Introduction to Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats

As the leaves start to turn and the air gets that crisp autumn chill, I find myself dreaming of fall flavors. One treat that always captures this seasonal magic is none other than Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats. This delightful twist on a classic is not only quick to make but also guaranteed to impress family and friends. With minimal fuss and maximum flavor, these treats are perfect for busy moms or professionals like us, looking for a sweet pick-me-up or a delicious addition to any gathering. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a fall staple!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats

One of the best parts about these Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats is their delightful simplicity. In just about 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dessert that captures the essence of fall. The perfect blend of gooey marshmallows and warm spices creates an irresistible flavor. Plus, they’re a fun, hands-on treat that little helpers can join in on, making them a family favorite for all ages!

Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats

Gathering the right ingredients is like gathering friends for a cozy gathering—it sets the mood for something special! Here’s what you’ll need for these delightful treats:

Unsalted Butter: This adds richness and helps bind everything together.
Marshmallows: The gooey star of the show that creates that classic Rice Krispie Treat texture.
Vanilla Instant Pudding Mix: A surprising twist that adds depth and creaminess to the flavor.
Pumpkin Pie Spice Mix: This is where the magic happens! It brings in that warm, inviting autumn aroma.
Rice Krispies Cereal: The crunchy base that makes these treats fun and satisfying.
White Chocolate Chips: Melting these on top adds a creamy, sweet finish that complements the pumpkin spice perfectly.
Sprinkles: Optional but highly encouraged for that festive touch! You can use any color to match your fall decor or just for fun.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider using flavored marshmallows or mixing in some nuts for added crunch. Don’t have white chocolate chips? Feel free to swap them for butterscotch or dark chocolate! Remember, these ingredients work together in perfect harmony, but you have the freedom to make this recipe your own. For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you’ll find a printable version of the recipe!

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats

Now that we’ve gathered all our ingredients, it’s time to bring the magic of Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats to life! Follow these simple steps, and feel free to get the kids involved. Cooking together can create sweet memories of its own!

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

First, we want to lay the groundwork for our treats by preparing the baking pan. Line a 9-inch square pan with foil, leaving some overhang. This will make it super easy to lift the treats out once they’re set. Then, grease the foil with a little butter to avoid any sticky mishaps!

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows

Next, grab a large pot and melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbly and fragrant, add the marshmallows. Stir constantly until they’re completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. This is when the kitchen starts to smell like a sweet dream!

Step 3: Mix in Pudding and Pumpkin Spice

Once your marshmallows are melted, it’s time to add some autumn magic. Remove the pot from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla instant pudding mix and pumpkin pie spice. The blend of these flavors intensifies and wraps everything in a cozy aroma.

Step 4: Combine with Rice Krispies

Now, fold in the Rice Krispies cereal. Use a spatula to gently combine until every single morsel is coated in that luscious marshmallow mixture. Be careful not to crush the cereal; we want that delightful crunch in every bite!

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Pan

Next, pour the sticky mixture into your prepared pan. Use your hands or a spatula to press it down gently. Don’t pack it too tightly—this ensures your treats remain chewy rather than brick-like! Let’s keep them soft and scrumptious for everyone.

Step 6: Add White Chocolate and Sprinkles

Here comes the fun part! Melt the white chocolate chips until they’re smooth, then drizzle it over the top of your treats. Use a spatula to spread the chocolate evenly. While it’s still warm, sprinkle with colorful sprinkles for that festive touch. Trust me; this step brings these Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats to a whole new level!

Step 7: Let Set and Serve

Now, all that’s left to do is let our treats set! Allow them to cool for about an hour. Once they’ve firmed up, remove them from the pan using the foil overhang. Cut them into squares and get ready for a delicious fall celebration!

Tips for Success

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the pumpkin pie spice.
Don’t rush the melting process; slow and steady gives the best texture.
For easier mixing, let the butter cool slightly before adding the marshmallows.
Use an offset spatula to spread the chocolate smoothly.
If using larger pans, adjust the ingredient amounts to maintain treat thickness.

Equipment Needed

9-inch Square Baking Pan: A must-have for shaping your treats. A 10-inch pan works too, just keep an eye on the thickness!
Large Pot: Ideal for melting butter and marshmallows. A heavy-bottomed saucepan can also do the trick.
Spatula: Perfect for mixing and spreading. A wooden spoon works great if that’s what you have!
Measuring Cups: Essential for accuracy in ingredients. You can even use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.

Variations

Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch and flavor that complements the pumpkin spice.
Choco-Pumpkin Bliss: Swap white chocolate chips for dark chocolate or butterscotch chips for a twist on sweetness.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crispy rice cereal to make these treats suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free marshmallows for a vegan version.
Chai Spice Boost: Introduce a hint of chai spice or cinnamon along with the pumpkin pie spice for a more complex flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a warm cup of apple cider for a cozy autumn treat that’s hard to resist.
Serve alongside cinnamon ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert experience.
Present on a festive platter, garnished with mini pumpkins or fall leaves for seasonal flair.
Include in a dessert table lineup with other fall favorites like pecan pie or pumpkin bread.
Package in clear bags tied with twine for delightful gifts at fall gatherings.

FAQs about Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats

Can I make Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats ahead of time?

Absolutely! These treats can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and chewy.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

If you’re out of pumpkin pie spice, no worries! You can substitute it with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a dash of ginger. It’ll still give you that lovely fall flavor!

Can I use brown rice cereal instead?

Yes, using brown rice cereal gives a nutty flavor and a slightly healthier twist. It’s a wonderful way to change things up while still enjoying that crunchy texture!

How do I store leftovers?

Keep any leftover Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container. They’ll hold up nicely for about three to four days—perfect for snacking!

Can I freeze these treats?

Definitely! You can freeze them for up to three months. Just cut into squares and wrap them tightly in foil before placing them in a freezer bag. They make a great sweet surprise for later!

Final Thoughts

Making Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats is more than just preparing a snack; it’s about creating sweet memories. As you savor each gooey, spiced bite, you can almost hear the laughter of family gatherings and the warmth of shared moments. These treats bring a touch of joy to any season, reminding us that the simplest recipes can be the most heartfelt. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and whip up a batch this fall. Your kitchen will fill with the delightful aroma of pumpkin spice, creating a cozy haven that everyone will cherish!

Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats

Author: Emily recipes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: 16 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious twist on a classic treat, Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats are perfect for fall gatherings and sweet cravings.

Ingredients

Scale

¼ cup unsalted butter
10 ounce bag marshmallows
1 box vanilla instant pudding mix (3.4 ounce)
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice mix
5 cups rice krispies cereal
1 cup white chocolate chips (melted)
sprinkles

Instructions

Line a 9-inch square baking pan with foil and grease it with butter or use parchment paper. Set aside.
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add in marshmallows and stir constantly until melted. Reduce heat to low.
Remove from heat and quickly stir in the pudding mix and pumpkin spice.
Fold in the cereal until well combined.
Pour the mixture into the buttered foil pan and press gently to pack without drying them out.
Spread the melted white chocolate over the top of the treats and immediately sprinkle with sprinkles.
Allow to set for about 1 hour, then cut and serve. Enjoy!

Notes

Make sure not to press the treats too hard into the pan to keep them soft.
Feel free to customize the sprinkles or omit them if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 treat
Calories: 180
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 90mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats, Fall Desserts, Quick Treats