Single Serve Rice Krispie Treat
This one-portion version is ideal when you need a quick sweet fix but don't want the mess of a full batch. Made in minutes with just a handful of pantry staples and zero leftovers to tempt you.
Equipment
- Microwave-safe bowl - medium-sized, at least 16 oz / 500ml capacity
- Silicone spatula - or wooden spoon
- Small plate - or ramekin, or mini silicone baking mold
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cooking spray - or parchment paper
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter - 14g
- 1 cup mini marshmallows - 25g, approximately 10-12 regular-sized marshmallows
- 1 cup Rice Krispies cereal - 28g, or puffed rice cereal
- fine salt - pinch, optional but highly recommended
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - optional, adds depth of flavor
Instructions
- Lightly spray a small plate, ramekin, or silicone mold with cooking spray. Alternatively, line with parchment paper. Set aside within reach.
- Place 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 20-25 seconds, or until just fully melted.
- Add 1 cup of mini marshmallows to the melted butter and stir to coat. Microwave on high for 30 seconds. Stir, then microwave in 10-15 second bursts until smooth and glossy. Stir in salt and vanilla if using.
- Working quickly, pour 1 cup of Rice Krispies cereal into the warm marshmallow mixture. Fold and stir until every piece is evenly coated.
- Immediately transfer the mixture to your prepared mold. Use a greased spatula or fingers to press down firmly and evenly. Shape into a square or circle about 1 inch thick.
- Let the treat sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to set. For a quicker set, refrigerate for 3-5 minutes. Unmold and enjoy.
Notes
- Don't overheat the marshmallows. Overcooked marshmallows become stiff and result in a hard, dense treat. Melt just until smooth.
- Work quickly once the marshmallows are melted. The mixture sets fast, so have your cereal and mold ready before you start melting.
- Use mini marshmallows for the best results. They melt more evenly than large ones in small quantities and require less microwave time.
- Press firmly when shaping. A well-pressed treat holds together cleanly and won't crumble when you eat it.
- Add a tiny pinch of salt to dramatically enhance the flavor and cut through the sweetness.
- Grease everything the cereal will touch, including your spatula, hands, and mold. This prevents frustrating sticking and cleanup.
- Measure your cereal by volume. Too much cereal makes a dry treat; too little makes it overly gooey and difficult to handle.
- Store any leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat for 5-8 seconds in the microwave to bring back gooeyness.
- This recipe can be easily doubled by using 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 cups of marshmallows, and 2 cups of cereal. Increase microwave time to 45-60 seconds.
- For a stovetop method, melt the butter and marshmallows in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring continuously until smooth.