If you’re looking for a nostalgic twist on a classic treat, this Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats Recipe is exactly what your sweet tooth needs. Imagine the satisfying crunch of Rice Krispies cereal melting in your mouth, enhanced by chewy bursts of dried cherries and finished with a luscious layer of dark chocolate. This combination of flavors and textures creates an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for sharing with friends, gifting, or simply indulging in anytime you want a fun, fruity, chocolatey snack. It’s easy to make, utterly delightful, and sure to become one of your go-to sweet treats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats lies in the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role, from the crispy cereal providing the base crunch, to the marshmallows that bring gooey sweetness, and the dried cherries that add a natural fruity pop. And let’s not forget that silky chocolate topping that ties it all together beautifully.
- Rice Krispies cereal (4 cups): The foundational crunch that gives these treats their iconic texture.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup): Helps melt the marshmallows smoothly and adds richness.
- Marshmallows (1 10-ounce bag): The sweet glue that binds everything together in gooey harmony.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances flavor with a subtle, warm hint that rounds out the sweetness.
- Dried cherries, chopped (1/2 cup): Provides chewy, tart bursts that complement the chocolate perfectly.
- Dark chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Adds a rich, bittersweet topping that contrasts the marshmallow’s sweetness.
- Coconut oil (1 teaspoon): Ensures the melted chocolate is smooth and glossy when drizzled.
How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, then lightly grease it with butter or nonstick spray. This step is crucial so that your treats come out cleanly and hold their shape perfectly once set.
Step 2: Melt the Marshmallows
In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter gently. Once melted, add all the marshmallows and stir continuously until they have completely melted into a smooth, glossy mixture. Taking your time here ensures no gooey bits remain and your treats stay perfectly chewy.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This little addition makes a huge difference by lifting the marshmallow sweetness and adding depth to the overall flavor profile.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to fold in the Rice Krispies cereal and the chopped dried cherries. Mix thoroughly until every crisp and cherry is coated with that silky marshmallow mixture. This is the part where your treat really starts to come together visually and texturally.
Step 5: Shape the Treats
Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan and press it down firmly with a spatula or lightly greased hands. Pressing down well helps the treats hold their shape and ensures a satisfying bite. Allow the pressed mixture to cool completely before moving to the next step.
Step 6: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is smooth and shiny. The coconut oil is key for achieving a perfect drizzle consistency that won’t harden too quickly or crack.
Step 7: Add the Chocolate Topping
Drizzle or spread the melted chocolate generously over the cooled Rice Krispies treats. You can get creative here with patterns or keep it simple—both ways will taste incredible. Let the chocolate set at room temperature or pop the pan into the refrigerator for faster hardening.
Step 8: Cut & Serve
Once the chocolate has firmed up nicely, lift the treats out of the pan using the parchment paper, cut into squares, and serve. These are best enjoyed fresh but remain delicious for days when stored properly.
How to Serve Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
Garnishes
To add an extra touch of charm, sprinkle some finely chopped dried cherries or a dusting of cocoa powder on top of the chocolate while it’s still wet. You can also add a pinch of sea salt for a lovely sweet-salty contrast that takes these treats to another level.
Side Dishes
Pair these treats with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert duo. They also work wonderfully alongside a warm cup of coffee or rich hot chocolate, making any snack time feel like a special occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gift-giving, cut the treats into festive shapes using cookie cutters before the chocolate sets. Wrapping individual squares in cellophane tied with a ribbon makes for an adorable, homemade gift that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any uneaten Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh and chewy for up to 4 days, perfect for snacking any time.
Freezing
You can freeze these treats by wrapping individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months and thaw quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
While these treats are best enjoyed as is, if you prefer your chocolate slightly melty, gently warm them in the microwave for 5 to 10 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat, or the texture might change.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries?
Fresh cherries contain more moisture, which could make the treats soggy. Dried cherries are ideal because they add chewiness without altering the consistency of the Rice Krispies mixture.
What kind of chocolate works best for the topping?
Dark chocolate chips are perfect because their bittersweet flavor balances the sweetness of the marshmallow base nicely. However, milk or semi-sweet chocolate chips can work well too, depending on your preference.
Can I substitute the coconut oil for another oil?
Yes! Light vegetable oil or even butter can be used, but coconut oil tends to give the chocolate a lovely shine and smoothness that’s hard to beat.
How do I prevent the marshmallows from sticking to my hands?
Lightly greasing your hands or using a spatula for pressing the mixture into the pan helps keep everything neat and manageable while shaping the treats.
Is this Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats Recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely! Kids love the fun mix of textures and flavors. Just be mindful if there are any allergies to nuts or dairy present, and always supervise younger ones during preparation due to the melted ingredients.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats Recipe brings together so many delicious elements in one easy, joyful treat. Whether you’re making these for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, they’re guaranteed to spark smiles and satisfy cravings. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make a batch today—you’ll soon wonder why you didn’t discover this perfect sweet snack combo sooner!
Print
Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightful Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats combine the classic crispy marshmallow base with tart dried cherries and a rich layer of dark chocolate. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert, these treats are easy to make in just 15 minutes and yield 12 scrumptious squares.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 4 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 (10-ounce) bag marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
Chocolate Topping
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and for easy removal of the treats.
- Melt the Marshmallows: In a large pot over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add marshmallows and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth, creating a sticky, gooey mixture.
- Add Flavor: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to infuse a sweet aroma and depth of flavor into the melted marshmallow base.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal and chopped dried cherries. Mix thoroughly to ensure all cereal pieces and cherries are evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Shape the Treats: Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan using a spatula or lightly greased hands to form an even layer. Allow it to cool completely, helping the treats set solidly.
- Melt the Chocolate: Place dark chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Add the Chocolate Topping: Drizzle or evenly spread the melted chocolate over the cooled Rice Krispies treats. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature, or refrigerate briefly for faster firming.
- Cut & Serve: Once the chocolate topping is firm, cut the treats into 12 squares. Serve and enjoy the delightful combination of crispy, chewy, tart, and chocolatey flavors.
Notes
- Use parchment paper in the baking dish for easy removal and cleanup.
- For softer treats, press the mixture less firmly; for firmer treats, press more tightly.
- Dark chocolate can be substituted with milk or semi-sweet chocolate based on preference.
- The addition of coconut oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly and sets with a glossy finish.
- Store leftover treats in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
