Easy Apple Pie Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
If you’re craving a cozy, sweet snack that’s bursting with autumn flavors, these Apple Pie Rice Krispies Treats are exactly what you need. Combining crispy, crunchy cereal with gooey marshmallows and warm cinnamon-spiced apples, this recipe takes the classic Rice Krispies treat to a delightful new level. Perfect for a quick dessert, an after-school snack, or even a festive picnic, these treats offer the comforting taste of apple pie in a fun, handheld form that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: Requires just a few simple ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Comfort flavors: Combines the nostalgic taste of apple pie with the classic cereal treat everyone knows and loves.
- Kid-friendly: A fantastic way to get little ones excited about homemade snacks.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a lunchbox snack or a festive party treat, it fits right in.
- Customizable: Easy to tweak based on your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All ingredients in this Apple Pie Rice Krispies Treats recipe are straightforward, wholesome, and work together to create the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Each element has its role—whether it’s the warm cinnamon apples that bring those classic pie notes, or the marshmallows that give you that irresistible gooeyness.
- Crispy rice cereal: The crunchy base that gives the treat its iconic snap and texture.
- Marshmallows: Use regular or plant-based marshmallows for gooey, sticky binding.
- Butter (or dairy-free alternative): Adds richness and helps melt the marshmallows smoothly.
- Cinnamon-spiced apples: Fresh apples cooked with cinnamon and a little sweetener to mimic that signature apple pie flavor.
- Ground cinnamon: The warm spice that instantly transports your taste buds to apple pie bliss.
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the sweet aroma.
- Salt: A pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance flavors.
Variations for Apple Pie Rice Krispies Treats
This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to get creative and make it your own. Whether you’re adjusting for dietary preferences or simply playing with flavor additions, it’s easy to adapt.
- Add nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts mix in perfectly for extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Dairy-free version: Swap butter for coconut oil and use plant-based marshmallows to keep it vegan.
- Spiced up: Add nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for a more complex cozy spice profile.
- Extra fruity: Stir in dried cranberries or raisins for little bursts of chewy sweetness.
- Chocolate drizzle: Melt and drizzle dark chocolate on top for a decadent twist.
How to Make Apple Pie Rice Krispies Treats
Step 1: Prepare the cinnamon apples
Peel, core, and dice fresh apples into small pieces. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the apples with cinnamon and a touch of sweetener until they are soft but not mushy. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Melt the butter and marshmallows
In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add marshmallows and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning.
Step 3: Combine apples with melted marshmallows
Gently fold the cinnamon-spiced apples and vanilla extract into the marshmallow mixture, ensuring even distribution while maintaining the apples’ texture.
Step 4: Add the crispy rice cereal
Quickly stir in the crispy rice cereal, mixing gently but thoroughly until every piece is coated in the marshmallow-apple blend.
Step 5: Press into the pan
Transfer the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined baking dish. Press down evenly using a spatula or wax paper until firm and smooth on top. Let cool completely before cutting.
Step 6: Slice and serve
Once cooled, cut into squares or fun shapes for easy snacking and enjoy immediately or store for later.
Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie Rice Krispies Treats
- Use crisp apples: Choose firmer varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp so the apples keep their texture during cooking.
- Work quickly: Mix and press the cereal while the marshmallow mixture is still warm to prevent hardening before shaping.
- Non-stick tools: Use a silicone spatula and grease your hands lightly when pressing to avoid sticking.
- Don’t overcook apples: Keep the apples tender but not mushy to retain some delightful bite.
- Cool completely: Let the treats set fully at room temperature for perfect slicing without crumbling.
How to Serve Apple Pie Rice Krispies Treats
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra-special touch that makes these treats look picture-perfect.
Side Dishes
Pair these treats with a warm cup of chai tea or a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness and bring soothing comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
Use cookie cutters to create seasonal shapes like leaves or apples, and wrap individual treats in wax paper tied with ribbon for party favors or festive gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Apple Pie Rice Krispies Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy, crisp texture.
Freezing
Wrap treats individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze well for up to one month—just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
If they’ve hardened slightly, warming them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds will bring back their soft, gooey perfection.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cinnamon apples instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use pre-made cinnamon apples, but make sure to drain any excess moisture to prevent sogginess in your treats.
Are these treats gluten-free?
If you choose gluten-free rice cereal, this recipe can be gluten-free, but always check package labels to be sure.
Can I substitute marshmallows with a vegan option?
Absolutely! There are many plant-based marshmallows available that work perfectly without compromising texture or flavor.
How do I make these treats less sticky?
Lightly greasing your hands or the spatula when pressing down the mixture will help prevent sticking and make shaping easier.
Can I add other spices to this recipe?
Yes, adding nutmeg, cloves, or allspice can enhance the apple pie flavor beautifully—just adjust according to your preference.
Final Thoughts
This easy, delicious recipe for Apple Pie Rice Krispies Treats brings the warmth of autumn flavors into a crispy, gooey snack that’s perfect for any time you crave something sweet and comforting. With simple ingredients and quick steps, you’ll find yourself reaching for this treat again and again, sharing it with family and friends as your new favorite cozy delight. Give it a try—you’re going to love every bite!
