Pin this Festive, fun, and easy-to-make treats shaped like Christmas trees, perfect for holiday gatherings or family activities. These sweet, crunchy snacks are coated in green-tinted marshmallow and decorated with colorful candies.
This recipe brings out the joy of the holidays while being simple enough for the whole family to enjoy making together.
Ingredients
- Main Mixture: 4 cups Rice Krispies cereal, 3 cups mini marshmallows, 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, Green food coloring
- Decorations: 1/3 cup mini M&Ms or colored sprinkles, 12 small star-shaped candies or yellow M&Ms
- Optional: 12 pretzel sticks (for tree trunks), Nonstick cooking spray or parchment paper for shaping
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Step 2:
- Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and several drops of green food coloring until the mixture reaches your desired shade.
- Step 3:
- Add Rice Krispies cereal and quickly fold until fully coated.
- Step 4:
- Let the mixture cool for 1&2 minutes (so its not too hot to handle but still pliable).
- Step 5:
- Coat your hands with nonstick spray or lightly butter them. Shape the mixture into 12 cone-shaped trees.
- Step 6:
- If using pretzel sticks, gently insert one into the base of each tree for a trunk.
- Step 7:
- Decorate the trees with mini M&Ms or sprinkles as ornaments, and press a star-shaped candy or yellow M&M on top of each tree.
- Step 8:
- Place on parchment paper and let set at room temperature for 15&20 minutes until firm.
Pin this This recipe creates joyful moments as everyone gathers around shaping, decorating, and sharing their Christmas tree treats.
Required Tools
Large saucepan, Mixing spoon, Measuring cups and spoons, Parchment paper or nonstick spray, (Optional) Star-shaped cookie cutter for candies
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter), gluten (if using standard pretzel sticks), and soy (in some candies). Contains possible traces of nuts and gluten depending on candy brands. Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 125, Total Fat 3 g, Carbohydrates 25 g, Protein 1 g per treat
Pin this These Christmas Tree Rice Crispy Treats add a festive touch to any holiday occasion and are perfect for sharing smiles and sweet moments.
Recipe Questions
- → What cereal is used for the base?
Rice Krispies cereal provides the crispy base for these festive treats, combining well with marshmallow for texture.
- → How do you achieve the green color on the treats?
Green food coloring is added to melted marshmallows before mixing in the cereal, giving the treats a vibrant green hue.
- → Can pretzel sticks be included in the treats?
Yes, pretzel sticks are optionally inserted at the base to mimic tree trunks, adding both flavor and structure.
- → What is the best way to shape the mixture?
Coat hands with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking, then shape the mixture quickly into cone-shaped trees.
- → How long should the treats set before serving?
Allow the treats to rest at room temperature for 15–20 minutes to firm up before enjoying.