As the leaves turn and a crispness fills the air, I find myself drawn to the kitchen, eager to create something that echoes the essence of the season. There’s a certain joy in bringing playful autumn treats to life, and my Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins have quickly become a fall favorite in my home. The moment I melt the marshmallows, the fluffy allure has me grinning, knowing that I’m about to turn ordinary ingredients into delightful little pumpkins.
These treats are not just a feast for the taste buds but also a whimsical centerpiece for any gathering. With their vibrant orange hues and adorable Mini Rolo stems, they are guaranteed to brighten up snack time or a festive celebration. Best of all, they come together in just 20 minutes, effortlessly combining nostalgia with a touch of creativity. So, gather your loved ones, and let’s whip up these sweet bites that celebrate the spirit of the season!
Why loved Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins?
Joyful, these treats are a delightful way to celebrate the season and create cherished memories with family and friends. Quick and easy, they come together in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy days. Creative appeal with vibrant colors turns kitchen time into art time, inviting even the youngest chefs to join in. Versatile enough to adapt for different occasions, these pumpkins can grace Halloween parties or autumn gatherings alike. Plus, the charming combination of textures and flavors – crispy Rice Krispies, gooey marshmallows, and sweet candies – makes them irresistible. Try serving them with a cozy cup of hot cocoa for a festive treat!
Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins Ingredients
For the Base
• 1/4 cup butter – helps achieve a rich and creamy texture for the marshmallow mixture.
• 1 bag large marshmallows (approximately 40 marshmallows) – the key ingredient that gives these Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins their delightful chewiness.
• 6 cups Rice Krispies – the crispy component that forms the foundation of these sweet treats.
For the Color
• Red & Yellow Liquid Food Coloring – create the perfect vibrant orange hue to make your pumpkins pop!
For the Decoration
• Mini Rolos – use these as cute stems that add a chocolatey flavor to every bite.
• Green M&M’s – the perfect addition for a colorful leaf that brings your pumpkins to life.
For Preparation
• 1/4 cup cooking oil or melted butter – coat your hands to prevent sticking while shaping the pumpkins.
How to Make Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins
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Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat, allowing it to become bubbly and fragrant. This should take about 2-3 minutes, setting a buttery base for your delightful treats.
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Add Marshmallows: Stir in the marshmallows, mixing continuously until they are completely melted and blended with the butter. You’ll want a smooth, gooey mixture that will be the heart of your Rice Krispie Treats.
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Color the Mixture: Remove the pot from heat. Add several drops of yellow food coloring, mixing well. Then, add red food coloring one drop at a time, blending until you achieve that vibrant orange pumpkin color.
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Combine with Rice Krispies: Gently fold in the Rice Krispies, ensuring each piece is coated with the colorful marshmallow mixture. This should be done quickly while the mixture is still warm and pliable.
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Shape the Treats: Coat your hands with cooking oil or melted butter to prevent sticking. Roll the mixture into small balls, about the size of a tennis ball. Place them on parchment paper, adding more oil or butter as needed to keep the mixture from adhering to your hands.
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Decorate Your Pumpkins: While the balls are still warm, press a Mini Rolo gently into the top of each one for the stem. Add a green M&M beside the Rolo to create a charming leaf, giving your pumpkins their delightful character.
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Cool and Enjoy: Allow the Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins to cool until they firm up completely. This will take about 15-20 minutes, and then they’re ready to dazzle your family and friends!
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins
Room Temperature: Store your Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay soft and chewy, perfect for snacking!
Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Just ensure they’re in a sealed container to avoid drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the treats in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: If they become a bit hard, you can warm them in the microwave for about 10 seconds to bring back their delightful chewiness.
Make Ahead Options
These Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins are perfect for meal prep and can make your busy days so much easier! You can prepare the Rice Krispie mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to shape your pumpkins, simply scoop out the mixture and roll it into balls. For best results, roll in small batches to prevent them from hardening. You can also decorate them with Mini Rolos and green M&Ms just before serving to keep the candies from getting soggy, ensuring that your adorable treats are just as delightful as when they were freshly made!
Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins Variations
Feel free to explore these fun and creative twists that will elevate your Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins to the next level!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute Rice Krispies with gluten-free crispy rice cereal to keep these treats accessible for everyone.
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Nutty Delight: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for an added crunch and rich flavor. The combination of nutty and sweet offers a delightful contrast.
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Pumpkin Spice: Mix in 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice for an autumnal twist that will have your kitchen smelling like a fall festival. It adds warmth and a cozy essence to every bite.
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Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted chocolate over the pumpkins for an indulgent touch that enhances both flavor and presentation. This extra layer of sweetness will enchant any chocolate lover!
