Name: Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls: Irresistible Sweet Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 52 min
Ingredients: 14 ounces caramels (about 50 wrapped Kraft caramels); 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk (don’t confuse with evaporated milk); 2 tablespoons butter (adds richness); 12 ounces marshmallows (preferably large); 7 cups Rice Krispies cereal

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The moment I pulled that pan of gooey caramel marshmallow goodness from the stove, my kitchen filled with a fragrant warmth that screamed comfort. These Easy Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls are not just a treat; they’re a fun, hands-on dessert experience that the whole family can dive into. It doesn’t get much easier than this no-bake delight, which pairs the chewy richness of caramel with the enticing crunch of crispy cereal. Not only are these bites a surefire hit for holiday gatherings and movie nights, but they also make perfect homemade gifts for your neighbors. If you’re craving something sweet that has a twist on the classic Rice Krispie treat, you’ll want to stick around for this recipe! Ready to get your hands sticky and your heart happy? Let’s dive into these delectable creations!

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Why Are These Rice Krispie Balls Amazing?

Irresistible Sweetness: Each bite is a delightful blend of chewy caramel and fluffy marshmallows, offering a flavor that’s simply hard to resist.

No-Bake Simplicity: With just a few straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these delicious treats without the need for baking.

Family Fun: Get everyone involved in the kitchen! These Rice Krispie Balls are fun to make together, creating lasting memories and laughter.

Perfect for Gifting: Ideal for holiday gatherings or as neighborly treats, they come beautifully wrapped, spreading joy wherever they go.

Versatile Twist: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Swap Rice Krispies for nuts or drizzle them with chocolate for a unique flair—every variation is equally delicious.

Elevate your dessert game today, and don’t forget to check out my Cheesy Rice Casserole or Caribbean Chicken Rice for more family-friendly recipes!

Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Ingredients

For the Caramel Mixture

Caramels – 14 ounces, about 50 wrapped Kraft caramels; these are the star of your Rice Krispie Balls, providing the essential gooey sweetness.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – 14 ounces; this gives a creamy consistency to the caramel mixture—don’t confuse it with evaporated milk!
Butter – 2 tablespoons; a key ingredient that adds richness and helps melt the caramel mixture smoothly.

For the Balls

Marshmallows – 12 ounces, preferably large; they act as the chewy core of each ball, bringing that delightful texture. Mini marshmallows work if that’s what you have!
Rice Krispies Cereal – 7 cups; these provide the delightful crunch that makes these Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls irresistible.

With these simple, wholesome ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from creating a loving treat that will bring smiles all around!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Mixture
Unwrap 14 ounces of caramels and place them in a medium saucepan. Add 14 ounces of sweetened condensed milk and 2 tablespoons of butter. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously while it melts, about 5-7 minutes, until the caramel is smooth and creamy. Make sure it doesn’t boil, as you’re aiming for a thick, gooey texture that will coat the marshmallows beautifully.

Step 2: Coat the Marshmallows
Using a toothpick or skewer, carefully dip each of the 12 ounces of large marshmallows into the warm caramel mixture. Allow any excess caramel to drip off, ensuring each marshmallow is well-coated but not too heavy. This step is crucial for achieving that luscious, caramel-covered feel in your Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls, so take your time to coat them evenly.

Step 3: Roll in Rice Krispies
In a large bowl, pour in 7 cups of Rice Krispies cereal. Take each caramel-coated marshmallow and gently roll it in the Rice Krispies until it’s fully covered, giving it that signature crunchy exterior. The combination of the chewy marshmallow and the crispy cereal will create a delightful texture contrast in your treats, making them irresistible!

Step 4: Set Up for Cooling
Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to create a non-stick surface for your Rice Krispie Balls. Carefully place each coated marshmallow on the sheet, removing the toothpick as you go. Once all are arranged, let them cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help them firm up, making them easier to handle and enjoy later.

Step 5: Serve and Store
Once your Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls have set, they’re ready to shine at any gathering! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay fresh for a few days. These delicious bites are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a sweet treat whenever the craving strikes, bringing joy to your family and friends!

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What to Serve with Easy Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls

The delightful crunch and chewiness of these sweet treats are just begging for the perfect accompaniments to create a complete dessert experience.

