Lemon Rice Krispy Treats Recipe

Introduction

Lemon Rice Krispy Treats bring a bright, citrus twist to a classic childhood favorite. These soft and chewy bars combine zesty lemon flavor with the nostalgic crunch of Rice Krispies, all topped with a drizzle of white chocolate for extra sweetness.

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 make removal easier.
2. Step 2: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon extract if using.
3. Step 3: Remove the pan from heat, then quickly stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until all pieces are well coated with the marshmallow mixture.
4. Step 4: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press it down evenly with a buttered spatula or a piece of wax paper, but avoid pressing too hard to keep the treats soft and chewy.
5. Step 5: Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the top of the bars. Sprinkle extra lemon zest or finely curled lemon peel on top for garnish.
6. Step 6: Let the treats cool and set for at least 30 minutes. Once firm, cut into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

• Swap lemon extract for orange or lime extract for a different citrus flavor.
• Use all lemon-flavored marshmallows for a stronger lemon taste.
• Add a pinch of sea salt on top after drizzling white chocolate to balance sweetness.
• For a sturdier treat, press the mixture a bit firmer before adding the chocolate drizzle.

Storage

Store the lemon Rice Krispy treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Before serving, allow refrigerated treats to come to room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave to restore softness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes, regular marshmallows work well too. They will just take a little longer to melt fully, so melt them slowly and stir consistently to avoid burning.

Is lemon extract necessary?

It’s optional but highly recommended for an extra citrus boost that elevates the lemon flavor beyond the zest alone.

Lemon Rice Krispy Treats Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 66 reviews

These Lemon Rice Krispy Treats offer a refreshing twist on a classic snack by incorporating bright lemon zest and optional lemon extract into the marshmallow mixture, topped with a drizzle of white chocolate for added sweetness and elegance. Soft, chewy, and bursting with citrus flavor, they are perfect for a springtime treat or a delightful dessert.

• Author: Leo
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 16 servings (1-inch squares) 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cups mini marshmallows (half yellow lemon-flavored, half classic white)
• Zest of 1 lemon (plus more for garnish if desired)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract (optional but adds a citrus boost)
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or melting wafers
• 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 once set.
2. Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the mini marshmallows, stirring continuously until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Stir in the lemon zest and optional lemon extract to infuse the mixture with citrus flavor.
3. Combine with Cereal: Remove the saucepan from heat. Immediately add the Rice Krispies cereal and fold gently until the cereal is thoroughly coated with the melted marshmallow mixture.
4. Press into Pan: Using a buttered spatula or piece of wax paper, press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Apply gentle pressure to keep the treats soft and chewy rather than compacted.
5. Prepare White Chocolate Drizzle: Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each until smooth. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the top of the pressed rice krispy mixture. Finish by sprinkling additional lemon zest or fine curls of lemon peel for garnish.
6. Set and Serve: Allow the treats to cool and set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. Once firm, cut into squares and enjoy your bright, lemony snack!

Notes

• For an extra citrus kick, use fresh lemon zest generously but avoid using too much lemon extract as it can overpower the flavor.
• Be gentle when pressing the mixture into the pan to keep the treats soft rather than hard and crunchy.
• If you prefer, you can substitute white chocolate chips with white melting wafers or almond bark for easier melting and drizzling.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and chewiness.
• To quickly soften marshmallows, add a splash of vanilla extract for additional flavor if desired.

Keywords: Lemon Rice Krispy Treats, Lemon dessert, Marshmallow treats, Citrus snack, White chocolate drizzle, Easy no-bake dessert