Easy Pumpkin Shaped Rice Krispie Treats Recipe for Perfect Halloween Snacks
These easy pumpkin shaped Rice Krispie treats are a quick, festive, and nostalgic Halloween snack made with classic marshmallows and crisped rice cereal, shaped into pumpkins and decorated with green candy stems.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 cups (about 180 grams) Rice Krispies cereal
- 10 oz (about 280 grams) mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons (45 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- A few drops orange food coloring
- Small amount green candy melts or green licorice for pumpkin stems
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace by lining a baking sheet or large tray with wax or parchment paper. Lightly butter your hands to prevent sticking later (about 5 minutes).
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 3 tablespoons (45 grams) of unsalted butter. Once melted, add 10 oz (280 grams) of mini marshmallows. Stir continuously until marshmallows are completely melted and smooth (about 5 minutes).
- Remove the pan from heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a few drops of orange food coloring until the mixture is a vibrant pumpkin hue. Add a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice if desired.
- Immediately pour the marshmallow mixture over 6 cups (about 180 grams) of Rice Krispies cereal in a large bowl. Quickly but gently fold the cereal into the marshmallow mixture using a wooden spoon or spatula until evenly coated (about 3 minutes).
- While the mixture is still warm, scoop out portions (approximately 1/2 cup per treat) using a cookie scoop or measuring cup. Using buttered hands, gently shape each portion into a round ball and pinch the sides slightly to form a pumpkin shape.
- Use green candy melts piped through a small bag or thin strips of green licorice to create pumpkin stems on top. Melt candy melts gently in the microwave for about 30 seconds if using, then pipe immediately (10-15 minutes depending on batch size).
- Place shaped pumpkins on the prepared baking sheet and let cool at room temperature until firm, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, chill in the fridge for faster setting.
Notes
Melt butter and marshmallows over low heat to avoid scorching. Work quickly but gently when mixing and shaping as the mixture sets fast. Butter your hands to prevent sticking. Avoid overpacking the mixture to keep treats light and chewy. Store in an airtight container for 2-3 days or freeze for up to a month. Reheat briefly in microwave if desired. Use mini marshmallows for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pumpkin shaped tre
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 90
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Protein: 1.5
Keywords: Pumpkin shaped Rice Krispie treats, Halloween snacks, easy Halloween dessert, marshmallow treats, festive treats, no bake dessert