Chocolate Fondue: Perfect for dipping! This adds a rich, velvety flavor that beautifully contrasts the sweet caramel and crispy facade.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla bean or caramel ice cream enhances the experience with creamy, cold goodness that melts beautifully with the warm caramel flavors.
Fresh Fruit: Slices of strawberries or apples offer a refreshing, juicy bite that offsets the sweetness, adding a delightful crunch and brightness to your plate.
Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of rich hot chocolate brings comforting flavors that are reminiscent of childhood, completing the cozy feel of your gathering.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Elevate your treats even further with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce on top for an indulgent twist that friends and family will love.

These delightful pairings will not only round off your dessert table but also make each bite of your Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls an exciting adventure in flavor and texture!

Storage Tips for Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls

Room Temperature: Store your Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and tasty.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, storing them in the fridge is a great option. They can last up to a week, but make sure they’re sealed well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the balls in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!
Reheating: Enjoy these treats cold or let them sit out for a bit to return to room temperature. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the caramel too gooey!

Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful treats to suit your taste buds!

Nutty Delight: Swap out Rice Krispies for crushed nuts like almonds or peanuts for a protein-packed twist. This adds a rich crunch that complements the chewiness perfectly.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the finished Rice Krispie Balls for a decadent touch. The combination of chocolate and caramel is truly irresistible!
Coconut Crunch: Use toasted coconut flakes instead of Rice Krispies to bring a tropical flair to your treats. It’s a sweet, chewy indulgence that pairs beautifully with caramel.
Flavored Marshmallows: Experiment with flavored marshmallows, such as strawberry or chocolate. This simple swap can add a fun burst of flavor, transforming your Rice Krispie Balls into something extraordinary.
Spicy Twists: For those who love a little heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to your caramel mixture. This unexpected kick will add complexity that elevates these sweets to another level.
Candy Coated: Roll the finished Rice Krispie Balls in colorful candy sprinkles for a festive look. This variation is perfect for parties, adding a pop of color and fun!
Peanut Butter Swirl: Stir in a few spoonfuls of creamy peanut butter into the caramel mixture for a nutty flavor that blends beautifully with the sweetness. You’ll get a delightful twist with each bite!

For more delicious family-friendly inspiration, don’t forget to try my Barbecue Steak Rice or indulge in some Cheesy Rice Casserole alongside these irresistible treats!

Make Ahead Options

These Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the caramel mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, while you can’t fully assemble the balls ahead of time, you can dip the marshmallows in the caramel mixture and have them ready to coat with Rice Krispies. This way, all you need to do is roll them in cereal right before serving. To maintain quality, ensure the caramel is reheated gently if it thickens, and for added crunch, roll the balls as close to serving time as possible for that delightful texture. This prep approach saves time on busy weeknights, letting you enjoy delightful treats with minimal fuss later!

Expert Tips for Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls

Work Quickly: When dipping the marshmallows, act fast! If the caramel cools too much, it won’t coat as smoothly.
Use Toothpicks: For a mess-free dipping experience, employ toothpicks for handling marshmallows, allowing better control without sticky fingers.
Heat Control: Maintain a consistent temperature when melting caramel to prevent it from becoming too thin or burning. Don’t let it boil!
Cleanup Made Easy: Wearing disposable gloves can save you from a sticky situation while rolling marshmallows in Rice Krispies.
Experiment with Coatings: Try different coatings like crushed nuts or colored sprinkles for your Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls, adding fun and flair to each treat!

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Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best caramels for my recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing caramels, I recommend using wrapped Kraft caramels for their rich flavor and smooth melting properties. If they aren’t available, consider caramel baking bits as a substitute; they’re designed to melt without clumping.

What’s the best way to store leftover Rice Krispie Balls?
To ensure their deliciousness, store your Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them for up to a week—but be sure they’re sealed well to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls? How?
Yes, you can freeze these delightful treats! Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature.

What should I do if my caramel mixture is too thick?
If your caramel mixture seems too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of milk or cream to the pan, keeping the heat low as you stir. This will create a smoother consistency, making it easier to dip your marshmallows. Be mindful to avoid boiling, as this can affect the texture.

Are there any common allergies or dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you or others have food allergies, consider that this recipe contains dairy, such as butter and sweetened condensed milk, as well as gluten from Rice Krispies. For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free Rice Krispies. Additionally, always check for marshmallows that are allergen-free if you’re serving these treats to someone with specific dietary restrictions.

Can I substitute any ingredients for a healthier version?
Very! You can swap out traditional ingredients for healthier alternatives—such as using mini dark chocolate chips instead of candy for a sweet touch, or even trying almond butter as a coating instead of caramel for a nutty flavor. Just keep in mind that substitutions could slightly change the texture and taste of your Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls.