Red, White and Blue Crispy Rice Treats

These Red, White and Blue Crispy Rice Treats are the perfect festive dessert for your Fourth of July celebrations or summer cookouts. With their vibrant layers and sweet flavor, these treats bring both fun and nostalgia to any occasion. Easy to prepare, they require just a few simple ingredients and minimal time in the kitchen. Plus, the colorful sprinkles on top make them visually appealing, ensuring they’ll be the highlight of your dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than an hour, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Customizable Layers: The use of food coloring allows you to create vibrant layers that can be adjusted for different occasions or holidays.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen, especially when it comes to mixing and pressing the cereal mix into layers.
• Portable Treats: These crispy rice treats are easy to pack up and take along to parties or picnics, making them a versatile dessert option.
• Deliciously Sweet: The combination of marshmallows and butter creates a chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the crunchy rice cereal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Red, White and Blue Crispy Rice Treats, gather a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick baking spray
• 9-by-9-inch baking dish
• Aluminum foil
• 3 medium microwave-safe bowls
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick baking spray: Prevents sticking, ensuring your treats come out cleanly from the pan.
• 9-by-9-inch baking dish: The perfect size for achieving thick layers of treats that hold their shape when cut.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for mixing and transferring sticky mixtures without leaving anything behind.

Ingredients

For the Treats

• Nonstick cooking spray, for the baking dish
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into tablespoons
• One 10-ounce bag mini marshmallows
• 5 1/4 cups crispy rice cereal, such as Rice Krispies
• 1/2 teaspoon blue gel food coloring (see Cook’s Note)
• 1/2 teaspoon red gel food coloring

For Garnish

• 1/4 cup mixed red, white and blue sprinkles

How to Make Red, White and Blue Crispy Rice Treats

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Line a 9-by-9-inch baking dish with aluminum foil. Leave a 2-inch overhang on two opposite sides to help lift out the treats later. Lightly spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Make the Blue Layer

Divide the butter and marshmallows among three medium microwave-safe bowls. In one bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of butter with about 2 cups of marshmallows. Microwave until melted and puffy (about 60 seconds). Stir in blue gel food coloring until smooth.
* Add 1 3/4 cups crispy rice cereal to this mixture.
* Stir with a rubber spatula until evenly coated.
* Transfer this mixture into the prepared baking dish and press down firmly into an even layer.

Step 3: Create the White Layer

Repeat the melting process with another bowl containing butter and marshmallows (1 tablespoon each). Stir until smooth; this will be your white layer.
* Mix in another 1 3/4 cups crispy rice cereal until well-coated.
* Carefully place this layer on top of the blue layer, pressing down gently to ensure it is compact.

Step 4: Forming the Red Layer

In your final bowl, repeat using another tablespoon of butter and marshmallows. Melt until smooth, then stir in red gel food coloring until no streaks are visible.
* Add in the remaining 1 3/4 cups rice cereal.
* Spread this mixture on top of the white layer while still warm. Press down evenly.

Step 5: Finish with Sprinkles

While the treats are still warm, sprinkle mixed red, white, and blue sprinkles on top. Gently press them so they adhere well.

Step 6: Let It Set

Allow your layered treats to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until firm. Once set, lift them out using the foil overhang. Cut into squares to serve! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Enjoy your patriotic dessert!

How to Serve Red, White and Blue Crispy Rice Treats

These Red, White and Blue Crispy Rice Treats are perfect for any festive occasion. Their vibrant colors make them an eye-catching dessert that everyone will enjoy. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your treat game.

Individual Portions

• Serve each treat in a cupcake liner for a fun, portable option.
• Cut into smaller squares for bite-sized delights that are easy to grab.

Party Platter

• Arrange the treats on a large platter with fresh fruit or other patriotic desserts for a colorful display.
• Add decorative flags or themed tableware for an extra festive touch.

Gift Bags

• Package individual treats in clear bags tied with red, white, and blue ribbons.
• Hand them out as party favors to guests as a sweet reminder of the celebration.

