There’s nothing quite as comforting as the nostalgic crunch of a classic Rice Krispie Treat—but what happens when you blend that childhood favorite with the warm, spiced essence of autumn? Enter Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats: a seasonal twist that combines buttery marshmallows, crisp rice cereal, and the beloved flavors of pumpkin pie spice for a soft, chewy, and irresistibly cozy dessert.
Perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving prep, or fall-themed bake sales, these easy-to-make treats bring the spirit of the season to your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor. In this comprehensive, SEO-optimized guide, you’ll find a step-by-step recipe, expert tips, creative variations, and everything you need to make the perfect batch of Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats that will delight kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats
Before we dive into the recipe, here’s why this fall favorite deserves a spot on your dessert table:
- Easy & Quick: Ready in under 20 minutes—no baking required.
- Kid-Friendly: Simple ingredients and fun to make with little helpers.
- Festive Fall Flavor: Infused with pumpkin spice for that cozy seasonal touch.
- No Oven Needed: Perfect for warm days or when you want a no-bake treat.
- Customizable: Add mix-ins like white chocolate, caramel, or crushed graham crackers.
- Great for Gifting: Cut into squares and package in cellophane bags with autumn ribbons.
The Legacy of Rice Krispie Treats
Rice Krispie Treats were first introduced in the 1930s by Kellogg’s as a way to promote their Rice Krispies cereal. The original recipe—butter, marshmallows, and cereal—quickly became a staple in American homes due to its simplicity and satisfying texture.
Over the decades, bakers have reimagined the classic with countless variations: chocolate, peanut butter, holiday-themed, and now, pumpkin spice. This seasonal version taps into the wildly popular pumpkin spice trend—think lattes, muffins, and pies—but delivers it in a fun, no-bake format everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe makes 12–16 treats, depending on how you cut them. All ingredients should be measured accurately for the best texture.
For the Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats:
- 6 cups (150g) Rice Krispies cereal (or generic crisp rice cereal)
- ¼ cup (56g) unsalted butter
- 1 (10 oz / 283g) bag mini marshmallows (about 6 cups)
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree (100% pure pumpkin, not pie filling)
- 1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (store-bought or homemade blend)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-Ins & Toppings:
- ½ cup white chocolate chips or chunks
- ¼ cup crushed graham crackers (for a “crust” flavor)
- Drizzle of caramel sauce
- Sprinkle of cinnamon sugar
- Mini marshmallow topping
- Edible fall sprinkles or gold dust
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make perfectly soft, spiced Rice Krispie Treats.
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Lightly grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. For easier removal, line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides.
Step 2: Melt the Base
- In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter completely.
- Add the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice, stirring to combine. Cook for 1–2 minutes to warm the pumpkin and bloom the spices.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and pinch of salt.
Step 3: Melt the Marshmallows
- Gradually add the mini marshmallows, one cup at a time, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth.
- The mixture should be glossy and stretchy—this ensures the treats will be soft and chewy.
Tip: Keep the heat low to avoid burning the marshmallows.
Step 4: Add the Cereal
- Remove the saucepan from heat.
- Immediately add the Rice Krispies cereal and gently fold with a buttered spatula or greased spoon until fully coated.
Do not overmix—this can crush the cereal and make the treats dense.
Step 5: Fold in Optional Mix-Ins
If using white chocolate chips, graham cracker crumbs, or other add-ins, gently fold them in now.
Step 6: Press into Pan
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan.
- Use a buttered spatula or piece of parchment paper to press it evenly into the pan. Smooth the top for clean slicing.
Step 7: Cool and Set
Let the treats cool at room temperature for 30–45 minutes until firm. Do not refrigerate—this can dry them out.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Use the parchment overhang to lift the slab out, then cut into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife.
Optional: Drizzle with melted white chocolate or caramel and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
Tips for Success
Follow these pro tips to ensure perfect Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats every time:
- Use Fresh Marshmallows: Stale or old marshmallows won’t melt properly.
- Low and Slow Heat: Prevents scorching and ensures even melting.
- Grease Your Tools: Spatula, spoon, and hands—this prevents sticking.
