Let me tell you, the rich aroma of chocolate melting and blending with gooey marshmallows is enough to make my kitchen feel like a dream. The very first time I made these Double Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats, I was instantly hooked. Picture this: a rainy Saturday afternoon, craving something sweet and indulgent, and a pantry stocked with the essentials. That’s when the magic happened. I whipped up a batch of these treats, and as soon as I tasted that first bite—a perfect mix of crispy, chewy, and chocolaty—my heart skipped a beat. It was the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special.
These treats have become a staple in my home. My kids can’t resist sneaking them off the counter before they’ve even cooled, and my friends always ask for the recipe at every gathering. Honestly, they’re dangerously easy to make and provide pure, nostalgic comfort that reminds me of childhood snack time, but with an elevated twist. Whether you’re packing them into lunchboxes, serving them at birthday parties, or just treating yourself to a little indulgence, I promise, this recipe is worth bookmarking. It’s been tried, tested, and loved by all.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes—perfect for when you need a last-minute dessert for a party or a sweet fix after a long day.
- Simple Ingredients: No fancy or hard-to-find items here! You likely already have most of these ingredients in your pantry.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s kids at a birthday party or adults at a potluck, these treats never fail to impress.
- Double Chocolate Delight: The combination of melted chocolate and cocoa powder takes regular Rice Krispie treats to a whole new level.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From holiday celebrations to casual get-togethers, these treats fit the bill every time.
This recipe isn’t just good—it’s the kind that makes you close your eyes after the first bite. The chocolatey richness paired with the crispy texture is pure indulgence. You’ll feel like a kid again, relishing every bite, and the best part? You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to make them.
What Ingredients You Will Need
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a dessert that’s both nostalgic and irresistibly delicious. Most of these items are pantry staples, and I’ve included substitution tips to make sure everyone can enjoy them.
- Rice Krispies cereal: The star of the show! You’ll need about 6 cups. Any crispy rice cereal works if you don’t have the name brand.
- Mini marshmallows: You’ll need 10 ounces (around 5 cups). These are key for that gooey texture.
- Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons, melted. If you’re using salted butter, you can skip adding extra salt.
- Semisweet chocolate chips: 1 cup, melted and mixed in for that extra chocolatey goodness.
- Cocoa powder: 2 tablespoons. Choose a high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder—it makes all the difference.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon for a subtle flavor boost.
- Optional: Sprinkle with sea salt flakes for a gourmet touch, or add crushed nuts for texture.
Feel free to customize! If you need a dairy-free version, swap out the butter for coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
Equipment Needed
Making these Double Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats is a breeze, and you don’t need any fancy equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large saucepan: Perfect for melting your butter and marshmallows.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring the gooey mixture without sticking.
- Mixing bowl: To combine the Rice Krispies with the melted marshmallow mixture.
- Baking dish: A 9×13-inch pan works best for spreading and setting your treats.
- Non-stick spray or parchment paper: To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
If you don’t have a 9×13-inch pan, you can use a smaller square pan for thicker treats or a larger pan for thinner ones. And if you’re using parchment paper, press it firmly to avoid wrinkles—it’ll make cutting the treats easier later.
Preparation Method

- Start by greasing your 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter (4 tbsp / 57g) over medium heat. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows (10 oz / 283g) and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to let the mixture burn—keep stirring!
- Once the marshmallows are melted, reduce the heat to low and stir in the cocoa powder (2 tbsp / 15g) and vanilla extract (1 tsp / 5ml). Mix until fully incorporated.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the melted semisweet chocolate chips (1 cup / 175g). The mixture will become even richer and more chocolatey.
- Gradually fold in the Rice Krispies cereal (6 cups / 150g). Keep mixing until every piece of cereal is coated with the chocolate-marshmallow mixture. This step works best if you move quickly before the mixture starts to firm up.
- Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a silicone spatula or your hands (lightly greased with butter to prevent sticking) to press the mixture evenly into the pan. Be gentle—don’t press too hard, or your treats might become overly dense.
- If desired, sprinkle sea salt flakes or crushed nuts on top for added flavor and texture.
- Let the treats cool completely at room temperature for about 1-2 hours before cutting into squares.
Once set, cut into squares or rectangles and serve. They’re ready to be enjoyed!
Cooking Tips & Techniques
These tips will help you make the best Double Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats every time:
- Don’t rush the melting: Marshmallows can burn quickly, so keep the heat at medium and stir constantly to ensure a smooth, even melt.
- Work quickly: Once the marshmallows and chocolate are melted, add the cereal immediately. The mixture cools fast, making it harder to stir and press into the pan.
