While rummaging through my pantry, I stumbled upon a half-open jar of maraschino cherries that immediately sparked inspiration. And just like that, I had a craving for something nostalgic yet irresistibly new: Decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats. This delightful twist on the classic Rice Krispies treat combines the satisfying crunch of puffed rice, soft marshmallows, and, of course, those juicy cherries, all enveloped in a luscious chocolate coating. Ready in under 30 minutes, these treats are perfect for spontaneous gatherings or quiet evenings at home. They promise not only a speedy prep but also a fun, chewy experience that will leave everyone reaching for seconds. Are you ready to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your loved ones with this delectable snack? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Treats So Irresistible?
Simplicity: With just a few easily accessible ingredients, creating these treats is a breeze, making them perfect for any home chef.
Nostalgic Appeal: The classic combination of Rice Krispies and marshmallows brings back fond memories while introducing a fun twist with cherry flavor.
Decadent Chocolate Layer: The rich chocolate coating not only adds elegance but also enhances the flavor, transforming a childhood favorite into a gourmet experience.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a movie night, these treats are sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s sweet cravings.
Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, they offer a swift solution for those last-minute snack needs.
For more delightful indulgences, check out our Cherry Peanut Butter Cheesecakes or White Chocolate Toffee Brown Butter Cookies that promise to please your taste buds!
Decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Ingredients
For the Base
• Rice Krispies – Provides structure and crunch; any puffed rice cereal can work in the recipe.
• Marshmallows – Adds a delightful sweetness and chewy texture; use mini marshmallows for easier melting.
• Maraschino Cherries – Infuses a tart and fruity flavor; fresh cherries can be a substitute, but they alter the texture.
For the Chocolate Coating
• Chocolate – Creates a rich, sweet layer; dark, milk, or white chocolate can be used based on your preference for this decadent chocolate covered cherry Rice Krispies treat.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies
Step 1: Melt the Marshmallows
In a large pot over low heat, melt about 4 cups of mini marshmallows, stirring constantly for approximately 5-7 minutes until they are completely smooth and gooey. To enhance the flavor, add a pinch of salt during this process. The marshmallows should be shiny and liquid, signaling they are ready for the next step.
Step 2: Combine Rice Krispies and Cherries
Once the marshmallows are melted, remove the pot from the heat and quickly fold in 6 cups of Rice Krispies and 1 cup of chopped maraschino cherries. Stir until everything is evenly coated and sticky. The mixture should look well-combined, with the cherries speckled throughout the crunchy base, providing a beautiful contrast.
Step 3: Press into Pan
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Using a spatula or wax paper, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan, ensuring it is level and packed tightly. Allow your decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies base to cool for about 10-15 minutes until it firms up slightly, making it easier to cut later.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
While the base cools, prepare the chocolate coating. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 2 cups of your choice of chocolate—dark, milk, or white—in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. This should take about 1-2 minutes total until the chocolate is completely smooth without any lumps, giving that luscious finish to your treats.
Step 5: Dip the Treats
Once the Rice Krispies base has cooled, cut it into squares or rectangles. Carefully dip each piece into the melted chocolate, ensuring that they are fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing them on a wire rack. The chocolate should glisten on each piece, adding a tempting allure to your decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies.
Step 6: Let the Chocolate Set
After dipping, let the treats sit at room temperature on the wire rack for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the chocolate to firm up completely. If you’re short on time, you can speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring that they are beautifully coated and ready to be enjoyed.
Decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Variations
Feel free to get creative with your treats and explore these delightful twists that will elevate your chocolate-covered creation!
Nutty Surprise: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the Rice Krispies mix for an extra crunch and a deliciously nutty flavor. The combination of sweet chocolate and hearty nuts creates an irresistible texture contrast.
Fruit Fusion: Swap maraschino cherries for dried cranberries or apricots for a chewy, tangy twist. This substitution will provide a different fruity flair that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Flavorful Chocolate: Experiment with flavored chocolate—think raspberry or orange—to enhance the chocolate layer even more. This unconventional approach adds depth, crafting a unique taste experience with every bite.
Texture Twist: Incorporate puffed quinoa or crispy rice cereal for an added crunch. This simple addition can create a delightful contrast to the overall chewiness of the treats.
Colorful Layers: Layer melted chocolate with colored candy melts for a visual treat. The alternating layers not only look appealing but also offer flavor variations that can be fun to explore.
Salted Caramel Drizzle: After coating in chocolate, drizzle with homemade or store-bought salted caramel for a decadent contrast to the sweet chocolate. The salty-sweet combo is simply heavenly!
Coconut Bliss: Roll the chocolate-coated squares in shredded coconut for a tropical vibe. The addition of coconut creates an exciting flavor profile that’s sure to transport you to a sunny beach.
