The Best Soft and Chewy Rice Krispie Bars
Soft, gooey, and perfectly chewy, these Rice Krispie bars are the kind of nostalgic treat that takes you right back to childhood. There’s something so satisfying about the combination of crispy cereal, melted marshmallows, and buttery sweetness. These bars are a perfect choice for bake sales, lunchbox treats, or just a quick dessert you can throw together in minutes. Best of all, this recipe guarantees that your bars stay soft and chewy for days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Unlike some versions that turn rock-hard overnight, these bars use the perfect butter-to-marshmallow ratio to stay soft and gooey without falling apart. You’ll only need one pot and five ingredients, so cleanup is a breeze. Because there’s no baking required, kids can help stir, press, and even decorate the bars with sprinkles or chocolate drizzle. They’re quick, fun, and a crowd-pleaser every single time.
Nutrition At a Glance
Each bar is around 150–170 calories, making them a lighter dessert option compared to cookies or brownies. They have just enough sweetness to satisfy your craving without being overwhelming, and they’re lower in fat than many traditional desserts.
Time Required
You can have these ready in less than 30 minutes from start to finish:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cool Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes or less
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 10 oz mini marshmallows (about 1 standard bag)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional, enhances flavor)
Quick Grocery List
✔ Rice Krispies cereal
✔ Mini marshmallows
✔ Unsalted butter
✔ Vanilla extract
✔ Salt (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Melt the butter: In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter until smooth.
- Add marshmallows: Stir in the marshmallows and mix until completely melted and silky.
- Stir in vanilla: Remove from heat and add vanilla extract (and salt if using).
- Mix in cereal: Pour in Rice Krispies and gently fold until evenly coated.
- Press into pan: Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch pan. Press gently with a buttered spatula — don’t pack too tightly or the bars will be hard.
- Cool and slice: Let them set for about 15–20 minutes, then cut into squares.
Fun Ingredient Swaps & Add-Ins
Want to get creative? Try these ideas:
- Stir in mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top.
- Add sprinkles for birthdays or holiday themes.
- Mix in crushed cookies for a cookies-and-cream version.
- Use flavored marshmallows (like strawberry) for a colorful twist.
- Fold in peanut butter with the marshmallows for a nutty flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve them as-is for an easy grab-and-go snack, or cut them with cookie cutters into fun shapes for parties. Individually wrap them in wax paper for lunchboxes, road trips, or bake sales. For a decadent dessert, dip half of each bar in melted chocolate and let them set before serving.
What Makes These Bars Special
The secret to these bars’ soft, chewy texture is melting the marshmallows over low heat and mixing gently so you don’t crush the cereal. The result is a bar that holds together but still has that light, crispy bite you expect.
How to Store
Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For extra softness, place a slice of bread in the container, it keeps them from drying out. You can also freeze them individually wrapped for up to one month. Let them thaw at room temperature before eating.
Chef’s Tips
- Always use fresh marshmallows for the best melt and texture.
- Grease your spatula and hands lightly with butter or cooking spray to keep the mixture from sticking.
- For extra gooey bars, add a handful of unmelted marshmallows right at the end and stir just until combined.
- Don’t press too firmly into the pan, light pressure keeps them soft.
Conclusion & Call-to-Action
These soft Rice Krispie bars are proof that a simple, classic recipe can be incredibly satisfying. They’re quick, foolproof, and loved by both kids and adults. Your turn: Grab your cereal, marshmallows, and butter, and make a batch today. Share them with friends or family or keep them all to yourself (we won’t judge!). And don’t forget to take a photo of your gooey masterpiece and share it online!