
These reindeer rice krispie treats bring cute holiday cheer to dessert tables and make a fantastic hands-on project for kids of all ages. Whether you are looking for a fun party snack or a memorable kitchen moment with little ones, this festive recipe transforms classic rice krispie treats into charming edible reindeer that everyone loves to decorate and eat.
I first made these reindeer treats for my daughter’s winter classroom party and was blown away by how excited the kids were to decorate their own. Now it has become a tradition to craft these together every holiday season.
Ingredients
- Margarine: It helps the treats stay soft and adds buttery flavor Use a fresh stick for the best taste and texture
- Full size marshmallows or mini marshmallows: The glue that holds everything together Always use fresh marshmallows for the best gooey melt
- Rice Krispies cereal: Provides the crisp and light crunch Go for cereal with a crisp snap for classic texture
- White almond bark: Acts as edible glue for attaching decorations Choose a good quality almond bark for easy melting
- Chocolate covered pretzels: These become the iconic reindeer antlers Pick ones that are fully coated for less breakage
- Red and brown M and Ms: For noses Use bright red for Rudolph and brown for classic reindeer faces
- Candy eyes: Fun and cute highlight for every reindeer A small candy decoration aisle find
- Colorful sprinkles: Personalize your reindeer’s look with these Choose festive holiday colors for extra charm
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Spread a thin layer of margarine evenly over the inside of a springform pan using your hands This prevents sticking and makes unmolding easy
- Melt the Butter and Marshmallows:
- Add remaining margarine to a heavy bottomed stock pot Heat gently and melt fully then add all marshmallows Stir constantly over medium heat until every marshmallow is melted to a smooth shiny consistency If you leave chunks your treats will not have that signature crunch
- Mix in the Cereal:
- Remove the pot from the heat Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal Keep mixing until every piece is well coated in melted marshmallow and no dry cereal remains
- Shape and Cool:
- Immediately scrape the gooey mixture into your prepared pan Use a spatula or greased hands to even out the top Press down softly for a flat finish Let the mixture cool for about twenty minutes to set
- Slice into Triangles:
- Once cool invert the pan onto a large cutting board Remove the pan sides and base Slice the big round into eight even wedges like cutting a pie
- Decorate as Reindeer:
- Melt the white almond bark in short bursts in the microwave Stir until smooth Dab a little bark onto each triangle’s top corners and press on two chocolate pretzels for antlers Dot more bark in the center for two candy eyes Add a final dab at the point for an M and M nose Use more bark to add sprinkles at the top Allow to set so everything holds

Adding colorful sprinkles for hair is my favorite bit because every reindeer ends up with its own personality My youngest always picks the reindeer with the wildest sprinkles for herself and gives the others special names
Storage Tips
Store the decorated reindeer in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days To keep pretzels crisp add a piece of parchment between layers Avoid storing in the fridge as it makes the treats hard and sticky
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use real butter instead of margarine for richer flavor If you cannot find almond bark try white chocolate chips melted gently Rice chex or puffed corn cereal works for allergy friendly swaps Candy noses can be made with any small round candy in a pinch
Serving Suggestions
Arrange the reindeer on a platter with candy canes or mini ornaments for a playful presentation These make perfect hand out treats at school parties or cozy movie nights If serving to a crowd offer small bags for grab and go gifting

Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, either butter or margarine will work for this treat. Use your preferred brand for the base and greasing.
- → How do I keep the treats from sticking to the pan?
Grease the pan with margarine or use parchment paper to ensure easy removal after cooling.
- → Are mini or regular marshmallows better?
Both work equally well, but mini marshmallows melt more quickly for a smoother mixture.
- → What other decorations can I use for reindeer features?
Try using different colored candies, small chocolate chips, or licorice for noses and eyes as alternatives.
- → How should I store the finished treats?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.