Rice Krispies Treats have long been a favorite dessert, with their crunchy, gooey texture and simple yet satisfying flavors. But what if you could elevate this classic treat into something even more indulgent and decadent? Enter the Chocolate-Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats—a twist on the original, combining the rich taste of chocolate and the sweet tartness of cherries, all wrapped up in a crispy, marshmallow-filled base.
This treat is perfect for those who crave a bit of extra indulgence without venturing too far from the familiar comfort of Rice Krispies Treats. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, a special occasion, or just because, these chocolate-covered cherry bars are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
To make these chocolate-covered cherry Rice Krispies treats, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:
For the Rice Krispies Base:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
For the Cherry Filling:
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
- 2 tablespoons cherry juice (from the maraschino cherries jar)
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
- Prepare the Rice Krispies Base:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Add the chopped cherries and cherry juice, stirring to combine. The cherry pieces will add a burst of flavor throughout the treat, making each bite a little surprise of sweet and tart goodness.
- Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure to pack it down firmly. Allow it to cool for about 15-20 minutes, or until set.
- Make the Chocolate Coating:
- In a small saucepan, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butter over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure it doesn’t burn.
- Once the mixture is smooth and shiny, remove from heat.
- Assemble the Treats:
- Once the Rice Krispies base has set, pour the melted chocolate over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Allow the chocolate to set for a few minutes before cutting the treats into squares or rectangles.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the chocolate-covered Rice Krispies treats to cool completely, either at room temperature or in the fridge, to ensure the chocolate hardens.
- Once set, slice into bars and serve!
Tips and Variations:
- Cherry Variations: If you prefer a stronger cherry flavor, you can increase the amount of chopped maraschino cherries or add a splash of cherry extract to the Rice Krispies mixture.
- Chocolate Options: While semi-sweet chocolate works beautifully for these treats, feel free to use milk chocolate or even white chocolate if you want a different flavor profile.
- Make It Fancy: For an extra touch of flair, drizzle additional chocolate over the top or sprinkle with crushed nuts (such as almonds or pistachios) to add some texture and contrast to the sweetness.
Why You’ll Love These Chocolate-Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats
These treats blend all the best elements of a Rice Krispies treat—crispy, chewy, and sweet—with the indulgent flavors of chocolate and cherries. The combination of crunchy cereal, gooey marshmallow, and silky chocolate creates a layered dessert that’s impossible to resist. The addition of maraschino cherries adds a touch of tartness, making each bite more exciting.
This treat is perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual get-togethers to holiday celebrations. Its playful, vibrant appearance and delightful flavor profile are sure to make it a favorite among friends and family. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a cherry enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys a classic dessert with a twist, these Chocolate-Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Conclusion:
Chocolate-Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are a delicious and creative way to reinvent a childhood favorite. Combining the simplicity of Rice Krispies with the elegance of chocolate and the brightness of cherries, this dessert offers something special for every palate. With minimal ingredients and an easy-to-follow process, these treats are a fun and flavorful way to make any day a little sweeter. Enjoy!
