Recipe: Firecracker Rice Krispies Treats

updated May 28, 2019
4th of july
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Credit: Joe Lingeman
An easy recipe for Pop Rocks Rice Krispies treats, perfect for celebrating the Fourth of July.

Makes24 (2-inch) squares

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(Image credit: Joe Lingeman)

This year you’re bringing a tray of these firecracker Rice Krispies treats to the Fourth of July gathering. I guarantee they’re going to cause a fuss. They’re sprinkled with red and blue Pop Rocks, which not only make them look festive, but also means they’re seriously fun to eat. Sweet bites that pop and fizz in your mouth will bring out the kid in you and most definitely put you in the holiday spirit.

The Most Festive Way to Eat Rice Krispies Treats This Fourth of July

We already love classic Rice Krispies treats for their no-bake ease and ability to win over kids and adults alike, but it only seemed fitting to have a little more fun with them in the spirit of the holiday. Tucking a layer of red and blue Pop Rocks in the middle of the treats, as well as sprinkling more on top, not only lends an extra-sugary kick to the them, but it also means biting into a square is sure to cause more than a few firecracker-like pops in your mouth. It’s easily the most festive and fun way to celebrate the Fourth this year.

(Image credit: Joe Lingeman)

Firecracker Rice Krispies Treats

An easy recipe for Pop Rocks Rice Krispies treats, perfect for celebrating the Fourth of July.

Makes 24 (2-inch) squares

Nutritional Info

Ingredients

  • 9 cups

    toasted rice crisp cereal (about 8 1/2 ounces), such as Rice Krispies

  • 1 stick

    (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, cut into 8 pieces

  • 1/2 teaspoon

    kosher salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon

    vanilla extract

  • 1

    (16-ounce) package mini marshmallows (about 9 cups)

  • 1/2 cup

    red and blue Pop Rocks candy (about 8 packets), divided

  • Cooking spray

Instructions

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  1. Heat a large pot or deep-sided skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the cereal and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly toasted and fragrant, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside.

  2. Melt the butter in another large pot over low heat, gently stirring with a rubber spatula so all the butter melts evenly. Once the butter begins to foam, watch carefully, as it will quickly begin to brown and emit a nutty aroma. When browned, turn off the heat. Stir in the salt and vanilla.

  3. Working quickly, add half the marshmallows and stir until thoroughly melted. Add the remaining marshmallows and stir until melted. The residual heat from the butter should be enough to melt them off the heat, but you can return the pot to low heat for a few seconds if the marshmallows aren't melting easily.

  4. Once the marshmallows are completely melted, add the toasted cereal and gently fold it in until the cereal is completely coated with the marshmallow mixture.

  5. Transfer half of the mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish. Using a rubber spatula lightly sprayed with cooking spray, gently press into an even layer. Sprinkle half the Pop Rocks evenly over the layer. Transfer the remaining cereal and marshmallow mixture to the dish and press it into an even layer to cover the Pop Rocks. Sprinkle the remaining Pop Rocks over the top.

  6. Let the treats stand at room temperature until set, about 1 hour. Cut into 2-inch squares and serve.

Recipe Notes

Storage: The treats can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.