Ingredients
Scale
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 (10 oz) bag regular marshmallows
- 1 (12 oz) package of Peeps marshmallow chicks or bunnies (about 12 Peeps)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional for a warm, comforting note)
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter for greasing the pan
If you’re looking to switch things up, you can swap Rice Krispies for another crispy rice cereal or even a puffed wheat cereal for a different texture. For a dairy-free version, use a vegan butter substitute and check the marshmallows to ensure they’re gelatin-free. Mama Lou always said, “Make it your own,” and these little swaps keep the spirit alive while accommodating your kitchen needs.
Instructions
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. This step always reminds me of how Mama Lou would lovingly smear butter on her pans—it was like a little ritual that promised something delicious was coming.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the regular marshmallows and stir continuously until they’re completely melted and smooth. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Watch closely so the marshmallows don’t burn; the creamy scent will tell you when they’re just right.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract if using. This little addition makes the whole batch taste warm and inviting, just like Mama Lou’s kitchen on a chilly evening.
- Quickly add the Rice Krispies cereal to the melted marshmallow mixture, stirring gently but thoroughly to coat every crisp.
- Now for the fun part—gently fold in the Peeps. You’ll notice they start to melt and swirl color throughout the mixture, creating those beautiful pastel streaks. The first time I did this with Ouma, we couldn’t help but smile at the magical mess we’d created.
- Immediately transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. Using a buttered spatula or wax paper, press the mixture evenly into the pan. Don’t press too hard—you want the treats to stay light and chewy, just like Mama Lou’s.
- Allow the treats to cool completely at room temperature, about 1 hour, before cutting into squares. This patience is key, and it reminds me of the times Mama Lou would say, “Good things come to those who wait.”
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
