Oh, the siren song of pumpkin spice! It whispers promises of cozy sweaters, crackling fireplaces, and a general state of autumnal bliss. And what better way to embrace that feeling than with a batch of Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats so good, they practically scream “fall is here!”
Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly chewy, subtly spiced square of pure joy. The familiar snap of the Rice Krispies mingles with the warm hug of pumpkin spice. It’s the kind of treat that makes you want to curl up with a good book and watch the leaves change color.
Here are a few reasons why these treats are about to become your new obsession:
- They require absolutely zero baking skills; if you can melt butter and stir, you’re golden, making them perfect for even the most kitchen-averse.
- The warm, inviting flavors of pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg dance together in perfect harmony, creating a symphony of autumnal deliciousness.
- Their vibrant orange hue and sprinkle of cinnamon sugar make them a visually stunning addition to any dessert table or Halloween party.
- These treats are incredibly versatile; enjoy them as a quick snack, pack them in lunchboxes, or serve them as a delightful dessert after a cozy fall dinner.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper. This prevents the treats from sticking and makes them easy to remove.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the marshmallows and stir constantly until they are completely melted and smooth. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Pumpkin Puree and Spices
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until well combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Combine with Rice Krispies
Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the marshmallow mixture and gently fold until evenly coated. Work quickly to prevent the marshmallows from hardening.
Step 5: Press into Pan
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and gently press it down evenly using a spatula or your hands (lightly greased).
Step 6: Sprinkle and Cool
Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly over the top of the treats. Let them cool completely at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
Cut into squares and enjoy! These Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats are perfect for a fall afternoon snack, a Halloween party, or any time you need a little taste of autumn.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the ultimate batch of these autumnal delights, start by melting the butter and marshmallows slowly, ensuring a smooth, even consistency. Next, gently fold in the pumpkin puree and spices before incorporating the crispy rice cereal. This sequence prevents burning and distributes the pumpkin spice evenly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different types of spices. A dash of nutmeg or cloves can add depth. Consider swapping out some of the crispy rice cereal for chopped nuts or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor. A drizzle of melted white chocolate on top is always a welcomed addition.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. Reheating isn’t usually necessary, but if you want a softer treat, microwave for a few seconds. Just be careful not to melt them completely!
Here are some helpful tips to make sure your Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats are the best they can be:
- Measure your ingredients precisely for the perfect balance of pumpkin spice and sweetness. Too much of one thing can throw off the whole treat!
- Use fresh marshmallows for the best gooey texture. Stale marshmallows won’t melt as smoothly, leading to a less desirable result.
- Don’t overmix the cereal when you add it to the marshmallow mixture. Gentle folding prevents crushing the cereal and maintains that delightful crispiness.
(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)
Last year, I brought these to a fall picnic and they were gone in minutes! Even my friend who claims to hate pumpkin spice admitted they were dangerously addictive.
Conclusion for Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats :
Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for autumn celebrations or simply a cozy afternoon snack. Remember to not overcook the marshmallows, feel free to experiment with other cereals, and get creative with decorations. Storing them properly will keep them fresh and soft, but be warned – these treats have a tendency to disappear quickly! The ease of preparation and the wonderful blend of familiar and seasonal flavors make this recipe a surefire hit.
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Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats
Delicious pumpkin spice rice krispie treats recipe with detailed instructions and nutritional information.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 (10 ounce) package large marshmallows
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted.
- Step 2: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Step 3: Add the Rice Krispies cereal and chopped pecans (if using) to the marshmallow mixture. Gently fold until the cereal is evenly coated.
- Step 4: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Step 5: Gently press the mixture evenly into the dish using a spatula or greased hands.
- Step 6: Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Store leftover treats in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them chewy and fresh for up to 3 days.
- If your treats become a little firm, microwave individual squares for just a few seconds to soften them up slightly before serving.
- Cut into squares and serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra pumpkin pie spice for a festive touch.
- For an extra nutty flavor boost, lightly toast the pecans in a dry skillet before adding them to the cereal mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
FAQs :
How do I keep my Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats from being too hard?
Ah, the million-dollar question! Nobody wants a jaw workout when they’re expecting a delightful treat. The key is to not overcook the marshmallow mixture. Melt them until they’re just smooth and combined with the butter. Overcooking leads to a hard, unyielding texture. Also, avoid packing the mixture too tightly into the pan. A gentle press is all you need. Finally, use fresh marshmallows! Stale marshmallows don’t melt as well and can contribute to a tougher treat. Experiment with different types of marshmallows for varying levels of softness too.
Can I use a different type of cereal for these Pumpkin Spice Treats?
While Rice Krispies give these treats their signature snap, crackle, and pop (literally!), you can certainly experiment! Corn flakes would offer a different, slightly heartier texture. Puffed wheat or puffed rice cereals could also work, giving a lighter, airier result. Consider the flavor profile of the cereal you choose. Something neutral is best, so the pumpkin spice flavor really shines through. Just be mindful that different cereals absorb the marshmallow mixture differently, so you might need to adjust the amount of cereal you use.
How do I make my Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats extra festive?
Let’s get this party started! Sprinkles, my friend, sprinkles are your best friend. Orange, brown, and gold sprinkles scream autumn. You could also drizzle melted white chocolate over the top for a sophisticated touch and then dust with extra pumpkin spice. Cut them into fun shapes using cookie cutters! Think pumpkins, leaves, or even ghosts if you’re making these closer to Halloween. Get creative with the presentation; serve them on a pretty platter or wrap them individually as party favors.
What’s the best way to store Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats?
To keep these treats fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. No need to refrigerate them, as that can make them hard and less enjoyable. If you’re stacking them, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together. Ideally, they’re best enjoyed within a few days of making them. But let’s be real, they probably won’t last that long anyway. These are so delicious that everyone will eat them quickly.