- Don’t Overmix: Keep the cereal crisp for that signature texture.
- Use Real Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture and flavor without altering texture.
- Cut with a Warm Knife: For clean edges, briefly dip the knife in hot water and wipe dry between cuts.
Creative Variations
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, try these fun twists:
1. Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats
- Add 2–3 tablespoons of crushed graham crackers to the mix and top with mini marshmallows toasted with a kitchen torch.
2. White Chocolate Pumpkin Treats
- Stir in ½ cup white chocolate chips and drizzle extra on top.
3. Caramel Pumpkin Crunch
- Swirl in ¼ cup salted caramel sauce before pressing into the pan.
4. Vegan Version
- Use plant-based butter, vegan marshmallows (like Dandies), and dairy-free chocolate.
5. Gluten-Free
- Ensure your rice cereal is labeled gluten-free (some brands may have cross-contamination).
6. Mini Pumpkin Treats
- Press mixture into a lined muffin tin for bite-sized portions—perfect for parties.
7. Spice-It-Up Version
- Add a pinch of cayenne or espresso powder for a surprising depth of flavor.
How to Store and Serve
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers for up to 3 days.
Avoid Humidity: These treats can get sticky in moist environments.
Do Not Freeze: Freezing can cause condensation and make them soggy.
Serving Ideas:
- Fall Party Favors: Wrap in cellophane with twine and a fall leaf tag.
- School Treats: Great for classroom celebrations (check for nut-free needs).
- Dessert Platter: Pair with pumpkin cookies, apple slices, and cider.
- Holiday Prep: Make ahead the day before Thanksgiving.
Nutritional Information (Per Treat, Approx. 12 Treats)
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 1g
Note: Values may vary based on brands and add-ins.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic of Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats lies in their simplicity and balance:
- Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture and subtle flavor without making the treats wet.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: Brings warmth with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
- Buttery Marshmallow Base: Creates that classic chewy texture.
- Crisp Cereal: Provides structure and crunch.
Together, they deliver a treat that’s nostalgic, seasonal, and utterly satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
A: No—pumpkin pie filling contains sugar and spices that will make the treats too sweet and alter the texture. Always use 100% pure pumpkin puree.
Q: Why are my treats too sticky?
A: Likely causes: too much butter, over-melting the marshmallows, or using old cereal. Stick to the recipe and use fresh ingredients.
Q: Can I make these without pumpkin?
A: Yes! Omit the pumpkin and increase the spice to 2 tsp. They’ll still taste like fall.
Q: Can I add nuts or chocolate?
A: Absolutely! Fold in chopped pecans, walnuts, or chocolate chips after removing from heat.
Q: Are these safe for kids?
A: Yes! This is a family-friendly recipe. Just supervise young children with the hot mixture.
Q: Can I use large marshmallows?
A: Yes—use 40 standard marshmallows instead of mini. Melt them the same way.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats are the perfect bridge between childhood nostalgia and seasonal celebration. They’re soft, slightly spiced, and packed with the cozy flavors of fall—all in a no-bake, easy-to-make format.
Whether you’re making them for a school event, a potluck, or just because you’re craving something sweet and autumnal, these treats deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to get kids involved in the kitchen.
So grab your saucepan, a bag of mini marshmallows, and that can of pumpkin—because the taste of fall just got even better.
Print
Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats: A Cozy, Fall-Inspired Twist on a Classic
Ingredients
• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal • 4 tbsp butter • 1 package (10oz) marshmallows • ½ cup pumpkin puree • 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice • ½ tsp cinnamon • ¼ tsp nutmeg • ¼ cup brown sugar • Orange food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Grease 9×13 inch baking pan
- In large saucepan, melt butter over low heat
- Add marshmallows and stir until melted
- Remove from heat and stir in pumpkin puree
- Add pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar
- Add food coloring if using
- Stir in Rice Krispies cereal
- Press mixture into prepared pan
- Let cool completely
- Cut into squares
- Store in airtight container
PREP TIME & NUTRITION: Prep Time: 15 mins, Cook Time: 10 mins, Total Time: 25 mins, Servings: 16, Calories: 120, Net Carbs: 22g, Fats: 3g, Protein: 2g