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Cozy Halloween Rice Krispie Treats with Candy Eyes

Cozy Halloween Rice Krispie Treats with Candy Eyes - featured image

These buttery, impossibly soft Rice Krispie treats are studded with candy eyes for a spooky Halloween twist. Quick and easy to make, they stay chewy for days and are perfect for parties, potlucks, and classroom celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 package (10 ounces) mini marshmallows (about 6 cups)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 6 cups crispy rice cereal
  • 1 cup candy eyeballs
  • ¼ cup candy eyeballs (reserved for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon orange or black sprinkles (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving about 2 inches of overhang on two opposite sides. Lightly grease the parchment with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. Place a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt slowly, swirling occasionally, until fully melted but not bubbling or browning (about 2-3 minutes).
  3. Pour in the entire bag of mini marshmallows. Stir constantly with a rubber spatula, scraping the bottom and sides, until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.
  4. Stir in the ¼ teaspoon of salt and the ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
  5. Pour in the 6 cups of crispy rice cereal all at once. Fold gently with a cutting motion until every piece of cereal is coated and no dry pockets remain (about 2 minutes).
  6. Add 1 cup of candy eyeballs and fold them in gently, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
  7. Scrape the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to gently press it into an even layer without compacting it too much.
  8. While the mixture is still warm, press the reserved ¼ cup of candy eyes into the top. If using, scatter sprinkles and a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the top.
  9. Let the treats cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes until firm enough to cut.
  10. Use the parchment handles to lift the block out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and cut into squares (12 large or 24 small) with a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between cuts.

Notes

Use fresh marshmallows and cereal for best results. Keep heat on medium-low to avoid scorching. Do not press the mixture too firmly into the pan to maintain a light, chewy texture. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Do not refrigerate or freeze. For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal and check marshmallow labels.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween, Rice Krispie treats, candy eyes, spooky, easy, no-bake, kid-friendly, party treat