How to Make the Perfect Vegan Rice Krispie Treats
American · Easy · 40 min · 12 servings
These vegan rice krispie treats are gooey sweet and perfectly crispy using vegan butter and plant-based marshmallows. This nostalgic vegan dessert comes together in under 15 minutes on the stovetop and is beloved by both kids and adults.
Why this recipe works
This Vegan Rice Krispie Treats recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 40 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 175 calories with 1g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 5 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 3 tbsp vegan butter such as Earth Balance
- 4 cups vegan marshmallows such as Dandies
- 6 cups crispy rice cereal
- 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
- 0.125 tsp salt
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with vegan butter. In a large pot melt the vegan butter over low heat stirring to prevent burning.
Step 2: Melt the Marshmallows
Add the vegan marshmallows to the melted butter and stir continuously over low heat until they are completely melted and smooth. This takes about 5 to 7 minutes as vegan marshmallows melt slightly slower than conventional ones.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Salt
Remove the pot from the heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract and salt until fully incorporated into the marshmallow mixture.
Step 4: Fold in Cereal
Add the crispy rice cereal all at once and fold gently with a greased spatula until every piece is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture. Work quickly before the mixture sets.
Step 5: Press and Cool
Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan and press down firmly into an even layer using a greased spatula or greased hands. Allow to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- vegan marshmallows → homemade aquafaba meringue mixed with sugar though the texture will differ slightly
- vegan butter → refined coconut oil for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Melting the marshmallows on too high heat which scorches them and gives the treats a bitter unpleasant flavor
- Pressing the mixture into the pan too firmly which compresses the cereal and results in dense hard treats instead of light gooey ones
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 175 calories, 1g protein, 30g carbs, 6g fat, 0g fiber.
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