Ice Cream Sundaes

• Crumble the treats over ice cream for a crunchy topping that adds flavor and texture.
• Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce to enhance the dessert experience.

How to Perfect Red, White and Blue Crispy Rice Treats

Making perfect Red, White and Blue Crispy Rice Treats is easier than you might think! Follow these tips to ensure your treats turn out great every time.

• Use fresh marshmallows: Fresh marshmallows melt better and provide a fluffier texture compared to older ones.
• Spray your hands: Lightly spray your hands with nonstick cooking spray when pressing the mixture into the pan. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to form layers.
• Don’t overheat: Microwave the marshmallows just until they are puffed. Overheating can cause them to become tough.
• Layer evenly: When adding each layer, ensure it’s pressed evenly so that each color stands out beautifully in the final treat.
• Storage tips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to 3 days.
• Get creative with colors: Feel free to experiment with different food colorings or add-ins like coconut flakes for added texture!

Best Side Dishes for Red, White and Blue Crispy Rice Treats

Pair these delightful treats with some delicious side dishes that complement their festive flair. Here are some great options.

1. Patriotic Fruit Salad: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and bananas creates a refreshing side that’s both healthy and colorful.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter and sprinkled with seasoning provides a savory balance to the sweet treats.
3. Mini Hot Dogs: Bite-sized hot dogs wrapped in crescent rolls make for an easy-to-eat finger food that guests will love.
4. Watermelon Feta Salad: The combination of juicy watermelon and salty feta cheese offers a unique twist that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
5. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil on skewers are simple yet elegant additions that brighten up any plate.
6. Veggie Platter: A vibrant assortment of fresh vegetables served with ranch dip provides a crunchy contrast to the sweetness of the rice treats.
7. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a classic cookout dish that pairs well with just about anything on your table.
8. Deviled Eggs: These bite-sized delights add protein to your spread while remaining light and flavorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Red, White and Blue Crispy Rice Treats can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for to ensure your treats turn out perfectly.

• Not using enough cooking spray: Skipping this step can cause the treats to stick to the pan. Always spray the foil generously with nonstick cooking spray for easy removal.
• Overheating marshmallows: Microwaving for too long can cause the marshmallows to become hard. Heat just until they puff up, about 60 seconds, and stir until smooth.
• Skipping the pressing step: If you don’t press each layer firmly into the pan, the treats will crumble when cut. Use a rubber spatula or your hands (sprayed with cooking spray) to compact each layer well.
• Using regular food coloring instead of gel: Regular food coloring can make the mixture too runny. Gel food coloring is thicker and provides vibrant colors without altering texture.
• Cutting too soon: Allowing the treats to cool completely is crucial. Cutting them while still warm can lead to messy squares that fall apart. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for longer freshness but note that they may become firmer.

Freezing Red, White and Blue Crispy Rice Treats

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Red, White and Blue Crispy Rice Treats

• Oven: Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Place treats on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until just warmed.
• Microwave: Heat one square on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds. Watch closely as they can get too soft.
• Stovetop: In a pan over low heat, place a treat and cover it with a lid until warmed through. This method keeps them from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Red, White and Blue Crispy Rice Treats?

Red, White and Blue Crispy Rice Treats are festive cereal treats made with layers of crispy rice cereal colored blue, white, and red. They are perfect for celebrations like Independence Day.

Can I customize my Red, White and Blue Crispy Rice Treats?

Absolutely! You can add different sprinkles or even incorporate other ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts for variety.

How long do these treats last?

These treats last at room temperature for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months if stored properly.

Are Red, White and Blue Crispy Rice Treats gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use gluten-free crispy rice cereal, these treats are suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Final Thoughts

Red, White and Blue Crispy Rice Treats are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them an ideal choice for summer gatherings or festive celebrations. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors and colors based on your preferences. Try making these fun treats today; they’re sure to be a hit!