Chocolate Covered Cherry Krispies Treats

Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are that sweet pick me up I bring out when I want a classic crowd pleaser with a cherry on top These are crisp gooey and lavished with chocolate so you get the fun nostalgia of childhood treats plus a pink pop of cherry and a glossy chocolate shell Kids and grown ups come back for seconds every single time

The first time I made these was for a Valentines Day party and not a crumb was left behind Now I make them whenever I want a little kitchen magic with minimal fuss

Ingredients

• Rice Krispies cereal: brings crunch and that iconic toasty rice flavor Always go for the freshest box for best texture
• Unsalted butter: adds richness and brings out all the other flavors Choose a good quality butter for a creamier melt
• Mini marshmallows: bind everything together and create that irresistible gooey pull Check for soft pillowy marshmallows not dry or stiff
• Vanilla extract: deepens the marshmallow flavor and brings in a warm note Pure vanilla makes a real difference
• Maraschino cherries: give a sweet tangy fruit bite and bring that signature cherry pop Drain them well and chop small to avoid soggy treats
• Semi sweet chocolate chips: melt into a glossy cloak adding a decadent finish Choose chocolate chips you genuinely enjoy the taste of
• Coconut oil (optional): creates a smoother shiny melt for drizzling or dipping Only use if you want super glossy chocolate

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the Marshmallows:

Add the butter to a large pot and melt it over medium heat Once the butter is melted add your mini marshmallows and stir constantly Keep everything moving until marshmallows dissolve into a smooth glossy mixture This is the gooey base that holds your treats together and a gentle heat prevents scorching

Combine the Cereal and Cherries:

Remove the pot from the heat and with the marshmallow mixture still hot immediately stir in the Rice Krispies and chopped maraschino cherries Work quickly so all the cereal gets coated and the cherries distribute evenly throughout the mixture Every bite should include crunch plus dot of cherry

Shape and Set:

Prepare a 9 by 13 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper or lightly greased Pour the hot mixture straight from the pot and use a greased spatula or clean hands to press it into an even layer Do not press too hard or you might crush the cereal Let the pan sit out at room temperature until completely cool before moving to the chocolate step

Melt and Top with Chocolate:

In a microwave safe bowl add your chocolate chips and coconut oil if youre using it Heat in short 30 second bursts stirring thoroughly after each until the chocolate is glossy and smooth Even a few unmelted chips will stir out from the residual heat

Finish the Treats:

Once your treats are set you have options Drizzle melted chocolate over the whole pan for a quick finish or dip each square about halfway into the chocolate for a fancier look Place chocolate covered squares on parchment until the chocolate firms up

Slice and Serve:

Cut into even squares once the chocolate is set Arrange on a platter and watch them disappear This is when the oohs and ahhs start

Save

I absolutely love the burst of cherry in every bite These treats always remind me of making holiday desserts with my family and sneaking cherries straight from the jar The chocolate dip makes them feel extra special like a pastry shop treat you made at home

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days If your house is warm set them in the fridge to help the chocolate stay firm When stacking use parchment sheets between layers to prevent sticking The treats also freeze well just thaw at room temperature before serving for best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have maraschino cherries you can try chopped dried cherries or even freeze dried strawberries for a different fruitiness For a dairy free version swap butter with plant based alternatives and use marshmallows and chocolate verified as vegan You could use cornflakes instead of Rice Krispies for a different crunch

Serving Suggestions

These treats make a fantastic snack platter for birthday parties valentines housewarmings or an eye catching addition to a bake sale Stack them for a dessert table or wrap individually in cellophane with ribbon for cute homemade gifts Pair with cold milk or hot cocoa for the ultimate nostalgic treat

Save

Bringing Back Childhood Joy

Rice Krispies Treats first came onto the scene in the 1930s but adding cherries and chocolate gives them a new twist reminiscent of cherry cordials You get the timeless joy of childhood snacks plus a grown up touch with real fruit and glossy chocolate This recipe is about sharing smiles and creating new memories every time you make it

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep the treats from sticking to the pan?

Line the pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure easy removal of the treats once they have set.

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries can be used if pitted and chopped, but they add more moisture, so pat them dry before mixing in.

→ How do I get a smooth chocolate coating?

Add a bit of coconut oil to the melted chocolate for a glossier, smoother finish when dipping or drizzling the treats.

→ Can these treats be made ahead of time?

Yes, prepare and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for maximum freshness.

→ What's the best way to slice these without crumbling?

Let the treats cool and the chocolate harden completely, then use a sharp, greased knife for neat, uniform bars.