Lemon Rice Krispy Treats Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Rice Krispy Treats bring a bright twist to a classic childhood favorite, combining zesty lemon flavor with the chewy texture of marshmallow and crispy cereal. These easy-to-make bars are perfect for a refreshing snack or a sunny dessert.

Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cups mini marshmallows (half yellow lemon-flavored, half classic white)
• Zest of 1 lemon (plus more for garnish if desired)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract (optional but adds a citrus boost)
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or melting wafers
• Lemon peel or zest, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Step 2: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon extract, if using.
3. Step 3: Remove from heat and immediately stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until well coated.
4. Step 4: Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan using a buttered spatula or wax paper. Avoid pressing too hard to keep the treats soft and chewy.
5. Step 5: Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of the bars. Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest or fine curls of lemon peel.
6. Step 6: Allow the treats to cool and set for at least 30 minutes. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use all lemon-flavored marshmallows for a stronger citrus taste, or replace lemon extract with orange for a different citrus twist.
• Press the mixture gently into the pan to keep the treats chewy rather than hard.
• Try garnishing with finely chopped pistachios for added texture and a pop of color.

Storage

Store Lemon Rice Krispy Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor. Avoid freezing, as it can affect the texture of the marshmallows.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of lemon-flavored ones?

Yes, you can use all classic white mini marshmallows if lemon-flavored marshmallows are unavailable. Adding extra lemon zest and lemon extract will help maintain the citrus flavor.

How do I prevent the treats from becoming too hard?

Press the mixture gently into the pan and avoid overcooking the marshmallow mixture. Slightly undercooked marshmallows help keep the treats soft and chewy.

Lemon Rice Krispy Treats Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 128 reviews

Delightfully zesty Lemon Rice Krispy Treats bring a refreshing twist to a classic favorite. These soft, chewy bars combine the crisp crunch of Rice Krispies cereal with the bright flavor of lemon zest and optional lemon extract, finished with a drizzle of creamy white chocolate. Perfect for a sweet snack or party treat, they are easy to prepare and sure to brighten any occasion.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 16 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cups mini marshmallows (half yellow lemon-flavored, half classic white)
• Zest of 1 lemon (plus more for garnish if desired)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract (optional but adds a citrus boost)

Topping

• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or melting wafers
• Lemon peel or zest, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare Pan: Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to enable easy removal of the treats after setting.
2. Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add Lemon Flavor: Stir in the freshly grated lemon zest and 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract (if using) to the melted marshmallow mixture to infuse a citrus aroma and taste.
4. Combine Cereal: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until the cereal is thoroughly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
5. Press Mixture: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it evenly using a buttered spatula or wax paper. Be careful not to press too firmly to maintain a soft and chewy texture.
6. Melt White Chocolate: Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave by heating in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and creamy.
7. Drizzle and Garnish: Drizzle the melted white chocolate evenly over the top of the pressed cereal bars. Sprinkle with additional lemon zest or fine curls of lemon peel for an attractive finish.
8. Set and Serve: Let the treats cool and set for at least 30 minutes until firm enough to cut into squares. Serve and enjoy your refreshing lemon-flavored treat!

Notes

• Use parchment paper for easier removal and less mess.
• Adjust the amount of lemon extract based on your preference for citrus flavor intensity.
• For a more uniform lemon flavor, zest the lemon before melting the marshmallows to mix it evenly.
• These treats are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
• You can substitute white chocolate chips with candy melts or additional lemon-flavored white chocolate for an extra punch of lemon.

Keywords: Lemon Rice Krispy Treats, lemon marshmallow bars, lemon dessert, easy lemon snacks, white chocolate treats, chewy cereal bars