Description
These triple-layered, candy-striped Rice Krispie Treats are a playful, colorful twist on the classic childhood snack, perfect for parties and celebrations. Soft, chewy, and easy to make, they mimic the iconic stripes of the Cat in the Hat for a festive, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal (about 180g)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, divided (about 1 heaping tablespoon per layer, 56g total)
- 3 (10 oz) bags mini marshmallows, divided (about 285g per layer, 30 oz total)
- 3/4 tsp salt, divided (1/4 tsp per layer)
- Red gel food coloring
- Blue gel food coloring
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, divided (optional, 1/2 tsp per layer)
- Sprinkles in Dr. Seuss colors (red, blue, white) (optional)
- Nonstick spray or butter for greasing pan and spatula
Instructions
- Grease a 9×13-inch pan with butter or nonstick spray and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Divide ingredients into three batches: 2 cups Rice Krispies, 1 bag mini marshmallows, and about 1 heaping tablespoon butter per layer.
- For the red layer: Melt 1 heaping tablespoon butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Add 1 bag mini marshmallows and stir until melted (about 3 minutes). Remove from heat, add several drops of red gel food coloring, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp vanilla (if using). Stir in 2 cups Rice Krispies. Quickly press mixture into prepared pan using a buttered spatula or wax paper.
- For the white layer: Wipe out the pan or use a clean one. Melt 1 heaping tablespoon butter and 1 bag mini marshmallows over low heat. Add 1/4 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp vanilla (if using). Stir in 2 cups Rice Krispies. Spread gently on top of the red layer and press evenly.
- For the blue layer: Repeat melting process with remaining butter and marshmallows. Add blue gel food coloring, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp vanilla (if using). Stir in last 2 cups Rice Krispies. Spread on top of the white layer and press gently.
- Add sprinkles to the top blue layer while still sticky, if desired.
- Let pan rest at room temperature for 30–45 minutes (or refrigerate for 15 minutes) until fully set.
- Lift treats out using parchment paper and cut into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife, wiping blade between cuts.
Notes
For best results, use gel food coloring for vibrant layers. Work quickly when mixing and layering to prevent the mixture from setting before spreading. Let each layer cool for 2–3 minutes before adding the next for clean stripes. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month. These treats are nut-free and can be made gluten-free or dairy-free with ingredient swaps.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (1/24th of pan
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 70
- Fat: 2
- Saturated Fat: 1.5
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Protein: 1
Keywords: Rice Krispie Treats, Dr. Seuss, party dessert, colorful bars, kids snack, Cat in the Hat, bake sale, easy treats, triple tone, marshmallow bars