If you’re looking for a festive treat that combines nostalgic comfort with a delightful peppermint twist, this Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is going to become your new holiday obsession. Imagine the classic crispy, chewy texture you love from Rice Krispies, enhanced with the cool brightness of peppermint extract, a luscious white chocolate topping, and a generous sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, minty, and buttery flavors wrapped up in every bite, ideal for sharing with friends or keeping all to yourself on a cozy winter afternoon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats Recipe relies on familiar, simple ingredients that come together to create a magical combination. Each one plays an important role, from adding that dreamy chewy texture to delivering the peppermint punch and chocolatey decadence you’ll crave.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps melt the marshmallows smoothly for that classic chewy texture.
- 10 ounces marshmallows (about 5 cups, regular or mini): The star ingredient that binds everything together with gooey deliciousness.
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal: Provides the iconic crisp crunch and lightness that make the treats so addictive.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: Infuses the mixture with a refreshing minty burst that elevates the whole dessert.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips: Melts into a creamy layer on top, adding sweetness and an elegant finish.
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candies (or candy canes): Gives a festive crunch and colorful sparkle, perfect for holiday cheer.
How to Make Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or lining it with parchment paper. This simple step ensures your treats won’t stick, making cleanup easier and helping your bars come out in perfect squares every time.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Marshmallows
In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add all 10 ounces of marshmallows and stir constantly until everything is completely smooth and melted. This luscious marshmallow mixture is the glue that holds your treats together, so patience here really pays off.
Step 3: Add Peppermint Extract
Once your marshmallow mixture is silky and smooth, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. This step is where the magic starts, transforming a classic treat into something bright, fresh, and wonderfully festive.
Step 4: Incorporate Rice Krispies Cereal
Gradually add 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal into the marshmallow mixture, stirring gently but thoroughly to ensure every crispy piece is coated in that sweet, melty marshmallow goodness. This careful mixing creates the perfect texture that is both crispy and chewy.
Step 5: Press Into the Pan
Transfer the cereal mixture into your prepared baking dish. Using a buttered spatula or a piece of wax paper, press the mixture evenly and firmly so that the treats hold together nicely when cut. Don’t be afraid to press firmly—this helps the bars stick together and hold their shape beautifully.
Step 6: Melt White Chocolate and Add Toppings
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the texture is silky and smooth. Drizzle or spread the white chocolate evenly over the pressed Rice Krispie layer and immediately sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies on top before the chocolate sets. This topping adds a glossy, sweet, and minty finish you’ll love.
Step 7: Chill and Set
Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the white chocolate to harden and set properly. Once chilled, cut the treats into squares or rectangles to serve. The chilling step ensures clean cuts and a delightful snap with every bite.
How to Serve Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation, feel free to add a few extra crushed peppermint candies or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top. Some fresh mint leaves placed alongside the treats can hint at their minty flavor, while a drizzle of extra melted white chocolate makes them look as good as they taste.
Side Dishes
This peppermint-inspired treat pairs wonderfully with hot beverages like peppermint mocha, black coffee, or a steaming cup of cocoa. The warmth of these drinks balances the cool freshness of the peppermint in the treats, making for a perfectly cozy snack experience during the holidays.
Creative Ways to Present
For gift-giving or party serving, try cutting the Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats Recipe into festive shapes using cookie cutters, like stars or Christmas trees. Wrap them in clear cellophane with a colorful ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift. Alternatively, serve in mini cupcake liners for easy grab-and-go portions that are as cute as they are tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keeping them sealed well maintains their chewy texture while preventing the peppermint candies from becoming soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze these treats wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature before serving to bring back that perfect chewy crispness with the peppermint-flavored charm intact.
Reheating
Reheating is usually not necessary, but if you prefer a softer texture, microwave single servings for about 10 seconds. Just be careful not to melt the white chocolate topping entirely—short bursts of heat work best.
FAQs
Can I substitute peppermint extract with another flavor?
Absolutely! While peppermint extract gives this recipe its signature holiday flair, you can experiment with vanilla, almond, or even orange extract for a different twist. Just start with less extract and add more to taste.
Is it okay to use mini marshmallows instead of regular ones?
Yes, mini marshmallows are perfectly fine and will melt more quickly, making the preparation a bit faster. Both options work beautifully in the Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats Recipe.
Can I make these treats gluten-free?
Rice Krispies cereal traditionally contains malt flavoring, which has gluten. For a gluten-free version, opt for a certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal instead to keep the treats safe and delicious.
What’s the best way to crush peppermint candies?
Simply place the candies in a plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan. Aim for small, uneven pieces that add crunch and color without overpowering each bite.
Can I add chocolate chips inside the treat mixture?
You can, but be mindful that adding chocolate chips before the mixture sets may cause them to melt and lose shape. Mixing them in after pressing the treats into the pan or sprinkling them on top with the white chocolate works better for a decorative impact.
Final Thoughts
This Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is a joyful way to celebrate the holidays or simply bring a refreshing twist to a beloved classic treat. Easy to make and irresistibly festive, it’s a snack that promises smiles with every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the magic of these crispy, chewy, minty bars with your favorite people!
Print
Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive and delicious twist on classic Rice Krispie treats, featuring peppermint extract and crushed peppermint candies layered with smooth white chocolate for a perfect holiday dessert.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 10 ounces marshmallows (about 5 cups, regular or mini)
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
Topping
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candies (or candy canes)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add 10 ounces of marshmallows, stirring constantly until completely melted and smooth.
- Add Peppermint Extract: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon peppermint extract to infuse the mixture with a refreshing peppermint flavor.
- Incorporate Rice Krispies Cereal: Gradually add 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal into the marshmallow mixture, stirring gently but thoroughly to coat every crisp piece evenly.
- Press Into the Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Using a buttered spatula or wax paper, press the mixture evenly and firmly into the pan to create a flat surface.
- Melt White Chocolate and Add Toppings: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup of white chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth. Drizzle or spread the melted white chocolate evenly over the Rice Krispie layer, then immediately sprinkle 1 cup of crushed peppermint candies on top before the chocolate sets.
- Chill and Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the white chocolate to harden. Once set, cut into squares or rectangles and serve.
Notes
- Use regular or mini marshmallows according to your preference.
- For a more intense peppermint flavor, you can add a little extra peppermint extract but be cautious not to overpower the balance.
- Ensure the white chocolate is melted gently to prevent burning or seizing.
- Crushed peppermint candies can be substituted with finely chopped candy canes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
