Looking for a fun, colorful, and incredibly easy dessert that brings instant smiles to any summer celebration? These Red, White & Blue Rice Krispie Treats are exactly what you need! This no-bake dessert is festive, delicious, and super simple to put together. Whether you’re hosting a Fourth of July cookout, celebrating Memorial Day, or just want something cheerful for a summer get-together, this recipe has you covered. And the best part? You only need a handful of pantry staples and about 30 minutes!
Kids love the bright colors, adults love the nostalgic flavor, and you’ll love how easy this is. With layers of gooey marshmallow goodness and that signature cereal crunch, these patriotic Rice Krispie Treats will quickly become a go-to in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients
Let’s talk about what you’ll need to create these eye-catching treats. This recipe is split into three layers—red, white, and blue—and each one gets its own marshmallow mixture.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided (2 tablespoons per layer)
- 15 cups mini marshmallows, divided (5 cups per layer)
- 9 cups Rice Krispies cereal, divided (3 cups per layer)
- Red food coloring (gel-based preferred for vibrant color)
- Blue food coloring (again, gel-based works best)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for a touch of warmth in the white layer)
- Optional toppings: red, white, and blue sprinkles, or M&Ms for decoration
Pro Tip: Gel food coloring is ideal here—it gives strong color without making your marshmallow mixture too runny. If you’re using liquid coloring, use it sparingly to maintain the right consistency.
Instructions
This recipe is all about layering. You’ll prepare each color layer one at a time, and press it into a 9×13-inch pan. It’s helpful to move quickly while the mixture is still warm and pliable so each layer sticks well to the one below it.
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This makes it easier to lift the finished treats out of the pan later for clean, easy slicing.
Step 2: Make the Red Layer
In a large microwave-safe bowl or a saucepan over low heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 5 cups of mini marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth. Add several drops of red food coloring and stir until fully combined and vibrant.
Quickly stir in 3 cups of Rice Krispies cereal and mix until everything is well coated. Transfer the mixture into your prepared pan and press it down evenly using a buttered spatula, wax paper, or even your hands (just lightly greased!). Work quickly before it sets.
Step 3: Make the White Layer
In a clean bowl or pan, melt another 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 5 more cups of mini marshmallows and stir until melted. If you’re using vanilla extract, this is the time to add it—just a splash will add wonderful aroma and subtle flavor.
Stir in 3 more cups of cereal and mix thoroughly. Gently press this layer on top of the red one. Don’t push too hard or you may squish the layer below, but firm enough that the layers bond.
Step 4: Make the Blue Layer
Repeat the process with the remaining butter and marshmallows. Add blue food coloring to achieve your desired shade, then stir in the last 3 cups of Rice Krispies.
Carefully press the blue mixture on top of the white layer. Smooth it out evenly, pressing gently but firmly.
Step 5: Decorate (Optional but Fun!)
While the top is still slightly warm and tacky, sprinkle on some red, white, and blue sprinkles or gently press in a few M&Ms for extra flair. This is a great part for kids to help with!
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Let the treats cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before slicing. For clean edges, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Lightly greasing the knife also helps prevent sticking.
Tips and Tricks
- Butter matters: Don’t skimp on the butter. It adds richness and helps keep the mixture smooth and pliable.
- Use fresh marshmallows: Old, stale marshmallows won’t melt properly and can make the texture too stiff.
- Work quickly: Each layer sets fast, so be prepared before you start and move fast between steps.
- Prevent sticking: A buttered spatula or greased hands will make spreading and pressing the layers much easier.
- Even layers: Use the back of a spoon or a small offset spatula to gently level each layer before adding the next one.
Possible Variations
These patriotic Rice Krispie Treats are so easy to customize! Here are a few fun variations to try:
- Flavor Boost: Stir a pinch of salt or a dash of almond or vanilla extract into each melted marshmallow mixture.
- Color Swap: Not feeling patriotic? Use other color themes—pastels for Easter, orange and black for Halloween, or your favorite sports team’s colors.
- Natural Dyes: Prefer dye-free? Use natural food coloring made from beet powder, spirulina, or turmeric, or skip the colors entirely and go classic.
- Candy Surprise: Stir mini chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or chopped candy bars into the mixture once it cools slightly.
- Festive Shapes: Use cookie cutters to punch out stars or hearts after the treats have cooled.
Storage Instructions
Rice Krispie Treats are best enjoyed fresh, but here’s how to store them if you’re making ahead.
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Keep them soft: Add a slice of white bread to the container to help retain moisture.
- Avoid the fridge: Refrigeration can make the cereal hard and chewy—not ideal for that classic gooey texture.
- Freezing: Not recommended. The texture changes and they tend to dry out.
Serving Suggestions
These colorful bars are perfect for so many occasions. Here are a few fun ways to serve and enjoy them:
- Party platters: Slice into neat squares and stack on a festive tray.
- Lunchbox treat: Tuck one into a kid’s lunchbox for a sweet surprise.
- BBQ dessert table: Serve alongside fruit skewers and lemonade for a summer-perfect spread.
- Gift idea: Wrap individual bars in clear bags with ribbon for cute favors or handouts at school events.
- Themed display: Add mini flags or sparkler toothpicks for an extra patriotic touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use large marshmallows instead of minis?
Yes! Just chop them into smaller pieces or measure about 6 large marshmallows for every cup of mini ones.
What’s the best food coloring to use?
Gel food coloring is ideal—it gives a bold hue without thinning out the melted marshmallow mixture.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. They keep well for a couple of days. Make them the day before your event and store in an airtight container.
How do I keep the layers from mixing?
Let each layer cool just a bit before adding the next, and press gently so they adhere without blending.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a large baking sheet or two 9×13 pans. Just keep your layers even for best results.
Are these gluten-free?
Some Rice Krispies cereals contain malt, which has gluten. Look for certified gluten-free rice cereal if you need a gluten-free treat.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use dairy-free margarine and vegan marshmallows made without gelatin.
How do I cut them cleanly?
A sharp knife, lightly greased or wiped clean between cuts, does the trick. Letting the treats cool completely also helps.
Conclusion
These Red, White & Blue Rice Krispie Treats are the perfect no-fuss dessert to bring a pop of fun to your next celebration. They’re sweet, colorful, and nostalgic—with a chewy, marshmallowy texture that everyone loves. Make a batch for your next gathering, and watch them disappear in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or brand new to the kitchen, this recipe is a guaranteed success.
So grab those marshmallows, turn up the summer music, and get ready to make a treat that’s as festive as it is delicious!
Red White and Blue Rice Krispie Treats
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 15 cups mini marshmallows, divided
- 9 cups Rice Krispies cereal, divided
- Red food coloring
- Blue food coloring
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Sprinkles or M&Ms (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease lightly.
- For the red layer: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Add 5 cups of marshmallows and microwave for about 1 minute. Stir until smooth. Add red food coloring and mix well. Stir in 3 cups of Rice Krispies. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- For the white layer: Repeat the same steps using 2 tablespoons butter, 5 cups marshmallows (add vanilla extract if using), and 3 cups Rice Krispies. Do not use any food coloring. Press this layer gently over the red layer.
- For the blue layer: Repeat again using 2 tablespoons butter, 5 cups marshmallows, blue food coloring, and 3 cups Rice Krispies. Press evenly over the white layer.
- Add sprinkles or M&Ms on top while the mixture is still slightly warm, if desired.
- Let the treats cool completely at room temperature before cutting into squares.
