Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats combine the beloved crispy cereal bars with a festive touch of maraschino cherries and a smooth chocolate coating. These treats are sweet, chewy, and have a wonderful cherry-chocolate flavor combination that makes them perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion.

Ingredients

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1/4 cup unsalted butter
10 oz mini marshmallows
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)

Directions

1. Melt the Marshmallows: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
2. Add the Cereal and Cherries: Remove the pot from heat and quickly stir in the Rice Krispies cereal and chopped maraschino cherries. Stir until the mixture is fully combined and the cereal is evenly coated.
3. Shape the Treats: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the dish and gently press it down using a greased spatula to create an even layer. Let the treats cool completely.
4. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
5. Drizzle or Dip the Treats: Once the Rice Krispies treats are cooled and set, drizzle the melted chocolate over the top, or dip each square halfway into the chocolate. Place the treats on a sheet of parchment paper and allow the chocolate to harden.
6. Serve: Once the chocolate has set, slice the treats into squares and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 treats (depending on size)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

1. Add Nuts: Chop some nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans, and stir them into the Rice Krispies mixture for added texture and flavor.
2. White Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of semi-sweet chocolate, use white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier topping.
3. Maraschino Cherry Syrup: Add a tablespoon of maraschino cherry syrup to the melted marshmallow mixture for a more intense cherry flavor.
4. Holiday Sprinkles: After drizzling the chocolate, sprinkle some red and green holiday sprinkles on top to make the treats more festive.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the treats for up to 3 months. Wrap each treat individually in plastic wrap or wax paper and place in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: These treats are best served at room temperature, but you can warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer them a little softer.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cereal?
   Yes, you can substitute Rice Krispies with another crisp rice cereal or even use Cocoa Krispies for a chocolatey twist.
2. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
   Fresh cherries can be used, but maraschino cherries provide a sweeter, syrupy flavor that works well with the marshmallow mixture.
3. Can I make these treats without chocolate?
   Yes, the Rice Krispies treats are delicious on their own without the chocolate topping, though the chocolate adds a nice richness.
4. Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?
   Yes, dark chocolate will work, but it may add a slightly more bitter flavor compared to semi-sweet chocolate.
5. How do I store leftovers?
   Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
6. Can I use mini marshmallows or regular marshmallows?
   You can use regular marshmallows, but mini marshmallows melt more quickly and are easier to incorporate into the recipe.
7. How do I get the chocolate coating to harden faster?
   Place the treats in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes to help the chocolate set more quickly.
8. Can I add more marshmallows to the mix?
   You can increase the amount of marshmallows slightly for a more gooey texture, but too many may make the treats too sticky to handle.
9. Can I use a different flavor of preserves or fruit?
   Yes, you can use other fruits like raspberry or cherry preserves for a different flavor combination.
10. What’s the best way to cut the treats?
    Use a sharp knife to cut the treats into squares. If the knife sticks, lightly grease it with cooking spray to help it cut more easily.

Conclusion

Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are a fun and festive twist on the classic cereal treat. With their chewy texture, sweet cherry flavor, and rich chocolate coating, they’re perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, these treats will quickly become a favorite in your holiday or snack repertoire.

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