich and flavorful sides like Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams, savory Cracker Barrel Carrots, creamy Crock Pot Corn Pudding, a bright Cranberry Salsa, unique Pineapple Stuffing, and classic Cracker Barrel Green Beans create a balanced meal alongside your sweet treats.

Hearty Main Dishes:

For a complete meal, consider main courses such as succulent Crock Pot Turkey, comforting Crock Pot Cherry Oatmeal, delightful Easy Eggnog French Toast, warming Crock Pot Eggnog Oatmeal, festive Turkey Cranberry Sliders, or a savory Crock Pot Orange-Glazed Ham. These dishes provide a satisfying foundation before indulging in dessert.

More Decadent Desserts:

If you’re creating a grand dessert buffet, these treats pair wonderfully with other sweet delights like 4-Ingredient Christmas Crack, whimsical Homemade Grinch Bark, rich Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, delicate Krumkake, festive Eggnog Cookies, charming Church Window Cookies, or playful Holiday Reindeer Chow.

Festive Drinks:

Wash down your treats with refreshing beverages such as a Cranberry Moscow Mule, a cozy Polar Bear Shot, fun Grinch Jello Shots, an elegant Pomegranate Breeze Martini, a warming Mulled Cherry Cider Cocktail, comforting Eggnog Coffee, a luxurious Eggnog Latte, or a celebratory Three Wise Men Shot.

Perfect Occasions to Serve Chocolate-Covered Rice Krispie Treats

These versatile treats are suitable for an array of events and occasions throughout the year. Their customizable nature makes them a hit for:

• Any Dessert Table: An always welcome addition, simple yet satisfying.
• Holidays: Easily customized for Christmas, Easter, Halloween, Valentine’s Day, and more.
• Thanksgiving: A delightful sweet bite after a hearty meal.
• Christmas: Perfect for cookie exchanges, festive parties, or as edible gifts.
• Valentine’s Day: Use pink and red sprinkles for a sweet gesture.
• Any Celebration: Birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, or just because!
• Kids’ Parties: A guaranteed favorite among children, and they can even help with the decorating.
• Potlucks: Easy to transport and universally loved, making them a potluck superstar.
• School Events & Bake Sales: Simple to make in large batches and always popular.

Explore More Delicious Recipe Collections

If you’ve enjoyed making these treats, be sure to explore our other fantastic recipe collections for more culinary inspiration:

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Do you love discovering new recipes? Check out our extensive categories, including copycat recipes, dessert recipes, and our incredibly popular Crock Pot Recipes. Stay connected and never miss a delicious update! Follow Tammilee Tips on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for our latest recipe posts and culinary adventures.

Chocolate Covered Rice Krispie Treats

Easy Chocolate Dipped Rice Krispie Treats take minutes to prepare and can be customized for any holiday.

Print Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 12
Calories: 324 kcal

Author: Tammilee Tips

Ingredients

• 12 Kellogg’s Rice Krispie Treats
• 24 Ounce Vanilla Almond Bark
• Holiday Sprinkles (Garnish)

Instructions

1. Melt Vanilla bark in a microwave-safe mixing bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
2. Dip Rice Krispie treats into the chocolate. Let excess chocolate drip off, making sure they are evenly coated.
3. Place on parchment paper and immediately decorate with fun sprinkles.

Kitchen Tools

• Parchment Paper
• Cookie Sheets
• Large Mixing Bowl

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts

Chocolate Covered Rice Krispie Treats

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 324 | Calories from Fat 144

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% Daily Value*

Fat 16g 25%

Saturated Fat 16g 100%

Sodium 16mg 1%

Carbohydrates 41g 14%

Sugar 41g 46%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

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