Tasty Grinch Krispie Treats

Featured in: Desserts to Satisfy Every Craving

Turn ordinary rice krispie treats into bright, Grinch-themed holiday magic with green food dye, a candy shell, and sweet red hearts. Quick, easy, and fun for all ages.

A woman in a kitchen with a stove and oven.
Updated on Thu, 01 May 2025 15:03:22 GMT
Close-up of holiday-themed rice krispie bars stacked with green icing, sprinkles, and heart decorations. Pin it
Close-up of holiday-themed rice krispie bars stacked with green icing, sprinkles, and heart decorations. | cookingkitchn.com

Looking for a simple sweet to whip up at home? I can't get enough of these Grinch Rice Krispie squares during Christmas! They're so straightforward anyone can pull them off - making them with my children while enjoying the film is always a blast. Their vibrant green shade and adorable hearts make them just right for holiday get-togethers.

Why We Enjoy Creating These

This homespun dessert always wins at classroom celebrations! The simple instructions work great on hectic days, and little ones love joining in on the fun. And watching marshmallows transform into that Grinch-green color while putting these together brings real Christmas joy.

What You'll Need

  • Mini Marshmallows: They give that ideal gooey feel.
  • Fresh Butter: The foundation for amazing flavor.
  • Rice Krispies: What makes that classic crunch.
  • Green Candy Melts: Adds the festive holiday touch.
  • Coconut Oil: Just a bit helps everything melt smoothly.
  • Real Vanilla: Brings depth to the taste.
  • Heart Sprinkles: For that signature Grinch element.
  • Green Coloring: Makes your treats stand out beautifully.

Let's Make Some Magic

Begin Your Sweet Creation
First up is melting those marshmallows with butter in your pot. Keep that spoon moving until everything looks smooth.
The Quick Blend
Mix in your Rice Krispies thoroughly until every bit turns that lovely green shade.
Flatten It Down
Use a well-oiled pan and push the mixture down firmly so it's all even.
Simple Garnishing
The fun part comes when you melt the candy coating and place those cute hearts on top.
Final Step
Let your treats cool off briefly before cutting them into squares!

My Top Suggestions

I've made these countless times and learned a few tricks: don't skimp on greasing your pan, always use new marshmallows, and be careful not to cool them too long. The process is pretty forgiving but these small things will make your treats turn out great every time.

A close-up of two stacked green rice crispy treats decorated with red heart shapes on top. Pin it
A close-up of two stacked green rice crispy treats decorated with red heart shapes on top. | cookingkitchn.com

Tasty Variations

These treats are so adaptable! They work wonderfully with all sorts of cookie cutters. You can switch them up for any holiday just by changing your color schemes and toppings. They're so quick to customize for any occasion!

Keep Them Fresh

Your treats will stay yummy in an airtight container for about three days. They freeze nicely too - just wrap them tightly and save for later. It's a fantastic make-ahead option when you need quick holiday goodies!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What does coconut oil do in melts?

It makes the candy smoother to spread and stops it from cracking as it sets.

→ Can white chocolate be used?

Yep, but you'll have to color it green and adjust the mix to melt it well.

→ Why grease the pan?

Greasing keeps the treats from sticking and makes cutting them a breeze.

→ Can I prepare them early?

Sure, keep them in an airtight box for up to three days with wax paper layers.

→ Why stir while marshmallows melt?

It stops the mix from burning and melts everything evenly for the best result.

Grinch Rice Krispie

Bright and cheerful green Krispie treats topped with candy and heart decorations. A perfect holiday party crowd-pleaser.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
7 Minutes
Total Time
22 Minutes
By: Sophia

Category: Sweet Delights

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 18 Servings (18)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 5 1/2 cups crispy rice cereal.
02 4 tablespoons of butter.
03 Extra butter to grease your pan.
04 10 ounces of mini marshmallows.
05 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
06 14 drops of green food dye.
07 2 tablespoons heart-shaped sprinkles.
08 1 teaspoon of coconut oil.
09 12 ounces of melted green candy.

Instructions

Step 01

Rub butter generously across a 9x13 pan to prevent sticking.

Step 02

Heat butter and marshmallows on medium while stirring non-stop.

Step 03

Once melted, mix in the vanilla and food coloring until the color is even.

Step 04

Pour the rice cereal into the green marshmallow mix, stirring to coat evenly.

Step 05

Using greased hands or a spatula, press the mixture firmly into the buttered pan.

Step 06

Follow the candy melt packaging instructions to melt the chocolate.

Step 07

Add coconut oil to the melted chocolate and stir until smooth.

Step 08

Cover the cereal layer with the candy mixture evenly.

Step 09

Right after spreading the candy layer, sprinkle the hearts over it.

Step 10

Let it sit in the fridge for 20 minutes to harden before cutting into squares.

Notes

  1. Fits the Christmas vibe.
  2. Easy to make with kids.
  3. Doesn't require baking.
  4. Perfect as homemade presents.

Tools You'll Need

  • A 9x13 inch pan.
  • A big pot or saucepan.
  • A spatula for mixing.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy from butter.
  • May include soy in the candy melts.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 149
  • Total Fat: 5 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 25 g
  • Protein: 1 g