Rice Krispie Cheesecake – A Fun, Creamy, and Crunchy Dessert Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s nostalgic, creamy, and packed with texture, Rice Krispie Cheesecake is the perfect treat. This recipe combines the classic crunch of Rice Krispies cereal with the smooth richness of cheesecake, creating a unique and crowd-pleasing dessert that will stand out at any gathering.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

  • What makes Rice Krispie Cheesecake special
  • The full step-by-step recipe (with tips for perfect results)
  • Variations to customize the flavor
  • How to store and serve it for maximum freshness

Why You’ll Love Rice Krispie Cheesecake

This dessert is like two childhood favorites in one. The Rice Krispies add a playful crunch to the crust (and sometimes the topping), while the cheesecake filling is creamy, sweet, and indulgent.

Some reasons people can’t resist it:

  1. Fun texture contrast – crunchy base, smooth filling.
  2. Easy to make – no fancy techniques required.
  3. Perfect for all ages – kids and adults both enjoy it.
  4. Customizable flavors – add chocolate, peanut butter, or fruit.

It’s also a great make-ahead dessert for parties, potlucks, or holiday celebrations.


Ingredients for Rice Krispie Cheesecake

For this recipe, you’ll need simple pantry staples. The crust is made from Rice Krispies cereal and melted marshmallows, much like the classic Rice Krispie treats, but pressed into a cheesecake pan.

For the Rice Krispie Crust:

  • 4 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 4 cups mini marshmallows

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)

Optional Topping:

  • Whipped cream
  • Melted chocolate drizzle
  • Extra Rice Krispies for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice Krispie Crust

  1. In a large pot, melt butter over low heat.
  2. Add mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
  3. Remove from heat and quickly stir in Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
  4. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even crust layer. Let it cool completely before adding the filling.

Pro tip: Use buttered fingers or wax paper to press down the mixture without sticking.


2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whip cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
  4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and fluffy.

3. Assemble the Cheesecake

  1. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled Rice Krispie crust.
  2. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.

4. Add Optional Toppings

Before serving, top with:

  • Whipped cream swirls
  • Chocolate or caramel drizzle
  • A sprinkle of extra Rice Krispies for extra crunch

Tips for the Best Rice Krispie Cheesecake

  • Press crust firmly: This prevents it from falling apart when sliced.
  • Cool before filling: Warm crust can melt the cheesecake mixture.
  • Use full-fat cream cheese: This ensures a rich and creamy texture.
  • Whip cream separately: Folding in whipped cream gives the filling its lightness.

Variations You Can Try

This recipe is highly versatile. Here are some flavor ideas:

  1. Chocolate Rice Krispie Cheesecake – Use Cocoa Krispies for a chocolatey twist.
  2. Peanut Butter Version – Add ½ cup peanut butter to the marshmallow mixture for the crust.
  3. Fruit Topped Cheesecake – Add fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries on top.
  4. Cookies & Cream – Mix crushed Oreos into the cheesecake filling.
  5. S’mores Style – Add crushed graham crackers and mini chocolate chips to the crust.

How to Store Rice Krispie Cheesecake

  • Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before serving.

When to Serve Rice Krispie Cheesecake

This dessert is perfect for:

  • Birthday parties
  • Holiday gatherings
  • Potlucks
  • Summer BBQs
  • Weekend family treats

Its no-bake nature makes it especially great for warmer months when you don’t want to turn on the oven.


Nutritional Information (Per Slice – Approximate)

  • Calories: 360
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Sugar: 28g

(Values vary depending on topping and variations.)


Final Thoughts

Rice Krispie Cheesecake is the perfect balance of childhood nostalgia and grown-up indulgence. The light, fluffy cheesecake filling paired with the chewy, crunchy cereal crust makes it a dessert that stands out from the usual cheesecake recipes.

It’s fun, easy to make, and endlessly customizable, so you can tweak it to suit any occasion or flavor preference. Whether you stick with the classic vanilla filling or get creative with flavors, you’ll have a dessert that’s both eye-catching and delicious.

So grab your Rice Krispies and cream cheese, and let’s make dessert magic!

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Rice Krispie Cheesecake – A Fun, Creamy, and Crunchy Dessert Recipe


  • Author: WAFA LI

Ingredients

• 3 cups Rice Krispie cereal • 6 tbsp butter, melted • 24 oz cream cheese, softened • 1 cup powdered sugar • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 8 oz whipped topping, thawed

FOR RICE KRISPIE TOPPING: • 2 cups Rice Krispie cereal • 3 tbsp butter • 3 tbsp marshmallow fluff


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F
  2. Mix 3 cups cereal with 3 tbsp melted butter
  3. Press into bottom of 9-inch springform pan
  4. Bake 10 minutes, cool completely
  5. Beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy
  6. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, beat well
  7. Fold in whipped topping gently
  8. Pour over crust
  9. Refrigerate 4 hours or overnight
  10. For topping: melt butter in saucepan
  11. Add marshmallow fluff, stir until smooth
  12. Remove from heat, stir in 2 cups cereal
  13. Spread over chilled cheesecake
  14. Refrigerate until serving

PREP TIME & NUTRITION: Prep Time: 25 mins, Cook Time: 10 mins, Total Time: 4 hours 35 mins, Servings: 12, Calories: 280, Net Carbs: 25g, Fats: 18g, Protein: 4g

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