Are Rice Krispie Treats Gluten Free? Everything You Need to Know in 2025

Are Rice Krispie treats gluten free? That question changed everything for me. I’m Lidia Bellacci, the baker behind Recipes of Kitchen, The Gluten-Free Sweet Kitchen. My baking journey took an unexpected turn when I was diagnosed with gluten sensitivity. Suddenly, I had to rethink every dessert I loved—including childhood favorites like Rice Krispies treats.

Instead of giving up, I began recreating all my favorite recipes without gluten. After many trials (and plenty of messy kitchens), I learned how to make gluten-free baking not just possible—but absolutely delicious. Today, my goal is to help others do the same.

In this guide, you’ll learn which Rice Krispie treats are gluten-free, which brands are safe, and how to make your own irresistible gluten-free version at home.

Understanding Gluten and Gluten Sensitivity

What is Gluten and Why Does It Matter?

Before answering the question “Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free?”, it’s important to understand what gluten is. Gluten is a group of proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye. It gives bread its chewiness and helps dough rise, but for many people, gluten is more trouble than it’s worth.

For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, even a small amount of gluten can lead to digestive discomfort, inflammation, fatigue, and other health concerns. This makes identifying hidden sources of gluten—especially in sweet snacks like cereal bars and marshmallow treats—critical for maintaining well-being.

Rice, in its natural state, is gluten-free. But the problem lies in processed foods, where gluten often sneaks in through additives, flavorings, or even cross-contamination during manufacturing. That’s why the question “Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free?” isn’t always as simple as it seems.

Gluten Sensitivity vs. Celiac Disease

When discussing whether Rice Krispie Treats are gluten free, we must distinguish between gluten sensitivity and celiac disease. Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition where the ingestion of gluten damages the small intestine. It requires strict avoidance of gluten down to the tiniest trace, including cross-contamination.

On the other hand, non-celiac gluten sensitivity is not autoimmune, but it still causes unpleasant symptoms. People with gluten sensitivity might tolerate minimal exposure to gluten, but many choose to avoid it altogether to stay symptom-free.

For both groups, asking “Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free?” becomes more than a casual question—it’s a necessary part of staying healthy and safe.

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Ingredients in Traditional Rice Krispie Treats

Standard Recipe Breakdown: Rice Krispies, Marshmallows & Butter

To fully answer the question, are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free, we need to look at the classic recipe. Traditionally, these beloved snacks require just three ingredients:

• Rice Krispies cereal
• Mini marshmallows
• Butter or margarine

Sounds simple, right? But as with many processed foods, the ingredients list doesn’t tell the whole story. While rice is naturally gluten-free, not all Rice Krispies cereals are. Some contain malt flavoring, which is derived from barley—a known source of gluten.

Even marshmallows, though primarily made from sugar and gelatin, may contain gluten-containing additives or be produced in facilities with cross-contact risks. This makes the question “Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free” more complicated than it appears.

If you’re following a strict gluten-free diet due to celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it’s essential to read every label and opt for certified gluten-free brands.

Hidden Gluten in Processed Ingredients

The biggest issue with traditional Rice Krispie Treats lies in hidden gluten. Most people don’t realize that Kellogg’s Rice Krispies contain malt flavoring, making them unsuitable for gluten-free diets.

Additionally, processed marshmallows can include trace amounts of gluten, especially if they are dusted with wheat starch or manufactured on shared equipment. The butter itself is generally safe, but always double-check flavored or spreadable versions.

So, if you’re wondering again, are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free, the answer is: not always. The truth depends on the brands you use and how they’re manufactured. Choosing certified gluten-free ingredients is the safest route.

Do Rice Krispie Treats Have Gluten?

Ingredient Analysis: Are They Safe for Gluten-Free Diets?

So, let’s tackle the core of the question: Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free when made from store-bought ingredients?

The truth lies in the details. While puffed rice itself is naturally gluten-free, many commercial cereals—especially those produced by big brands—aren’t made with just rice. One of the most common culprits? Malt extract or malt flavoring, both derived from barley, a gluten-containing grain. This is especially true for Kellogg’s Rice Krispies, which use barley malt as a flavoring agent.

This means the answer to “Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free?” is often no—at least not if you’re using regular Kellogg’s cereal. For those with celiac disease, even a trace amount of barley-derived ingredients can trigger serious reactions.

Other ingredients, such as marshmallows or flavorings added to pre-packaged Rice Krispie-style bars, may also contain modified food starch or be produced in environments with cross-contamination risks.

Why Some Rice Krispie Treats Contain Gluten

The issue often isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about labeling and manufacturing standards. While some store-bought treats claim to be “gluten friendly,” that doesn’t mean they’re celiac-safe.

Here are a few reasons why many Rice Krispie Treats are not gluten free:

Ingredient/Process	Contains Gluten?	Why It Matters
Barley Malt Flavoring	✅ Yes	Common in cereals, especially Kellogg’s
Modified Food Starch	❌ Maybe	Can be gluten-free but depends on source
Cross-Contamination Risk	✅ Yes	Shared equipment may introduce gluten
Flavored Marshmallows	✅ Yes (some)	Flavorings or dusting agents may contain wheat

To ensure your crispy treat is truly gluten-free, choose ingredients that are certified gluten-free, clearly labeled, and free from questionable additives.

Kellogg’s and Gluten: Are Their Rice Krispies Safe?

Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Cereal Ingredients

One of the most common questions among gluten-conscious consumers is: Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free if they’re made with Kellogg’s Rice Krispies? Unfortunately, the answer is no—and it all comes down to one small but impactful ingredient: barley malt flavoring.

Barley malt is a hidden source of gluten that’s commonly used in cereals for flavor enhancement. While rice itself is naturally gluten-free, Kellogg’s original Rice Krispies cereal contains barley malt, making it unsuitable for anyone with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

So, no matter how basic or nostalgic the ingredients may seem, if you’re using standard Kellogg’s Rice Krispies, then the answer to “Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free?” is a definitive no.

Even though Kellogg’s previously offered a gluten-free version, it was discontinued several years ago due to low sales, disappointing many in the gluten-free community.

Did Kellogg’s Stop Making Gluten-Free Rice Krispies?

Yes. Back in 2011, Kellogg’s launched a certified gluten-free version of their classic Rice Krispies cereal made without barley malt. It was a relief for families managing gluten sensitivities—until it was quietly discontinued just a few years later.

Why? The official reason cited was lack of demand, but many gluten-free consumers believe it was due to limited shelf space and higher production costs. Since then, Kellogg’s hasn’t introduced another gluten-free cereal under the Rice Krispies label.

So, if you’ve ever wondered, “Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free” when using Kellogg’s?, the answer is still no—unless you’ve stocked up on discontinued boxes, which are now long gone from shelves.

Instead, turn to trusted brands that clearly state “certified gluten-free” on the packaging. These include options like Nature’s Path Crispy Rice Cereal, Barbara’s Organic Brown Rice Crisps, and One Degree Sprouted Brown Rice Cereal—all excellent substitutes.

Certified Gluten-Free Rice Krispie Treat Brands

Popular Gluten-Free Brands in the Market

If you’ve asked yourself, are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free, you’re not alone—and fortunately, several brands have stepped in to offer certified gluten-free alternatives. These options are not only safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity but also taste just as delicious as the original.

Here are some widely available gluten-free rice crispy treat brands:

Brand	Certified GF?	Notes
MadeGood	✅ Yes	Organic, vegan, gluten-free; uses puffed brown rice
Blake’s Seed-Based Treats	✅ Yes	Allergy-friendly, school-safe, gluten-free label
88 Acres	✅ Yes	Made in a gluten-free facility with clean ingredients
Annie’s Gluten Free	✅ Yes	Often available at Whole Foods and natural grocers

These products are great options for anyone wondering, are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free, but who doesn’t want to make them from scratch.

Reddit Discussions: User-Recommended Brands

On Reddit, the gluten-free community regularly shares feedback and hidden gems. Posts in forums like r/glutenfree often recommend:

• Nature’s Path Crispy Rice as a base for DIY treats
• MadeGood squares for on-the-go snacks
• Tips on spotting mislabeled products that claim to be “wheat-free” but aren’t gluten-free

Many users echo a familiar theme: always check for a certified label. Even in 2025, some shoppers still ask, “Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free if they just say wheat-free?” The answer? Not necessarily—barley and rye don’t contain wheat but still contain gluten.

Homemade Gluten-Free Rice Krispie Treats

Ingredients to Use for a Gluten-Free Version

The safest way to guarantee that Rice Krispie Treats are gluten free is to make them yourself. But you must use ingredients that are 100% certified gluten-free.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal (such as One Degree or Nature’s Path)
• Gluten-free marshmallows (e.g., Dandies or Kraft Jet-Puffed labeled GF)
• Unsalted butter (or a dairy-free alternative if needed)

Using these safe ingredients ensures that the answer to “Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free?” becomes a confident yes.

Simple Gluten-Free Recipe Anyone Can Make

Here’s a basic gluten-free Rice Krispie Treat recipe:

1. Melt 3 tbsp butter over low heat
2. Stir in 10 oz gluten-free marshmallows until fully melted
3. Remove from heat, then mix in 6 cups of certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal
4. Spread into a greased pan and let cool before slicing

This version not only answers the question “Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free” with a yes, but it also tastes every bit as nostalgic and satisfying as the traditional treat.