For more luscious desserts, consider whipping up some Peanut Butter Chocolate Éclair Delight or try your hand at Chocolate Covered Banana Pudding Stuffed Puffs for an exalted treat experience!
Expert Tips for Decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies
Melt Marshmallows Properly: Ensure that the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth for a uniform texture in your decadent chocolate covered cherry Rice Krispies.
Watch Your Chocolate: Melt chocolate in short bursts and stir frequently to prevent burning; chocolate that’s too hot can become lumpy.
Cool Before Cutting: Allow the Rice Krispies base to cool for at least 10-15 minutes before cutting for clean edges and easy handling.
Even Coating: Dip each piece in the melted chocolate thoroughly, shaking off excess to ensure a nice finish without pooling.
Storage Solutions: Keep the finished treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their freshness.
Storage Tips for Decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies
Room Temperature: Keep the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming sticky.
Refrigerator: If you prefer a firmer texture, place the treats in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Thawing: To enjoy after freezing, simply leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving your decadent chocolate covered cherry Rice Krispies treats.
What to Serve with Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats
Ready to transform your sweet creation into a delightful spread? These treats bring a playful twist to any gathering!
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream complements the crunchy treats perfectly, offering a luscious balance of textures.
Fresh Berries: Mixed berries like strawberries and raspberries add a burst of tartness, enhancing the treat’s sweetness and offering a refreshing contrast.
Chocolate Milk: Enjoying your treats with a tall glass of chocolate milk creates a delightful sweet indulgence that recalls joyful childhood moments.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream brings a light and fluffy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy Rice Krispies and rich chocolate.
Peanut Butter Dip: Pair with creamy peanut butter dip for a tasty adventure! This savory addition enhances the flavor profile and adds a tasty, nutty kick.
Chilled Sparkling Water: For a refreshing drink option, sparkling water adds a fizzy sensation that cleanses the palate between bites of these decadent chocolate covered cherry Rice Krispies treats.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: Elevate your dessert table with more chocolate delights! These effortlessly fancy treats echo the flavors of your Rice Krispies creation while adding elegance.
Mini Cheesecake Bites: End on a high note with these rich, creamy bites! Their tangy flavor complements the sweetness of the Rice Krispies while maintaining a similar indulgent vibe.
Make Ahead Options
These Decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are an ideal choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the Rice Krispies base (marshmallows, Rice Krispies, and cherries) up to 24 hours in advance; just press it into the pan and cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. The chocolate coating can be melted just before serving—this will ensure the chocolate stays smooth and glossy. If you prefer, you can dip the treats in chocolate and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. By prepping ahead, you save valuable time during busy afternoons while still enjoying these delightful snacks just as delicious as freshly made!
Decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe maraschino cherries?
Absolutely! When selecting maraschino cherries, look for ones that are brightly colored and plump with a glossy finish. Avoid any that show dark spots or are shriveled, as they may be past their prime. Keep in mind that while maraschino cherries provide a wonderful tart flavor in this recipe, you can also use fresh cherries for a fresher taste, but they will change the texture.
What is the best way to store leftover treats?
Very important! To keep your decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you find they are getting sticky, you can pop them in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to two weeks—just separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Can I freeze these treats?
Yes, definitely! To freeze your treats, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply remove from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until they’re nice and soft again.
What should I do if my marshmallows don’t melt smoothly?
Oh no, that’s frustrating! If your marshmallows aren’t melting smoothly, it’s likely that they’re getting too hot or not being stirred enough. Make sure to keep the heat on low and stir continuously until they are completely melted. If you notice clumps, you can add a teaspoon of water to help, but only use this as a last resort. A pinch of salt can also enhance the flavor while melting!
Are these treats suitable for pets?
Absolutely not! Be cautious if you have pets at home, especially dogs, as chocolate is toxic to them. While the Rice Krispies and cherries themselves are safe, it’s best to keep these treats out of reach and enjoy them yourself!
Do these treats have any common allergens?
Very much so! This recipe contains ingredients like marshmallows, which may have egg or dairy, and chocolate, which could be an issue if you’re dealing with allergies. Always check labels and consider using allergen-free chocolate or marshmallows to cater to different dietary needs.
Decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt about 4 cups of mini marshmallows in a large pot over low heat, stirring constantly for approximately 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Remove the pot from heat and fold in 6 cups of Rice Krispies and 1 cup of chopped maraschino cherries, stirring until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan and press firmly into the pan to level it.
- Melt 2 cups of chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring until smooth.
- Cut the cooled Rice Krispies base into squares or rectangles and dip each piece into the melted chocolate.
- Let the treats sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.