Description
Our family’s beloved Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls, a recipe passed down from a grandmother, are a simple, no-bake dessert that brings joy and comfort. These treats are easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, perfect for busy parents and a favorite for children to help make.
Ingredients
0.5 cup Unsalted Butter
10 oz Mini Marshmallows
11 oz Caramel Candies
6 cups Rice Krispies Cereal
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
Pinch Salt
Instructions
- Lightly grease a large bowl and a baking sheet to prepare your workspace
- In a large non-stick pot, melt the butter over low heat
- Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until they are completely melted and smooth
- Stir in the unwrapped caramel candies. Keep stirring until the caramel melts and combines with the marshmallow mixture, creating the signature flavor
- Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt
- Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal. Mix until the cereal is fully coated, but do not overmix
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly for a few minutes to make it easier to handle
- Lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray. Form the mixture into small balls, about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter
- Place the finished caramel marshmallow rice krispie balls on the greased baking sheet
- Let them set at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can also chill them in the refrigerator for faster setting
Notes
Always use fresh ingredients, as stale marshmallows will not melt properly.
Keep the heat low when melting butter and marshmallows; high heat can make the treats tough.
Work quickly but carefully when forming the balls, as the mixture cools and hardens fast.
Grease your hands generously to prevent sticking. For perfectly round balls, press gently and avoid compacting them too tightly.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week (they may become slightly firmer).
Bring refrigerated balls back to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Do not microwave, as it can make them overly soft and sticky.
You can freeze these for up to 1 month by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: caramel marshmallow rice krispie balls, no-bake, dessert, snack, easy, family favorite, kid-friendly, rice krispies