Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats – Gooey, Cozy & No-Bake Fun
When the snow is falling and the air smells like Christmas, nothing feels better than a treat that tastes just like a warm cup of cocoa. These Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats capture that feeling, soft, gooey, chocolatey, and filled with marshmallows. Inspired by our popular holiday roundup The Best 25 Easy No-Bake Christmas Desserts, this recipe gives the classic Rice Krispie bar a winter makeover. Perfect for cozy nights, holiday gatherings, or a kid-friendly dessert project.
Why You’ll Love Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats
- No oven required – a simple no-bake recipe.
- Gooey chocolate & marshmallows in every bite.
- Perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or Christmas movie nights.
- Kid-friendly and fun to make together.
- Can be customized with toppings like mini chocolate chips, Mallow Bits, or sprinkles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these hot cocoa Rice Krispie bars, you’ll need:
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 packet hot cocoa mix (or 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder + 2 tbsp sugar)
- 1 bag (10 oz) mini marshmallows + extra for topping
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
- ½ cup Mallow Bits (optional, for garnish)
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Melt the butter & marshmallows
Gently warm the butter in a big saucepan over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until smooth and fully melted.
2. Add the cocoa flavor
Whisk in the hot cocoa mix (or cocoa + sugar blend). Stir well so the mixture is rich and chocolatey.
3. Fold in the cereal
Pour in the Rice Krispies and gently fold until every piece is coated in gooey cocoa-marshmallow goodness.
4. Press into a pan
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Use a buttered spatula or parchment paper to press evenly without sticking.
5. Top & cool
Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips, extra marshmallows, and Mallow Bits. Let cool for 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
Variations & Creative Twists
- Festive touch: Add holiday sprinkles for a Christmas party vibe.
- Extra gooey: Mix in extra marshmallows right before pressing into the pan.
- Double chocolate: Drizzle with melted chocolate for extra richness.
- Kid-friendly snacks: Cut into fun shapes using cookie cutters.
Practical Tips for Perfect Treats
- Don’t overheat the marshmallows, low heat keeps them soft and gooey.
- Butter your spatula before pressing to avoid sticking.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- For chewier bars, use slightly less cereal.
Bonus Ideas: Beyond Christmas
While these bars scream holiday comfort, they also work year-round:
- Make them for winter birthday parties.
- Serve at sleepovers with hot cocoa.
- Cut into small squares for school lunchbox treats.
- Add pastel sprinkles for Easter or spring celebrations.
Warm & Gooey Hot Chocolate Treats for Every Occasion
These Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats are more than just dessert, they’re a taste of winter coziness. Whether you serve them at a Christmas party, pack them for a holiday potluck, or enjoy them with a mug of cocoa by the fire, they’ll always be a hit.
Pin this cozy idea, share it with friends, and try the recipe today!
FAQ: Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats Recipe Tips
Q1. How do you make Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats with cocoa mix and marshmallows?
Simply melt butter and marshmallows, stir in hot cocoa mix, then fold in Rice Krispies. Top with chocolate chips and marshmallows.
Q2. What is the best recipe for chewy and gooey Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats?
For extra gooeyness, use slightly less cereal and add a handful of marshmallows at the end before pressing into the pan.
Q3. Can I make Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats without an oven (no-bake)?
Yes! This recipe is entirely no-bake. You just need a stovetop or microwave to melt the butter and marshmallows.
Q4. How do you keep Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats soft and fresh for days?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature with parchment paper between layers. Avoid the fridge, it can make them hard.
Q5. Can I make gluten-free or dairy-free Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats?
Yes. Use gluten-free cereal, dairy-free butter, and vegan marshmallows. The recipe works the same.
Q6. How do you add mini marshmallows or Mallow Bits to Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats?
Press them gently on top right after spreading the mixture in the pan so they stick before cooling.
Q7. Can I prepare Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats ahead of time for parties?
Absolutely. Make them up to 2 days in advance and keep sealed in a container.
Q8. How long do Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats last at room temperature?
They last about 3–4 days when stored properly.
Q9. What’s the easiest way to cut Rice Krispie Treats without sticking?
Use a sharp knife greased with butter or sprayed with cooking spray.
