If you’re searching for a brilliantly fun and utterly irresistible treat, look no further than Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats. These bars take that classic childhood snack and raise it to whole new heights thanks to sweet bits of maraschino cherry tucked into gooey marshmallows, all snuggled into crispy cereal and topped with a thick, glossy layer of chocolate. Whether you’re looking to impress at a bake sale or just spoil your loved ones on a random Tuesday, this recipe is begging to become your go-to for a crowd-pleasing dessert.

Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats starts with a handful of basic, easy-to-find ingredients. Each component brings something special to the table, whether it’s softness, crunch, rich chocolate, or that pop of cherry-red color.

Unsalted butter: Adds rich flavor and helps create that silky smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture in the marshmallow base.
Mini marshmallows: The glue that binds everything together; they melt quickly and evenly, ensuring every bite is deliciously chewy.
Rice Krispies cereal: These classic puffed rice pieces provide all the crunch and make the treat light yet satisfying.
Maraschino cherries: Chopped, well-drained cherries infuse each square with juicy bursts of color and a playful hint of cherry flavor.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the sweetness and elevates the overall taste.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted over the top, they create that signature chocolate layer and balance the sweetness perfectly.
Coconut oil or shortening (optional): This little bit of fat added to the chocolate results in an extra-smooth, shiny finish that makes your treats look professional (and taste extra luscious).

How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Let’s set yourself up for crispy, stress-free success—start by lining a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and giving it a light spray or a rub of butter. This tiny step makes it so much easier to lift out your treats later (not to mention effortless clean-up at the end!).

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows

Place a large pot on your stove over medium heat and let the butter melt. Once melted, toss in the mini marshmallows and keep stirring. As they begin to soften, you’ll feel them go from fluffy to beautifully gooey. Keep stirring until they’re completely melted and smooth – this is the luscious glue that binds the cereal together.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Cherries

Take the pot off the heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract for a gentle flavor boost. Then, fold in your chopped, well-drained maraschino cherries. The cherries should be patted dry to prevent excess moisture—nobody likes soggy Rice Krispies treats! This is where those lovely pops of color and flavor get mixed in.

Step 4: Combine with Rice Krispies

Work swiftly at this stage: add your Rice Krispies cereal straight into the pot, folding it all together until every piece is coated in marshmallow-y goodness and studded with cherries. It’s a sticky job, but watching everything come together is so satisfying!

Step 5: Press into Pan and Cool

Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a buttered spatula, wax paper, or even your clean, greased hands to gently press it into an even layer. Press enough to shape, but not so much that you crush the cereal! Set the pan aside and let everything cool—patience makes for perfect squares.

Step 6: Melt and Spread the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil or shortening (if using). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Pour it over the cooled treats and spread into an even layer. This chocolate blanket is the crowning glory!

Step 7: Set, Slice, and Serve

Allow that gorgeous chocolate layer to set up at room temperature (or pop the pan in the fridge to speed things along for the impatient among us). Once the chocolate is firm, lift the slab from the pan, slice into squares, and revel in your batch of impressive, glossy-topped Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats.

How to Serve Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Garnishes

For a picture-perfect finish, try topping each square with a single maraschino cherry or a delicate drizzle of contrasting white chocolate. A sprinkle of sea salt on the chocolate layer also delivers a grown-up twist that balances all the sweetness.

Side Dishes

While these treats are showstoppers all on their own, a scoop of classic vanilla ice cream or a handful of fresh berries on the side can make your dessert plate pop. If you’re feeling fancy, serve with a tall glass of chocolate milk or an espresso for the adults.

Creative Ways to Present

Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats look especially fabulous arranged on a platter with alternating fruit (think strawberries or raspberries) for a pop of fresh color. Pop them into mini cupcake liners for a grab-and-go party snack, or wrap each square in parchment and twine for a sweet homemade gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats at peak freshness, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay irresistibly chewy and delicious for up to four days—if they last that long!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze these! Arrange the treats in a single layer, separated by sheets of parchment, in a freezer-safe container. They freeze beautifully and can be stored for up to two months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

No reheating required for these no-bake treats. If you prefer them extra gooey, a quick (and I mean just a few seconds!) zap in the microwave will soften things up, but beware: the chocolate top may melt, so keep an eye on them.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?

Fresh cherries have a lot of moisture and may make the treats soggy. If using fresh, be sure to pit, chop, and dry them thoroughly, but maraschino cherries are still best for that classic look and flavor.

Is there a way to make these vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute vegan butter, marshmallows, and dairy-free chocolate chips, and your Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats will be totally plant-based (just check that your cereal brand is vegan-friendly too).

Can I use a different type Dessert

Sure thing—while Rice Krispies is the classic choice, experimenting with cocoa-flavored or multigrain puffs can give a new twist. Just keep in mind any changes may alter the texture and overall sweetness.

Will the chocolate crack when slicing?

To help the chocolate layer slice smoothly without cracking, let it firm up but not get rock-hard in the fridge. Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water (then dried) to glide through easily.

How do I keep the treats from sticking to the pan?

Lining your dish with parchment paper and lightly greasing it is the secret! This way, you can simply lift out the block, making for neat, easy slicing of your delicious squares.

Final Thoughts

You just can’t go wrong with a batch of Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats—they’re irresistible, nostalgic, and so much fun to make and eat. Give this recipe a try, and don’t be surprised if they become the most requested treat at every gathering!

Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats Recipe

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4.6 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 24 squares 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the delightful combination of sweet cherries, crispy cereal, and luscious chocolate with these Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats. A no-bake dessert that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Rice Krispies Treats:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1 cup chopped maraschino cherries (drained and patted dry)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Topping:

1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate)

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Instructions

Prepare the Rice Krispies Treats: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped maraschino cherries. Quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until fully coated. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish using a buttered spatula or wax paper. Let cool completely.
Make the Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the top of the cooled treats. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or refrigerate briefly.
Serve: Once firm, cut into squares and enjoy!