“Holiday Rice Krispie M&Ms Bars

Name: "Holiday Rice Krispie M&Ms Bars: Irresistibly Delicious!"
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons butter; 1 package (10 oz) marshmallows; 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal; 1 cup M&Ms

Posted on August 5, 2025

Desserts

Introduction to Holiday Rice Krispie M&Ms Bars

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself searching for quick and delightful treats that bring joy to my family. That’s where these Holiday Rice Krispie M&Ms Bars come in! They’re not just easy to whip up; they also add a splash of color and sweetness to any gathering. Whether you’re a busy mom juggling work and family or a professional looking to impress your loved ones, these bars are the perfect solution. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a festive dessert that everyone will adore!

Why You’ll Love This Holiday Rice Krispie M&Ms Bars

These Holiday Rice Krispie M&Ms Bars are a lifesaver for busy days! They come together in just 15 minutes, making them a fantastic last-minute treat. The combination of gooey marshmallows and crunchy Rice Krispies creates a delightful texture that kids and adults alike will love. Plus, the colorful M&Ms add a festive touch that brightens up any holiday table. Trust me, they’ll disappear faster than you can say “holiday cheer!”

Ingredients for Holiday Rice Krispie M&Ms Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Holiday Rice Krispie M&Ms Bars. Here’s what you’ll need:

Butter: This adds richness and helps bind everything together. I prefer unsalted butter for better control over the sweetness.
Marshmallows: The star of the show! They provide that gooey texture we all love. Mini marshmallows work great, but regular ones can be cut in half.
Rice Krispies cereal: This gives the bars their signature crunch. You can also use other puffed cereals if you want to mix things up.
M&Ms: These colorful candies not only add sweetness but also a festive flair. Feel free to use holiday-themed M&Ms for an extra touch of cheer!

For those looking to customize, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt for contrast or a dash of vanilla extract for added flavor. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Holiday Rice Krispie M&Ms Bars

Making these Holiday Rice Krispie M&Ms Bars is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a festive treat ready in no time. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Start by placing your butter in a large saucepan over low heat. It’s important to keep the heat low to prevent the butter from burning. Stir it gently as it melts, watching it transform into a golden liquid. This step sets the stage for that delicious, gooey texture we all crave!

Step 2: Add the Marshmallows

Once the butter is melted, it’s time to add the marshmallows. Pour them into the saucepan and stir continuously. You want to keep stirring until they’re completely melted and smooth. This is where the magic happens! The mixture should look like a fluffy cloud, ready to embrace the Rice Krispies.

Step 3: Combine with Rice Krispies

Now, remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully add the Rice Krispies cereal to the melted marshmallow mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly, ensuring every piece of cereal is coated. This is the crunch factor that makes these bars so delightful!

Step 4: Fold in M&Ms

Next, it’s time to add the M&Ms. Gently fold them into the mixture, being careful not to crush them. You want those vibrant colors to shine through in your bars. This step adds a pop of sweetness and a festive touch that everyone will love!

Step 5: Press into Pan

Grab a greased 9×13 inch pan and pour the mixture into it. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased) to press the mixture evenly into the pan. Make sure it’s packed down well, so your bars hold together nicely. This is where the magic solidifies!

Step 6: Cool and Cut

Patience is key here! Allow the mixture to cool completely before cutting it into bars. This cooling time helps the bars set, making them easier to slice. Once they’re cool, grab a sharp knife and cut them into squares. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Tips for Success

Use fresh marshmallows for the best texture; stale ones can be hard to melt.
Grease your hands or spatula when pressing the mixture into the pan to prevent sticking.
For a fun twist, try mixing in different types of candies or nuts.
Store the bars in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy.
Cut the bars with a sharp knife for clean edges and a beautiful presentation.

Equipment Needed

Large saucepan: A heavy-bottomed pan works best to prevent burning.
Spatula: Use a silicone spatula for easy mixing and scraping.
9×13 inch pan: Any similar-sized baking dish will do if you don’t have this exact size.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurate ingredient portions.

Variations of Holiday Rice Krispie M&Ms Bars

Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled bars for an extra layer of sweetness.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for a crunchy texture and added flavor.
Peanut Butter Twist: Mix in a few tablespoons of peanut butter with the melted marshmallows for a rich, nutty taste.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute Rice Krispies with gluten-free puffed rice cereal to accommodate dietary needs.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a chewy, fruity surprise.

Serving Suggestions for Holiday Rice Krispie M&Ms Bars

Pair these bars with a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
Serve alongside a festive fruit platter for a colorful contrast.
For a fun presentation, cut the bars into holiday shapes using cookie cutters.
Wrap individual bars in cellophane and tie with a ribbon for delightful party favors.

FAQs about Holiday Rice Krispie M&Ms Bars

Can I make these Holiday Rice Krispie M&Ms Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They’ll be ready to impress your guests when the time comes!

What can I substitute for M&Ms?

If M&Ms aren’t your thing, feel free to swap them out for other candies like chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, or even dried fruit. The possibilities are endless!

How do I store leftover bars?

To keep your Holiday Rice Krispie M&Ms Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay delicious for about a week, if they last that long!

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll be good for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

What’s the best way to cut the bars?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and cut the bars while they’re still slightly warm. This helps prevent them from crumbling. Enjoy your perfectly shaped treats!

Final Thoughts

Creating these Holiday Rice Krispie M&Ms Bars is more than just making a treat; it’s about sharing joy and warmth with loved ones. The delightful crunch paired with the gooey sweetness brings smiles to faces, making every bite a little celebration. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these bars are sure to be a hit. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to involve the kids in the kitchen! So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the holiday spirit shine through your delicious creations!