Indulge in Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

The Memory Behind This Treat

The first time I made Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats, it was a cozy winter afternoon at Grandma’s house. The snow was falling softly outside, creating a picturesque blanket over the yard, and the smell of hot cocoa wafted through the kitchen. Grandma had a knack for turning simple ingredients into magical moments, and this recipe was no exception. She pulled out her trusty saucepan and began melting butter and marshmallows, her hands working with the kind of precision that only years of experience can bring.

As a kid, I was fascinated by how the cherry jello turned the marshmallow mixture into a vibrant, rosy hue. It felt like crafting a delicious piece of art. Grandma let me stir the mixture, and I remember my cheeks flushing with pride at her nod of approval. Once the Rice Krispies were folded in, I pressed the gooey mass into a pan with my well-greased hands, trying my best to emulate her gentle touch.

The final act was the chocolate drizzle, which always seemed like the crowning glory. Grandma would melt the chocolate chips with a bit of shortening, transforming them into a silky, luscious topping. Watching the chocolate cascade over the cherry-flavored treats was nothing short of mesmerizing. Those afternoons taught me the joy of creating something delightful from basic pantry staples, a lesson I now pass on in my own kitchen adventures.

How To Make It (Mix & Ingredients)

Creating these Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats is a breeze and perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers. Start by melting 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whether you’re using regular butter or a dairy-free alternative like Earth Balance, you’ll want it to be fully melted before adding the marshmallows. Toss in a 10-ounce bag of mini marshmallows, stirring constantly. The key here is patience—let them melt into a gooey, irresistible mass. Once everything is smooth, stir in a 4-ounce package of cherry jello powder. This not only gives a lovely cherry flavor but also a beautiful blush of color.

Now comes the fun part! Remove the pan from the heat and carefully fold in 6 cups of Rice Krispies. If you prefer a gluten-free option, brands like malt o’ meal work just as well. Make sure your hands are clean and greased to prevent the mixture from sticking as you gently press these sticky treasures into a rimmed baking sheet. While they cool, melt 1 1/2 cups of chocolate chips with a tablespoon of shortening. This ensures a smooth, drizzle-ready consistency. If you need more melting time, continue in 15-second bursts. Drizzle this chocolatey goodness over the cooled treats, and voilà—you have a decadent, crispy version of a chocolate-covered cherry!

For a little experiment, you might want to try these with my classic Rice Krispies treats or perhaps the peanut butter variation for an extra twist. Enjoy crafting these delightful bites!

Make-Ahead & Storage

When it comes to Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats, a little planning ahead can go a long way. These delightful bites can easily be made in advance, making them perfect for parties or just a special weeknight treat. To prepare them ahead of time, simply follow the recipe and let the treats cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, you can cut them into squares and store them.

For optimal freshness, place the treats in an airtight container, layering parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking. These treats will stay deliciously chewy for up to 3 days at room temperature. If you want to extend their shelf life, pop them in the fridge, where they’ll keep well for up to a week. Just remember, the chocolate drizzle might firm up a bit in the cold—let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving so they regain their soft, gooey texture.

If you’re planning to indulge a bit later, these treats also freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to a month. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for an hour or two. This way, whenever the craving strikes, your Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are ready to delight your taste buds. For other sweet treats that store well, consider trying my classic Rice Krispies Treats or Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars.

Also Read: Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies: A Nostalgic Treat Reimagined

Best Ingredients & Party Variations

The secret to perfect Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats starts with the ingredients. Opt for fresh, quality mini marshmallows for that irresistible gooey texture. When it comes to the chocolate, I find using semi-sweet chocolate chips offers a balanced sweetness that complements the cherry flavor beautifully. If you’re after a smooth, glossy finish on your chocolate drizzle, don’t skip the shortening—it’s a game-changer for texture.

Now, let’s talk variations! If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a handful of dried cherries to the mix for a delightful chewy surprise. Feeling a bit nutty? A sprinkle of chopped almonds or hazelnuts on top of the melted chocolate adds a satisfying crunch and a hint of sophistication. For a festive look, dust some powdered sugar over the finished treats, perfect for holiday gatherings.

These treats are a party favorite for a reason. You can easily transform them into bite-sized delights by cutting them into smaller squares or even shaping them into festive molds, like hearts or stars. This makes them the perfect addition to any dessert table, not to mention a guaranteed conversation starter. After all, who can resist the nostalgic charm of a classic Rice Krispies treat with a delicious twist? If you’re looking for more dessert inspiration, check out my Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars or Marshmallow Caramel Squares for another sweet adventure.

FAQ’s About Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Conclusion

There’s something truly magical about crafting a batch of Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats. It’s the type of recipe that brings joy and laughter into the kitchen, whether you’re making them with little ones or sharing stories with friends over melted chocolate. Each bite captures a moment, a memory, and a little piece of happiness.

I hope this recipe becomes a cherished tradition in your home, just as it has in mine. Imagine the smiles as everyone takes that first chewy, chocolaty bite. It’s a simple pleasure that brings us closer and makes everyday moments feel special.

So, gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones, and give this delightful treat a try. I promise, it’s worth every gooey bite! For more sweet ideas and cozy kitchen adventures, follow us on social media, and let’s keep creating memories together.

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