Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

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Introduction

Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats offer a delightful twist on the classic snack, infusing the traditional crispy treat with the warm, cozy flavors of fall. These treats are perfect for Halloween parties, fall gatherings, or as a sweet afternoon snack. The addition of pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice elevates the flavor profile, while the white chocolate drizzle adds a touch of elegance and extra sweetness. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these treats are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Overview of the Recipe

This Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats recipe combines the light, crispy texture of Rice Krispies with the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices. The process involves melting butter and marshmallows, mixing in pumpkin and spices, and then folding in the cereal to create a deliciously sticky mixture. The treats are finished with a drizzle of white chocolate, making them not only tasty but visually appealing as well. Whether you’re new to making Rice Krispie treats or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and delivers fantastic results.

History and Origin

Rice Krispie treats have been a beloved American snack since the 1930s, originally created as a promotional recipe by Kellogg’s. Over the years, the basic recipe has seen countless variations, with the addition of different flavors, colors, and toppings. The combination of pumpkin and spices with Rice Krispies is a more recent twist, capitalizing on the popularity of pumpkin-flavored everything during the fall season. This recipe brings a seasonal flair to the classic treat, making it perfect for autumnal celebrations.

Ingredients

  • 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal (or other cereal of choice)
  • 1/4 cup canned pumpkin
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 bag (10-12 ounces) of marshmallows
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
  • Orange gel food coloring (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

  1. Butter a 9×9 inch baking pan to prevent sticking. Set the pan aside.

Step 2: Drain the Pumpkin

  1. Spread 1/4 cup of canned pumpkin onto a stack of paper towels.
  2. Allow the pumpkin to sit for 5-10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step is crucial to prevent the Rice Krispie treats from becoming too wet and soggy.

Step 3: Melt the Butter and Pumpkin

  1. In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  2. Once the butter is melted, add the drained pumpkin to the saucepan.
  3. Continue heating and stirring the mixture until the butter and pumpkin are well combined.

Step 4: Melt the Marshmallows

  1. Add the bag of marshmallows to the butter and pumpkin mixture.
  2. Stir continuously over medium heat until the marshmallows are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
  3. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Step 5: Add Flavor and Color

  1. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice into the melted marshmallow mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
  2. If desired, add a few drops of orange gel food coloring to the mixture to enhance the pumpkin color. Stir until the color is uniform.

Step 6: Mix in the Rice Krispies

  1. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
  2. Gradually fold in 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal, ensuring that the cereal is fully coated with the marshmallow mixture. If your saucepan is too small, transfer the marshmallow mixture to a large bowl before adding the cereal.
  3. To make mixing easier, spray your hands or a spatula with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 7: Form the Treats

  1. Once the cereal is fully mixed with the marshmallow, transfer the mixture to the prepared 9×9 inch pan.
  2. Press the mixture evenly into the pan. Be gentle to avoid compacting the treats too much, which can make them hard.

Step 8: Drizzle with White Chocolate

  1. While the treats are cooling, melt 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in a heat-safe bowl over a small pot of simmering water.
  2. Stir the chocolate frequently until fully melted and smooth.
  3. Transfer the melted white chocolate to a piping bag or a plastic bag with a small corner cut off.
  4. Drizzle the white chocolate over the top of the Rice Krispie treats in any pattern you like.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

  1. Allow the Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats to cool completely in the pan.
  2. Once cool, cut them into 9 squares.
  3. Serve immediately or store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats are a versatile snack that can be served on their own or as part of a dessert spread. They’re great for school lunches, Halloween parties, or cozy fall afternoons with a cup of hot apple cider. For a fun variation, you can shape the treats into small pumpkins and use green candy or pretzel sticks as stems.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

  • Beverages: Pair these treats with warm drinks like apple cider, hot chocolate, or a pumpkin spice latte to enhance the autumnal flavors.
  • Dessert Spread: Serve these alongside other fall-themed desserts like pumpkin pie, apple crisp, or caramel popcorn for a festive spread.
  • Toppings: Sprinkle additional white chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, or even a dusting of cinnamon on top for extra flavor and texture.

Variations of the Recipe

  • Chocolate Pumpkin: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the marshmallow mixture for a chocolatey twist.
  • Nutty Crunch: Mix in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
  • Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and marshmallows to make these treats suitable for a plant-based diet.
  • Gluten-Free: Ensure the cereal and marshmallows used are certified gluten-free to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities.

Health Benefits Notes

While these Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats are an indulgent snack, they do have some redeeming qualities:

  • Pumpkin: Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to overall health.
  • Portion Control: Since the recipe yields 9 squares, it’s easy to enjoy these treats in moderation.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the treats.

Q2: How should I store these treats? Store the Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, but they may become slightly harder.

Q3: Can I make these treats without the white chocolate drizzle? Absolutely! The white chocolate drizzle is optional and can be omitted if you prefer.

Q4: Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe and use a larger pan, such as a 9×13 inch pan, to accommodate the increased quantity.

Q5: Can I make these treats ahead of time? Yes, these treats can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container until ready to serve.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that brings the flavors of fall into every bite. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a seasonal craving, these treats are sure to be a hit. With their perfect combination of crispy cereal, gooey marshmallows, and warm pumpkin spice, they offer a unique twist on the classic Rice Krispie treat. Enjoy them with family and friends, and make your fall celebrations even more special.

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