
Introduction to Lemon Rice Krispie Treats
There’s something magical about watching the sun shine brightly on a warm summer day. It makes me crave refreshing treats that bring joy to my family. Enter Lemon Rice Krispie Treats! These delightful squares are a zesty twist on the classic dessert, and they’re perfect for those bustling summer gatherings or as a quick snack during hectic weeks. Easy to whip up, they sprinkle a little sunshine into any moment. Let’s face it, who doesn’t love a sweet and tangy pick-me-up that feels like a mini celebration? Dive into this simple recipe and enjoy a taste of summer!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Rice Krispie Treats
Let’s be honest: life gets busy, and we all crave quick, delicious desserts that don’t require a lot of effort. These Lemon Rice Krispie Treats are just that! Their zesty flavor is like a refreshing breeze on a hot day, standing out among typical sweet offerings. Plus, they’re a guaranteed hit at parties or family gatherings, making you the kitchen hero in no time. Who doesn’t love that?
Ingredients for Lemon Rice Krispie Treats
To create these zesty delights, you’ll need some essential ingredients that each play a vital role in crafting delicious treats. Start with mini marshmallows, the star of the show, bringing that gooey sweetness. Next, salted butter adds richness, while fresh lemon juice zings up the flavor profile. Honey provides a natural sweetness, and vanilla extract enhances the overall taste. The Rice Krispies cereal is what gives these treats their signature crunch. For an added burst of lemon flavor, toss in some lemon zest. You can also customize with candy melts for a colorful drizzle. Exact quantities can be found at the bottom of the article.
How to Make Lemon Rice Krispie Treats
Prepare Your Baking Pan
First things first, let’s set the stage for our Lemon Rice Krispie Treats. Grab your 9×13 inch baking pan. Spray it lightly with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This will prevent those scrumptious treats from sticking. Trust me, you want to make your life easier when it’s time to slice and serve!
Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
In a large saucepan, toss in your salted butter over medium-low heat. Keep an eye on it! Stirring frequently ensures it melts evenly and doesn’t burn. Once melted, take 1 cup of mini marshmallows and set it aside. Add the remaining marshmallows to the butter, stirring constantly until you have a delightfully smooth mixture. The melted marshmallows should coat the butter like a cozy blanket!
Combine Lemon Juice and Other Ingredients
Remove the saucepan from the heat and pour in the fresh lemon juice, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir them all together until fully combined. The aroma will be heavenly, hinting at the tangy goodness to come! For those lemon lovers, you might want to add some lemon extract too. This will really kick up that zesty flavor!
Mix in Rice Krispies and Marshmallows
Next, it’s time to mix in that wonderful Rice Krispies cereal. Sprinkle in the cereal along with the reserved marshmallows. Stir gently until everything is well combined. Picture that perfect blend of chewy and crunchy in every bite! Once mixed, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and press it down gently. You want an even surface, but don’t squish it too hard—leave it a bit airy!
Drizzle with Candy Melts
Time for a bit of fun! In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the candy melts and your choice of shortening or coconut oil. Microwave them in 15-second intervals, stirring after each interval until fully melted. Once melted, drizzle this sweet frosting over your pressed Rice Krispie treats. You can use a fork, or if you’re feeling fancy, grab a piping bag for a professional look. Don’t forget to add extra lemon zest on top for that stunning finish!
Cool and Serve
Let those gorgeous treats cool in the refrigerator for about 1 hour. It’s worth the wait, I promise! Once they’re set, slice them into squares. Serve them and watch the smiles light up the room as your family enjoys these zesty Lemon Rice Krispie Treats. It’s like sunshine on a plate!
Tips for Success
Here are some handy tips to ensure your Lemon Rice Krispie Treats turn out perfectly every time:
- Keep the heat low when melting the butter to avoid burning.
- For a fluffier texture, don’t press down too hard when spreading the mixture in the pan.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- If using candy melts, make sure they’re smooth for easy drizzling.
- Let the treats cool completely before slicing to avoid mushiness.
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up those delightful Lemon Rice Krispie Treats:
- 9×13 inch baking pan or any similar-sized pan
- Large saucepan for melting butter and marshmallows
- Mixing spoon or spatula for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Microwave-safe bowl for melting candy
Variations
If you’re looking to give your Lemon Rice Krispie Treats a unique spin or cater to specific dietary needs, here are some delightful variations to consider:
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free rice cereal.
- Try agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly treat.
- Add colorful sprinkles for a festive touch!
- Incorporate shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
- Substitute lemon with other citrus juices like lime or orange for a different zesty twist.
Serving Suggestions
These Lemon Rice Krispie Treats can shine even brighter with the right pairings and presentation!
- Serve them alongside a refreshing glass of iced lemonade for a citrusy delight.
- Pair with herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, for a cozy afternoon treat.
- For a pop of color, display them on a vibrant, fun cake stand.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint for an added touch of elegance.
FAQs about Lemon Rice Krispie Treats
Do you have questions about making Lemon Rice Krispie Treats? You’re not alone! Many wonder how to store them. For best results, keep these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to make them ahead, they freeze beautifully! Thaw in the fridge before serving. Not a fan of lemon? Feel free to switch it up with other citrus flavors! Need a gluten-free option? Just use gluten-free Rice Krispies, and enjoy the same delightful crunch. The possibilities are endless with these treats!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about sharing Lemon Rice Krispie Treats with friends and family. These delightful squares capture the essence of summer celebrations and lighthearted moments. Remember, this recipe is not just simple; it’s a way to create lasting memories in your kitchen. The laughter, the smiles, and the yummy bites all make life sweeter. So, gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and savor the happiness these treats bring. Trust me, every zesty bite will remind you that dessert is so much more than just a sweet ending—it’s a celebration of togetherness!
Print
Lemon Rice Krispie Treats
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon Rice Krispie Treats are a zesty twist on the classic dessert, offering a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces mini marshmallows divided
- 6 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (~1 lemon)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- ½ cup unmelted white or yellow candy melts (this makes about ⅓ cup melted candy melts)
- 1 tablespoon shortening or coconut oil or vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare a 9×13 baking pan by spraying it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat, stirring frequently.
- Measure out 1 cup of mini marshmallows and set aside. Add the rest of the marshmallows in with the butter and stir frequently until melted.
- Once melted, take off heat and add in the lemon juice, honey, and vanilla extract (and/or lemon extract) and stir to combine.
- Stir in the remaining 1 cup of marshmallows and cereal. Once all combined, transfer it to the 9×13 inch baking pan and press down gently to create an even surface.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave the candy melts and shortening or oil for 15 seconds. Remove and stir. Continue to melt in increments of 15 seconds until fully melted.
- Drizzle over the rice krispie treats using a fork or piping bag. Sprinkle with additional lemon zest if desired.
- Let your rice krispies treats cool down in the refrigerator for 1 hour or until set. Slice and serve.
Notes
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add more lemon zest.
- Ensure the butter doesn’t burn while melting, keep the heat low.
- You can use different types of candy melts for decoration.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 treat
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg