Name: Watermelon Rice Krispie Treat
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal; 4 cups mini marshmallows; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/2 teaspoon watermelon extract (or 1 tablespoon watermelon Jello powder); Red food coloring (optional, for the red layer); Green food coloring (optional, for the green layer)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Watermelon Rice Krispie Treats are not only adorable but also packed with flavor. The bright red and green layers make them look like little slices of watermelon, and the flavor combination is both sweet and satisfying. They’re super simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients, and are perfect for any summer occasion. Plus, they’re easy to customize with different colors and flavors to fit any theme or celebration!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Rice Krispie treats:

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
4 cups mini marshmallows
3 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the watermelon flavor layers:

1/2 teaspoon watermelon extract (or 1 tablespoon watermelon Jello powder for flavor and color)
Red food coloring (optional, for the red layer)
Green food coloring (optional, for the green layer)

Directions

Prepare the Rice Krispie treats base:

Melt the butter and marshmallows: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once the butter is melted, add the marshmallows and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth.
Add the Rice Krispies cereal: Once the marshmallows are melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until it’s evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
Divide the mixture: Divide the Rice Krispies mixture into two bowls—one for the red layer and one for the green layer.

Add color and flavor to the layers:

Red layer: To the first bowl, add a few drops of red food coloring and watermelon extract (or a tablespoon of watermelon Jello powder). Stir until the color is evenly distributed.
Green layer: To the second bowl, add a few drops of green food coloring and stir to combine.

Assemble the Watermelon Rice Krispie Treats:

Layer the treats: Grease a 9×9-inch square baking dish or line it with parchment paper. First, press the red Rice Krispies mixture into the bottom of the dish, using your hands or a spatula to press it down firmly.
Top with the green layer: Once the red layer is pressed into the dish, take the green Rice Krispies mixture and press it on top of the red layer. Again, press it down gently to make sure it sticks and the layers are even.
Chill: Allow the Watermelon Rice Krispie Treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until they’re firm and fully set.

Serve and enjoy:

Cut and serve: Once the treats have set, cut them into squares or rectangles. You can also cut them into triangles for a more watermelon slice-like look!
Enjoy: Serve these fun and festive treats at your next party or just as a delicious snack.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12-16 treats, depending on the size of the slices. Prep time is about 10 minutes, with a cooling time of about 30 minutes to 1 hour, so you can make these treats in under 1.5 hours.

Variations

Add chocolate chips or candy: For a fun twist, you can sprinkle mini chocolate chips or small pieces of candy on top of the green layer to resemble watermelon seeds.
Use different flavors: You can switch out the watermelon extract for other fruit extracts, like strawberry, raspberry, or lime, to create a variety of fruity Rice Krispie treats.
Make them gluten-free: Rice Krispies cereal is typically gluten-free, but make sure to check the packaging or use certified gluten-free cereal if needed.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover Watermelon Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they begin to soften, you can place them in the fridge for a firmer texture. These treats are best enjoyed fresh but will keep their shape and flavor for a few days.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cereal for these treats?

Yes, you can use a different puffed rice cereal or even cereal like Cheerios, but Rice Krispies are traditional for this recipe as they hold the marshmallow mixture well.

2. Can I use marshmallow fluff instead of regular marshmallows?

Yes, marshmallow fluff can be substituted for the mini marshmallows. Use about 2 cups of marshmallow fluff in place of the 4 cups of marshmallows.

3. Can I skip the food coloring?

Yes, you can skip the food coloring if you prefer a more natural look. The treats will still taste delicious, just without the vibrant watermelon colors.

4. How do I make sure the layers stay separated?

Be sure to press each layer down firmly before adding the next layer. Let the first layer cool slightly before adding the second layer so that they don’t mix together.

5. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, these Watermelon Rice Krispie Treats can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

6. Can I use flavored gelatin instead of extract?

Yes, you can use flavored gelatin (like Jello) to give the Rice Krispies a watermelon flavor and color. Just be sure to use the right amount to get the flavor without making the mixture too wet.

7. Can I make these with dairy-free ingredients?

Yes, you can use dairy-free butter and dairy-free marshmallows (many brands make vegan versions) to make this treat dairy-free.

8. How do I make these into watermelon “slices”?

To make them resemble watermelon slices, press the mixture into a round pan and then cut it into wedges instead of squares or rectangles.

9. Can I freeze these treats?

Yes, you can freeze these treats for up to 1 month. To freeze, cut the treats into squares, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe container. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

10. Can I add coconut to these treats?

Yes, shredded coconut can be added to the mixture for extra flavor and texture. You can mix it in with the Rice Krispies or sprinkle it on top for a tropical touch.

Conclusion

Watermelon Rice Krispie Treats are a fun, delicious, and visually stunning dessert that’s perfect for summer and any festive occasion. With their sweet watermelon flavor and bright colors, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering. The combination of crispy, gooey Rice Krispies and creamy marshmallow goodness makes these treats irresistible. Get creative with your toppings and colors, and enjoy this playful twist on the classic Rice Krispies treat!