- Use fresh marshmallows: Stale or old marshmallows won’t melt as smoothly, which could affect the texture of your treats.
- Grease your hands: If you’re using your hands to press the mixture into the pan, rub a little butter or oil on them to prevent sticking.
- Customize your toppings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with toppings—crushed pretzels, sprinkles, or even drizzle melted white chocolate for added flair.
With these tips, you’ll get a perfect batch every single time. Trust me, after years of making these, I’ve had my fair share of sticky fingers and overly dense treats, but these tricks make all the difference!
Variations & Adaptations
One of the best parts about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap out regular Rice Krispies cereal for a certified gluten-free version if you need a gluten-free treat.
- Seasonal Twist: Add crushed peppermint candies during the holidays or mix in pastel-colored candy-coated chocolates for Easter.
- Nutty Flavor: Stir in ½ cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for extra crunch and richness.
- Peanut Butter Lovers: Melt ½ cup of peanut butter into the marshmallow mixture for a delicious flavor boost.
- Healthier Version: Use dark chocolate chips and swap marshmallows for a mixture of honey and almond butter to cut down on sugar.
I’ve even tried adding shredded coconut once, and let me tell you—it gave the treats a tropical twist that was a huge hit! Feel free to experiment and make them your own.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Serve these treats at room temperature for the best texture—they’ll be perfectly chewy and crisp. Arrange them on a pretty platter for parties, or wrap them individually in parchment paper for lunchbox snacks.
Store any leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. To enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
For reheating, you don’t really need to—these are best enjoyed as they are. However, if you want them slightly warm, microwave for 5-10 seconds per square. Just be careful not to overheat.
Nutritional Information & Benefits
Here’s an approximate breakdown for each serving (based on a 2×2-inch piece):
- Calories: 120
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 4g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 2g
With the inclusion of cocoa powder, you’re sneaking in a little antioxidant boost while enjoying a sweet treat. If you swap in dark chocolate chips, you’ll gain even more of those heart-healthy benefits. Plus, these treats are naturally gluten-free when you use the right cereal, so they’re great for those with dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
These Double Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats are the ultimate combination of nostalgia and indulgence. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and loved by everyone who tries them. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing lunchbox snacks, or just treating yourself to something sweet, this recipe is guaranteed to please.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, try out this recipe, and let me know how it turns out. I absolutely love hearing how you’ve personalized these treats or what occasions you’ve made them for. Drop a comment below, share a photo, or even pass this recipe along to your friends. Let’s spread the joy of Double Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats!
Trust me, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to favorites. There’s nothing quite like that first bite—pure bliss!
FAQs About Double Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats
Can I use regular-sized marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, you can! Just ensure you chop them into smaller pieces so they melt evenly. It might take a little longer, so keep stirring to avoid burning.
Can I add other mix-ins to the recipe?
Absolutely! You can add mini marshmallows, candy-coated chocolates, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
How can I make these treats dairy-free?
Swap out the butter for coconut oil and choose dairy-free chocolate chips. It’s a simple substitution that works perfectly!
Can I use other cereals besides Rice Krispies?
Sure! You can try other puffed cereals like Cocoa Pebbles or even a mix of cereals for a fun twist.
Are these treats suitable for freezing?
Yes, they freeze well! Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
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Double Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats
These Double Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats are the ultimate combination of nostalgia and indulgence, offering a perfect mix of crispy, chewy, and chocolaty goodness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 10 ounces mini marshmallows (around 5 cups)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: sea salt flakes or crushed nuts for topping
Instructions
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth, about 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cocoa powder and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the melted semisweet chocolate chips.
- Gradually fold in the Rice Krispies cereal. Mix until every piece of cereal is coated with the chocolate-marshmallow mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a silicone spatula or greased hands to press the mixture evenly into the pan.
- If desired, sprinkle sea salt flakes or crushed nuts on top for added flavor and texture.
- Let the treats cool completely at room temperature for about 1-2 hours before cutting into squares.
- Once set, cut into squares or rectangles and serve.
Notes
[‘Don’t rush the melting process to avoid burning the marshmallows.’, ‘Work quickly when mixing the cereal to prevent the mixture from hardening.’, ‘Use fresh marshmallows for a smoother texture.’, ‘Grease your hands to press the mixture into the pan without sticking.’, ‘Experiment with toppings like crushed pretzels, sprinkles, or melted white chocolate.’]
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2x2-inch piece
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 12
- Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Protein: 2
Keywords: Rice Krispie Treats, Chocolate Dessert, Easy Recipe, Kid-Friendly, Party Snack



