Easy Grinch Rice Krispie Treats for Christmas (Print version)

Gooey green marshmallow cereal bars topped with candy melts and red hearts for a fun no-bake Christmas treat.

# Ingredients:

For the cereal treats

01 - 4 tablespoons (56 g) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
02 - 10 oz (283 g) mini marshmallows
03 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
04 - 1/8 teaspoon fine salt
05 - 12-16 drops green food coloring, or 1/4 teaspoon green gel food coloring
06 - 5 1/2 cups (155 g) crispy rice cereal

For the topping

07 - 10 oz (283 g) green candy melts
08 - 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening
09 - 2 tablespoons red heart sprinkles

# Instructions:

01 - Line a 9x13-inch pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the parchment, sides, and spatula with butter or nonstick spray.
02 - Melt the butter in a large pot over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until smooth, 4-5 minutes. Remove from the heat.
03 - Stir in the vanilla, salt, and green food coloring until the marshmallow mixture is evenly colored and bright green.
04 - Add the crispy rice cereal and fold gently until all the cereal is coated. Work quickly while the mixture is warm and flexible.
05 - Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press it into an even layer with greased hands or a greased sheet of parchment, using light pressure only.
06 - Melt the green candy melts with coconut oil in 20-second bursts in the microwave, stirring between each burst, until smooth. Spread in a thin layer over the treats.
07 - Scatter red heart sprinkles over the wet topping. Let the bars set at room temperature for 30-45 minutes, or chill for 15-20 minutes if you need them faster.
08 - Lift the slab from the pan using the parchment. Cut into 18 squares with a lightly greased sharp knife.

# Good to know:

01 - Best served at room temperature for a soft, chewy texture.
02 - Store airtight at room temperature for up to 3 days.
03 - Use certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal if needed.
04 - Let the candy topping set fully before stacking.