Lemon Rice Krispy Treats Recipe
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
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
- Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the treats later.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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