Lemon Rice Krispy Treats Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Rice Krispy Treats are a bright, zesty twist on a classic childhood favorite. With a refreshing lemon flavor and a smooth white chocolate drizzle, these treats are perfect for spring gatherings or a cheerful snack anytime.

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. Don’t press too hard—you want them to stay soft and chewy.
5. Step 5: Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Drizzle over the top of the bars and 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

• For a stronger lemon flavor, add extra lemon zest or a few drops of lemon juice to the marshmallow mixture.
• You can substitute white chocolate chips with lemon-flavored candy melts for an intensified citrus taste.
• Press the mixture gently to keep the treats light and chewy rather than compact and dense.

Storage

Store the Lemon Rice Krispy Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to a week. If chilled, allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. They do not require reheating.

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 marshmallows if lemon-flavored ones aren’t available. Just add the lemon zest and extract to maintain the citrus flavor.

Can these treats be made gluten-free?

Rice Krispies cereal is typically gluten-free, but check the packaging to be sure. Using certified gluten-free cereal ensures the treats are safe for those avoiding gluten.

Lemon Rice Krispy Treats Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 146 reviews

These Lemon Rice Krispy Treats are a delightful twist on the classic marshmallow and cereal snack, infused with bright lemon zest and a hint of lemon extract for a refreshing citrus flavor. Topped with melted white chocolate and a sprinkle of lemon zest, these soft and chewy bars offer the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, making them a fun and easy treat for any occasion.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 squares 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

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

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the treats later.
2. Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. Then, mix in the lemon zest and lemon extract if using to infuse the citrus flavor.
3. Combine with Cereal: Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until all the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
4. Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it down evenly using a buttered spatula or wax paper. Be careful not to press too hard to keep the treats soft and chewy.
5. Decorate with White Chocolate: Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the top of the bars and sprinkle with additional lemon zest or fine lemon peel curls for garnish.
6. Set and Serve: Allow the lemon rice krispy treats to cool and set for at least 30 minutes. Once firm, cut into squares and enjoy your refreshing citrus snack.

Notes

• Using half lemon-flavored marshmallows intensifies the lemon flavor, but you can use all classic marshmallows if desired.
• Press the mixture gently to avoid making the treats too hard; they should remain soft and chewy.
• White chocolate adds a creamy sweetness; alternatively, you can drizzle with melted lemon-flavored candy melts.
• For a stronger lemon flavor, add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of lemon extract or additional lemon zest.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Keywords: lemon rice krispy treats, lemon dessert, marshmallow treats, white chocolate, citrus snack, easy no bake dessert