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Colorful Sprinkles: Use festive autumn-themed sprinkles to give your treats a playful and vibrant appearance, making them even more appealing for a party or celebration. Not only do they look good, but they add a crunchy texture too!
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Vegan Option: Swap the butter with coconut oil and use vegan marshmallows for a plant-based delight that everyone can enjoy. The coconut adds a tropical flair, making each bite extra special.
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Crispy Coating: Roll the finished pumpkins in crushed Rice Krispies or graham cracker crumbs for an even crispy texture on the outside. This adds an unexpected crunch that’s seriously addicting!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marshmallow mixture for those who enjoy a subtle heat in their treats. It creates a surprising and exciting flavor combination that will leave taste buds tingling!
What to Serve with Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins?
As you dive into crafting these vibrant autumn treats, think about what’s best to complement their sweet whimsy and festivity.
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Warm Apple Cider: The hint of spices in this classic drink beautifully enhances the sweet flavors of the treats, creating a cozy atmosphere. Nothing beats sipping cider with a touch of cinnamon while enjoying these delightful pumpkins!
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Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch adds an enjoyable contrast to the sugary treats. Plus, the unexpected twist of flavors is sure to impress your guests!
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Spiced Banana Bread: Moist and rich, banana bread pairs excellently with the playful sweetness and crunch of the Rice Krispie Treats, offering a delightful flavor journey.
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Mini Pumpkin Muffins: Serve these moist, spiced muffins alongside your Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins for an extra fall-inspired touch. They make for a perfectly matched sweet bite.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling some warm caramel on top of your pumpkins elevates the sweetness while adding a luscious twist. It’s an indulgent treat that everyone will adore!
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Nutty Trail Mix: A mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit provides a healthy option that balances the sugary Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins, bringing in a satisfying crunch.
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Cranberry Fizz: For a festive drink, try a sparkling cranberry beverage. The tartness complements the sweetness of the pumpkins without overwhelming them.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic dessert is a comforting way to end your meal. The cool, creamy vanilla ice cream beautifully contrasts with the warm, chewy treats, creating a delightful pairing.
These pairings invite you to dive deeper into autumn flavors, enhancing every sweet bite of your Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins!
Expert Tips for Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins
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Grease Hands: Use plenty of cooking oil or melted butter on your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking, making it easier to shape the rice treats.
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Control Color: Add food coloring gradually while mixing; this helps you achieve the perfect orange hue for your Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins without overwhelming the mixture.
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Melt Marshmallows Evenly: Ensure the marshmallows are completely melted and combined with the butter to avoid any clumps, providing that delightful chewy texture.
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Timely Shaping: Work quickly after combining the Rice Krispies and marshmallows; the mixture sets as it cools, making it harder to shape if left too long.
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Stagger Decoration: Press the Mini Rolos and green M&M’s into the treats while they’re warm to help them stick better and create an appealing design.
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Store Properly: Keep your Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and chewy texture for longer.
Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ingredients, especially the marshmallows?
When choosing marshmallows, opt for fresh, plump ones without any signs of aging, such as a hard texture or clumps. The best way to ensure freshness is by checking for a “best by” date on the package. For Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins, large marshmallows work best for that gooey, soft consistency.
How should I store leftover Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins?
Absolutely! Store your Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need them to last longer, place them in the fridge where they’ll stay fresh for about a week. Just remember to seal the container tightly to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze my Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins?
Yes, you can! To freeze, start by placing the shaped pumpkins in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them at room temperature.
What if my Rice Krispie Treat mixture is too sticky or crumbly to shape?
If the mixture is too sticky, make sure to coat your hands generously with cooking oil or melted butter while shaping the pumpkins. This prevents the mixture from adhering to your hands. If it’s crumbly, it might be due to overcooking the marshmallows; next time, melt them just until they’re gooey, without letting them harden.
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Certainly! These Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins contain both butter and marshmallows, which may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies. For a vegan version, try using a dairy-free butter alternative and vegan marshmallows. Make sure to check the labels, especially for the candies, to avoid any allergens.
How can I customize my Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins further?
The more the merrier! You can add different toppings or fillings, like sprinkles or chocolate drizzle. For a more festive flavor, consider mixing in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Just remember to maintain the balance of ingredients so that your treats remain perfectly sweet and chewy!
Rice Krispie Treat Pumpkins: Fun Fall Treats to Make Together
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Marshmallows: Stir in the marshmallows until completely melted and blended.
- Color the Mixture: Add yellow food coloring and then red food coloring until achieving vibrant orange.
- Combine with Rice Krispies: Fold in Rice Krispies while the mixture is still warm.
- Shape the Treats: Coat hands with oil or butter, roll mixture into balls, and place on parchment paper.
- Decorate Your Pumpkins: Press a Mini Rolo on top for the stem and a green M&M for the leaf.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow to cool for 15-20 minutes until firm before serving.