Cross-Contamination and Labeling Awareness

How to Read Gluten-Free Labels Properly

Even if a product seems safe, knowing how to read a label is key. Many products aren’t certified, and may contain disclaimers like:

• “May contain traces of wheat”
• “Processed in a facility that also handles gluten”

If you’re still wondering are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free, these small disclaimers can make a big difference. Gluten-free labeling in the U.S. requires a product to contain fewer than 20 ppm (parts per million) of gluten, but for those with celiac disease, even trace amounts can be harmful.

Look for clear signs:

• Certified Gluten-Free seal
• Ingredient list free of barley, rye, malt, or wheat derivatives
• Brand transparency about facility practices

Preventing Cross-Contact at Home

If you’re making Rice Krispie Treats from scratch, ensure your prep area is clean:

• Use separate utensils
• Clean counters before baking
• Avoid shared containers for butter or marshmallows

By taking these steps, you can confidently say “Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free at my house?” Yes, and safely so.

Gluten-Free Alternatives to Rice Krispies

Rice Cereal Substitutes That Are Gluten-Free

If you’re still asking, are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free, and you’re looking to get creative in the kitchen, you’re in luck. There are plenty of gluten-free cereal alternatives that offer the same crispy texture with unique flavors and added health benefits.

Here are some great gluten-free options to replace traditional Rice Krispies:

Alternative Cereal	Why It Works
One Degree Sprouted Brown Rice	Organic, GF-certified, slightly nuttier taste
Nature’s Path Crispy Rice	Clean ingredients, light and crisp
Barbara’s Brown Rice Crisps	Subtle flavor, great for baking
Quinoa Puffs	High in protein, crunchy, gluten-free
Millet Puffs	Light, airy, and perfect for treats
Buckwheat Groats (lightly toasted)	Crunchy texture, nutrient-dense

Using these cereals, you can confidently answer “Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free if I use substitutes?” with a clear yes—and enjoy added nutrition too.

Taste and Texture Comparison with Traditional Rice Krispies

Switching cereals doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Many gluten-free cereals provide a richer, more complex taste and can enhance your treat’s texture. While classic Rice Krispies are airy and neutral, alternatives like quinoa puffs and sprouted brown rice cereal offer a slightly heartier crunch.

Here’s how a few options compare:

Cereal Type	Taste	Texture	Gluten-Free?
Regular Rice Krispies	Mild, toasted	Light, airy	❌ No (contains malt)
Sprouted Brown Rice	Nutty, earthy	Crispy, dense	✅ Yes
Quinoa Puffs	Slightly sweet	Crunchy, crisp	✅ Yes
Millet Puffs	Neutral	Fluffy crunch	✅ Yes

If someone asks you, “Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free if I use millet or quinoa instead?”, you can confidently say yes—and they might even like the taste better!

Final Thoughts: Are Rice Krispie Treats Gluten Free in 2025?

Summarizing Safety and Best Practices

So, after digging through ingredients, brands, and homemade alternatives, what’s the final word on the big question: Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free in 2025?

The answer is: It depends.

If you’re buying store-bought treats made with standard Kellogg’s Rice Krispies, the answer is no, due to the presence of barley malt flavoring. However, if you’re choosing certified gluten-free cereal and combining it with safe marshmallows and butter, the answer becomes a strong yes—especially if you’re preparing them yourself at home.

The most important rule is to read every label, look for certified gluten-free badges, and avoid any ingredients that list wheat, barley, rye, or malt. Even trace amounts can cause symptoms for those with celiac disease or severe sensitivity.

And if you ever find yourself wondering again, “Are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free?”—just refer to this guide and choose your brands wisely.

Who Should Avoid Traditional Versions?

Traditional Rice Krispie Treats should be avoided by:

• People with celiac disease
• Individuals with gluten intolerance or non-celiac gluten sensitivity
• Anyone following a strict gluten-free lifestyle

For these individuals, gluten isn’t just a dietary choice—it’s a health necessity. And with so many delicious gluten-free crispy treat recipes and safe brands available today, there’s no reason to miss out.

You can still enjoy every chewy, crispy bite—without the gluten.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

So, are Rice Krispie Treats gluten free? The truth is—they can be. But only when made with certified gluten-free ingredients and free from hidden sources of gluten like barley malt or cross-contaminated marshmallows.

If you’re buying store-bought treats or making your own, always read the labels, choose trusted brands, and understand where gluten might be hiding. And remember, when done right, gluten-free Rice Krispie treats are just as chewy, sweet, and satisfying as the originals.

Want to try it for yourself?
Check out our Amazing Strawberry Banana Pudding: A Sweet Treat! that’s celiac-safe and family-approved!