Get ready to indulge in a festive treat that will have your taste buds dancing with delight! These Peppermint Rice Crispy Squares are not just your ordinary dessert; they’re a delightful twist on a classic favorite that combines the nostalgic crunch of rice cereal with the refreshing zing of peppermint. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe is quick and easy, taking just 15 minutes from start to finish. With a creamy marshmallow base and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies, these squares are sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t miss out on this deliciously simple recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 squares
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 package (10 oz) marshmallows
- 6 cups rice cereal
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Crushed peppermint candies for topping
Instructions
- Prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it thoroughly with butter. Set aside.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Use a spatula to ensure even melting and prevent burning.
- Add marshmallows to the melted butter and stir continuously until they are completely melted and smooth. The mixture should be glossy and free of marshmallow lumps.
- Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in the peppermint extract. Mix thoroughly to distribute the peppermint flavor evenly throughout the marshmallow mixture.
- Immediately add rice cereal to the marshmallow mixture. Gently fold and stir until every piece of cereal is well-coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use a buttered spatula or clean, slightly damp hands to press the mixture evenly into the pan. Be careful not to compress too firmly to maintain a light texture.
- Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the top of the mixture while it's still warm, gently pressing them into the surface.
- Allow the rice crispy treats to cool at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes until they are completely set and firm.
- Once cooled, lift the treats out of the pan using the parchment paper edges and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into 16 even squares using a sharp knife. Clean the knife between cuts for neat, clean edges.
- Serve and enjoy the festive peppermint rice crispy squares. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your marshmallows and butter are fresh for the best flavor and texture. Stale marshmallows can lead to a less-than-ideal consistency.
- Avoid Overheating: When melting the butter and marshmallows, keep the heat low and stir constantly. This prevents burning and ensures a smooth mixture.
- Don’t Skip the Peppermint Extract: For a stronger peppermint flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of peppermint extract to your taste. Just be cautious not to overpower the marshmallow flavor.
- Press Gently: When transferring the mixture to the baking pan, press it down gently. This helps maintain a light and airy texture rather than making the squares too dense.
- Cool Completely: Allow the squares to cool for at least 30-45 minutes before cutting. This will help them set properly and make it easier to achieve clean cuts.
- Customize Your Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! In addition to crushed peppermint candies, you can add chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra special treat.
- Store Properly: To keep your squares fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days, but we doubt they’ll last that long!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg
