There’s something nostalgic about eating sticky Rice Krispie treats. And although I remember them from my childhood, they are not something I have had for many years. So far so. This Homemade Healthy Rice Krispie Treats Recipe is a new favorite in our house.
Store-bought Rice Krispie treats are usually a bit hard and not as fresh. You can find ingredients like anything from corn syrup, GMO soybean oil, artificial flavors, and acetylated monoglycerides. And while many of the homemade Rice Krispie treats are delicious, they’re not all that healthy.
Upgraded Rice Krispie Treat Recipe
One question I always get asked is how to make Rice Krispie treats using my homemade marshmallow recipe. And honestly, that’s not what I was trying to do. My family avoided grains for many years while I was in the treatment phase. Now that grains are back into my diet from time to time, it means I’ve been experimenting with more grain-based recipes.
Of course, this doesn’t mean I’m always eating artificially fortified white flour coated in glyphosate. It’s all about balance, but still choose healthier options whenever possible. So this means that this recipe calls for name brand (or store brand) Rice Krispie cereal. I used sprouted brown rice cereal instead.
Yes, it’s still cereal and not as nutritious as a grass-fed steak, but it’s fine for an occasional snack. Sprouted grains are easier for our bodies to digest. This cereal is organic, non-GMO, and sweetened with only added coconut sugar. I’ve linked the type I used in the recipe below, but if that’s all you have, you can also use organic rice cereal from your local store.
Homemade Marshmallows
My marshmallow recipe base is sweetened with honey instead of sugar. This product contains gut-healthy grass-fed gelatin and real marshmallow root for an extra gut-soothing effect. I’ve experimented with variations over the years like elderberry, matcha, and even hibiscus rose marshmallow.
The marshmallow portion of the Rice Krispie Treats is very similar to the recipe, but you don’t have to press it into the pan and harden it first. Whip the marshmallow mixture, then add to the melted butter and stir into the cereal.
Homemade Rice Krispie Treat Variations
The kids and I love this recipe just the way it is. In fact, the first time I made a batch, the kids devoured it within minutes! However, if you want a different taste, you can also add a few more ingredients.
Sprinkle a thin layer of sea salt on the surface for a salty-sweet treat. Alternatively, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top (and then sprinkle with salt!). Sometimes, I lightly press the top of the mini chocolate chips before they completely harden. But if you don’t work fast, you’ll end up with melted chocolate all over your hands! I haven’t tried it here, but some people like to add ¼ cup of creamy peanut butter when mixing the marshmallows into the butter.
For a deeper flavor, grate the butter before adding the marshmallows. It tastes like caramel! This Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Cookies recipe goes into more detail on how to brown butter.
Here’s how to make a healthier, naturally sweet rice treat with marshmallows at home!
Rice Krispie Treats Recipe (Includes Homemade Marshmallows)
These healthy, naturally sweetened Rice Krispie treats are a favorite with kids (and parents!).
Homemade Marshmallow Base
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Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
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Pour ½ cup cold water into the bowl of your stand mixer. Prepare the honey syrup by distributing the gelatin evenly over the water and letting it sit.
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In a small saucepan, combine remaining ½ cup water, honey, and sea salt.
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Bring the mixture to a slow boil over medium heat. Boil for 7-8 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Turn the mixer on low speed. Carefully and slowly pour the hot honey syrup into the gelatin mixture.
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Gradually increase mixer speed. Whip for 8-10 minutes until thick, glossy, fluffy and marshmallow-like. Add vanilla extract at the last minute of mixing.
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While the marshmallows are whipping, melt the butter in a large saucepan over low heat.
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Add whipped marshmallow mixture to melted butter and stir until well combined.
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Fold in the crispy rice cereal until evenly coated.
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Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Using lightly buttered hands or a piece of parchment paper, gently press to create an even layer.
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Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, if desired. Let cool for about 30 minutes, then slice into squares and serve.
Nutrition Facts
Rice Krispie Treats Recipe (Includes Homemade Marshmallows)
Amount per serving (1 square)
calorie 135
calories from fat 27
% Daily Value*
province 3g5%
2g saturated fat13%
Trans fat 0.1g
Polyunsaturated fat 0.2g
1g monounsaturated fat
cholesterol 8 mg3%
sodium 118 mg5%
potassium 26mg1%
carbohydrate 26g9%
0.1 g fiber0%
18g sugar20%
protein 2g4%
Vitamin A 786IU16%
Vitamin C 7 mg8%
calcium 4mg0%
steel 3mg17%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
- Adding optional flaky sea salt transforms it into a wonderfully salty-sweet treat.
- For a more luxurious dessert, try drizzling melted dark chocolate on top.
How to Store Homemade Rice Krispie Treats
Homemade Rice Krispies are best served at room temperature. Store in an airtight container and consume within 4 to 5 days. But if your home is like mine, it won’t last long!
What is your favorite Rice Krispie treat flavor? Have you ever made it before? Please leave a comment and share below!
