Rainbow Rice Krispie Treats are the perfect way to add a splash of color and fun to a beloved classic. These vibrant, multi-layered treats transform the traditional marshmallow and cereal snack into a dazzling rainbow that’s sure to bring smiles to faces of all ages. I created these on a rainy afternoon with my kids, and they’ve become our go-to treat for celebrations, bake sales, and anytime we need a little extra joy.
What makes these treats special isn’t just their eye-catching appearance, but how the familiar, comforting flavor we all love remains the star of the show. The colorful layers stack beautifully while maintaining that perfect balance of gooey marshmallow and crispy cereal texture that makes Rice Krispie treats so irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This
- No baking required – perfect for hot summer days or cooking with kids
- Customizable colors for any occasion (holidays, team colors, birthdays)
- Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry
- Make-ahead friendly – prepare a day before your event
- A guaranteed showstopper that’s actually easy to make
Ingredients
- 32 ounces miniature marshmallows (2 standard bags)
- 12 tablespoons butter (1½ sticks)
- 15 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- Red gel food coloring
- Orange gel food coloring
- Yellow gel food coloring
- Green gel food coloring
- Blue gel food coloring
- Purple gel food coloring
- White candy melts or almond bark for drizzling
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with wax paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to use as handles later. Spray the wax paper with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. This preparation step is crucial for easy removal of your treats when they’re done.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the miniature marshmallows and butter. Heat in the microwave for 1 minute, then remove and stir well. Return to the microwave for another minute, then stir again. Continue this process in 30-second to 1-minute intervals until the mixture is completely smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make your treats hard instead of chewy.
- Divide the melted marshmallow mixture evenly between six different bowls. You’ll need approximately 1 cup of mixture per bowl. Add gel food coloring to each bowl, creating the colors of the rainbow – red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. Start with a small amount of gel color and add more as needed until you achieve your desired vibrancy. Stir each bowl thoroughly to distribute the color evenly.
- Working with one color at a time, add 2½ cups of Rice Krispies cereal to each bowl of colored marshmallow mixture. Fold gently but thoroughly using a spatula or spoon coated with non-stick spray, making sure all the cereal is evenly coated with the colored marshmallow mixture. The mixture should be sticky but not so wet that it loses its shape.
- Begin layering your colored mixtures in the prepared pan. Start with the purple layer on the bottom, spreading it evenly and pressing it down gently with a buttered spatula or wax paper. Continue with the blue layer on top of the purple, then green, yellow, orange, and finally red on top. Press each layer firmly enough to adhere to the previous layer, but not so hard that you compress the treats too much.
- Allow the layered treats to cool completely at room temperature, which should take about 30 minutes. This cooling time is important for the layers to set properly and stick together. Do not refrigerate, as this can make the treats too hard.
- Once completely cooled, use the wax paper handles to lift the entire block of treats out of the pan and onto a cutting board. If necessary, trim any uneven edges to create a perfect square. Cut the large square in half, then slice each half into serving-sized pieces approximately 1-inch thick. For cleaner cuts, lightly butter your knife between slices.
- For an extra special touch, melt some white candy melts or almond bark according to package directions and drizzle over the tops of the cut treats. Allow the drizzle to set before serving or storing.
- Arrange your colorful rainbow treats on a serving platter or store them in an airtight container with wax paper between layers if stacking is necessary. They’re ready to bring a pop of color to any celebration!
Tips & Variations
- For more vibrant colors, use gel food coloring instead of liquid drops.
- Wet your hands or spray them with cooking spray to prevent sticking when pressing layers into the pan.
- Try a pastel rainbow by using less food coloring for a softer look.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of flavoring to each layer (lemon, orange, mint) for a multi-flavored treat.
- For holidays, use just 2-3 themed colors (red/green for Christmas, orange/black for Halloween).
- Press rainbow sprinkles onto the top layer while still warm for extra festivity.
Serving Suggestions
These Rainbow Rice Krispie Treats are perfect on their own, but for a special occasion, try serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the cold, creamy ice cream and the chewy, sweet treats creates a delightful dessert experience.
For a fun party presentation, cut the treats into long, thin rectangles and display them standing upright in a clear glass jar, creating a colorful bouquet effect that doubles as an edible centerpiece.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Place wax paper between layers if stacking for storage to prevent sticking.
- These treats are best enjoyed within 2 days when they’re at peak softness.
- If treats become too hard, microwave individual pieces for 5-10 seconds to soften.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can make these 1-2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
Why are my Rice Krispie treats too hard?
You may have pressed the mixture too firmly into the pan or overheated the marshmallows. Heat marshmallows just until melted and gently press the mixture when forming layers.
Can I use different cereals?
Absolutely! Try Fruity Pebbles, Cocoa Krispies, or Cheerios for different flavors and textures while maintaining the rainbow effect.
How do I cut them neatly?
Spray your knife with non-stick cooking spray or run it under hot water and wipe dry between cuts for clean, precise squares.
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