As the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, the desire for warm spices and comforting treats grows strong. What better way to celebrate the essence of fall than by infusing a classic snack with the season’s most iconic flavor? Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats are the perfect marriage of a beloved childhood favorite and the grown-up love affair with all things pumpkin spice. This easy, no-bake recipe is sure to become a fall staple in your home, offering a delightful twist on the traditional Rice Krispie Treats.
Ingredients:
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 package (about 10 oz, or 40 marshmallows) of marshmallows
1/4 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (You can make your own blend with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves if you prefer.)
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
A pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)
Optional: 1/4 cup white chocolate chips and/or a handful of dried cranberries for a festive touch
Instructions:
Prepare Your Pan: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Set aside.
Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter. Add the marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted. The low heat is key to avoid burning.
Add Pumpkin Puree and Spices: Once the marshmallows are melted, stir in the pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and uniform in color.
Incorporate Rice Krispies: Remove the pot from the heat. Add the Rice Krispies cereal and a pinch of salt to the marshmallow mixture. Gently fold the cereal into the mixture until the cereal is evenly coated.
Press Into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Using a spatula or wax paper, press down evenly. If you like, sprinkle the top with white chocolate chips and dried cranberries for an extra festive look and taste.
Cool and Serve: Allow the treats to cool at room temperature until set, about 1 hour. For a quicker set, you can place them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Once set, cut into squares and serve.
Tips for Success:
Avoid Watery Pumpkin Puree: Since pumpkin puree can add moisture, make sure to use only 1/4 cup, and it’s not too watery. If your puree seems watery, strain it through a cheesecloth before measuring.
Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice according to your taste preference. If you love a strong pumpkin spice flavor, add a little extra.
Store Properly: These treats are best enjoyed within a day or two of making them. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.
Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats offer a delightful twist on a classic, infusing the warm flavors of fall into every bite. They are the perfect treat for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving gatherings, or simply as a cozy snack to enjoy with a cup of hot cider. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, these treats are sure to satisfy your pumpkin spice cravings and become a new fall tradition.
Customizing Your Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ease with which it can be customized to suit individual tastes or occasions. Here are some creative ideas to make these treats even more special:
Chocolate Drizzle: For a hint of chocolate, melt semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips and drizzle over the top of the cooled treats. The combination of pumpkin spice and chocolate is heavenly.
Nutty Addition: Stir in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts with the Rice Krispies for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin spice beautifully.
Cream Cheese Frosting: For an extra decadent touch, spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting over the top of the treats once they have cooled. Sprinkle with a little extra pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for garnish.
Halloween Fun: Turn these treats into festive Halloween delights by using cookie cutters in the shapes of pumpkins, ghosts, or bats after the mixture has set but is still slightly soft. Decorate with icing or candy eyes to bring your spooky creations to life.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options: To make these treats vegan, use plant-based butter and marshmallows. Ensure your Rice Krispies are gluten-free if catering to those with dietary restrictions.
Making Ahead and Storing
Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats are best enjoyed fresh but can be made ahead for convenience. Here’s how to store them:
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature. Avoid storing in the fridge as it can make them too hard.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the treats. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a ziplock bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These treats are perfect on their own, but pairing them with a warm beverage can enhance the experience. Serve with:
Hot Apple Cider: The quintessential fall drink, hot apple cider complements the spices in the treats wonderfully.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Double down on the pumpkin spice for a cozy, indulgent snack time.
Chai Tea: The spices in chai mirror those in the treats, making for a harmonious pairing.
Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats encapsulate the essence of fall in a delightful, easy-to-make snack. Whether you’re making them for a festive gathering, as a treat for the family, or simply to indulge your pumpkin spice cravings, they’re sure to be a hit. Experiment with the suggested variations or come up with your own to keep the recipe exciting and tailored to your tastes.
