These Strawberry Crunch Rice Krispie Treats are a sweet, fruity twist on the classic marshmallow bars I grew up loving. They’re soft, gooey, and packed with a rich strawberry flavor, then topped with a crunchy strawberry shortcake-inspired topping that takes them over the top. Whether I’m making them for a party, a bake sale, or just a sweet craving, these treats never disappoint.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how these strawberry treats bring something nostalgic and new to the table all at once. The strawberry-flavored crunch topping adds the perfect balance to the chewy, marshmallowy base. I can whip them up in less than 30 minutes, and they always look and taste like I spent way more time on them. Plus, they’re no-bake, which means I don’t have to worry about turning on the oven—great for warmer days or when I’m short on time.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Rice Krispies cereal
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Mini marshmallows
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Unsalted butter
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Strawberry gelatin mix (like Jell-O)
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Freeze-dried strawberries
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Golden Oreos or shortbread cookies
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Strawberry or vanilla instant pudding mix (for added flavor)
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White chocolate or candy melts (optional, for drizzle)
Directions
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I start by melting the butter in a large pot over low heat.
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Once it’s melted, I stir in the mini marshmallows until fully melted and smooth.
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I mix in a bit of the strawberry gelatin to tint and flavor the base.
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I quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until it’s evenly coated with the strawberry marshmallow mix.
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Then I press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, using a spatula to flatten the top.
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For the topping, I crush freeze-dried strawberries, cookies, and dry pudding mix in a food processor until it resembles crumbs.
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I sprinkle the topping evenly over the bars and press it in lightly so it sticks.
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Optional: I drizzle melted white chocolate over the top for an extra touch.
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I let them cool completely before slicing into bars.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12–16 bars, depending on how big I slice them. From start to finish, they take around 25–30 minutes to prepare and set. No baking required!
Variations
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I swap the strawberry gelatin for raspberry or cherry for a different fruity twist.
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For a chocolatey version, I mix in white chocolate chips with the marshmallow mixture.
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Sometimes I add a thin layer of strawberry jam between the base and topping for a jammy surprise.
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I’ve used flavored marshmallows for extra strawberry flavor when I can find them.
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For a dairy-free version, I use plant-based butter and marshmallows.
Storage/Reheating
I store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If I want them to stay fresher longer, I refrigerate them for up to a week, though they may firm up a bit. I let them come to room temperature before serving. These treats don’t reheat well, but they’re just as delicious cold or room temp.
FAQs
What can I use if I don’t have strawberry gelatin?
I sometimes use freeze-dried strawberry powder or a bit of strawberry extract and pink food coloring instead.
Can I make these treats ahead of time?
Yes, I often make them a day in advance. They hold up great as long as they’re stored in an airtight container.
Are freeze-dried strawberries necessary?
They add a strong strawberry flavor and crunch, but if I don’t have them, I use strawberry-flavored cereal or just skip it for a simpler topping.
Can I freeze these Rice Krispie treats?
I can freeze them, but I find the texture best when they’re fresh. If I do freeze, I wrap each bar individually and store them in a zip-top bag.
Why didn’t my topping stick to the bars?
Sometimes the base sets too quickly. I make sure to press the topping on while the bars are still slightly warm and sticky.
Conclusion
These Strawberry Crunch Rice Krispie Treats are everything I want in a no-bake dessert—sweet, nostalgic, easy to make, and packed with strawberry goodness. I love how the crispy base and fruity crunch topping come together for a snack that always disappears fast. Whether it’s for a quick treat or a fun dessert to share, these bars always hit the spot.
Print
Irresistible Strawberry Crunch Rice Krispie Treats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 25–30 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 bars
- Category: Dessert, No-Bake Treats
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Irresistible Strawberry Crunch Rice Krispie Treats are a fruity, no-bake twist on a classic favorite! Featuring a soft, gooey marshmallow base with vibrant strawberry flavor and a nostalgic shortcake-inspired crunch topping, these bars are perfect for parties, bake sales, or everyday cravings. Easy, fast, and packed with flavor, they’re a hit every time!
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 10 oz mini marshmallows
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp strawberry gelatin mix (like Jell-O)
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries
- 10 Golden Oreos or shortbread cookies
- 2 tbsp strawberry or vanilla instant pudding mix
- Optional: 1/2 cup white chocolate or candy melts (for drizzle)
Instructions
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Melt the butter in a large pot over low heat.
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Add marshmallows and stir until fully melted and smooth.
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Stir in the strawberry gelatin mix for flavor and color.
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Remove from heat and quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal.
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Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Flatten evenly.
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In a food processor, blend freeze-dried strawberries, cookies, and pudding mix into crumbs.
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Sprinkle topping evenly over the bars and gently press to adhere.
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Optional: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the top.
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Let cool completely, then cut into 12–16 bars.
Notes
- Swap gelatin mix with freeze-dried strawberry powder or extract for alternatives.
- Use flavored marshmallows or strawberry jam for extra flavor layers.
- Make dairy-free using plant-based butter and marshmallows.
- Store in airtight container at room temp for 4 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Best pressed with topping while slightly warm for good adhesion.
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