Lemon Rice Krispy Treats Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Rice Krispy Treats are a bright and zesty twist on the classic childhood favorite. These chewy, citrus-infused bars combine the crunchy texture of Rice Krispies with the sweet tang of lemon, making them a perfect snack or dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cups mini marshmallows (half lemon-flavored yellow, half classic white)
• Zest of 1 lemon (plus more for garnish if desired)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract (optional but recommended)
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or melting wafers
• Lemon peel or zest, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the treats.
2. Step 2: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they are completely melted and smooth.
3. Step 3: Stir in the lemon zest and lemon extract, if using, to incorporate a bright citrus flavor.
4. Step 4: Remove the pan from heat and immediately add the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir quickly but gently until the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
5. Step 5: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it down evenly using a buttered spatula or a piece of wax paper. Avoid pressing too hard to keep the treats soft and chewy.
6. Step 6: Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of the bars.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle additional lemon zest or finely curled lemon peel on top for garnish.
8. Step 8: Allow the treats to cool and set for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use half lemon-flavored marshmallows and half classic for a balanced citrus flavor that’s not overpowering.
• For an extra burst of lemon, add a teaspoon of lemon juice to the melted marshmallow mixture, but be careful not to add too much to avoid making it too wet.
• Try substituting white chocolate with lemon-flavored melting wafers for a more intense citrus taste.
• Press the mixture gently to maintain a light, chewy texture instead of a dense bar.

Storage

Store the Lemon Rice Krispy Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Reheating is not necessary.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of lemon-flavored ones?

Yes, you can use all regular mini marshmallows if you prefer, but adding lemon zest and extract will help maintain the citrus flavor.

How do I prevent the white chocolate drizzle from hardening too quickly?

Melting the white chocolate slowly in short intervals and stirring thoroughly helps achieve a smooth texture. Drizzle the chocolate while it’s still warm so it sets nicely without clumping.

Lemon Rice Krispy Treats Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 79 reviews

These Lemon Rice Krispy Treats are a delightful twist on the classic recipe, featuring bright lemon zest and a hint of lemon extract for a fresh citrus flavor. Soft, chewy, and topped with a drizzle of white chocolate and extra lemon zest, they make a perfect snack or dessert that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly tangy.

• Author: Anna
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 16 squares 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 3 cups mini marshmallows (half yellow lemon-flavored, half classic white)
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or melting wafers

Wet Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Zest of 1 lemon (plus more for garnish if desired)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract (optional but adds a citrus boost)

Garnish

• Lemon peel or zest, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the treats.
2. Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add Lemon Flavor: Stir the lemon zest and optional lemon extract into the melted marshmallow mixture to infuse a bright citrus flavor throughout.
4. Combine with Cereal: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, stirring until the cereal is thoroughly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
5. Press into Pan: Using a buttered spatula or wax paper, press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Avoid pressing too hard to maintain a soft and chewy texture.
6. Melt White Chocolate: Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and creamy.
7. Drizzle and Garnish: Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the top of the pressed treats. Sprinkle with additional lemon zest or fine curls of lemon peel for a decorative and flavorful finish.
8. Set and Serve: Allow the treats to cool and set for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. Once firm, cut into squares and enjoy your refreshing lemon-flavored Rice Krispy treats!

Notes

• Use half lemon-flavored mini marshmallows for extra citrus flavor, or substitute all with classic marshmallows if unavailable.
• Pressing the mixture too firmly can make the treats tough; gentle pressing keeps them soft and chewy.
• White chocolate drizzle adds sweetness and a beautiful visual contrast, but it can be omitted if preferred.
• Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for the best texture.
• For a stronger lemon flavor, increase lemon zest or add a few drops of lemon juice but avoid adding too much liquid to maintain texture.

Keywords: Lemon Rice Krispy Treats, lemon dessert, citrus snacks, marshmallow treats, white chocolate drizzle