If you’re looking for a nostalgic treat with a gourmet twist, this Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats recipe is pure magic! The classic crispy, gooey squares get a luscious makeover with sweet maraschino cherries and a decadent layer of chocolate. Whether you’re bringing treats to a party or whipping up a batch just because, this Delicious Recipe is sure to turn heads and create instant smiles. Every bite combines the comforting crunch you know and love with pops of vibrant cherry and silky chocolate—absolute joy in dessert form!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of simple, classic ingredients for this Delicious Recipe, yet each one really earns its spot. From the cereal’s signature crunch to the cherries’ pop of color and flavor, these components come together for irresistible contrast and fun.

Rice Krispies cereal: Six cups of this light, crunchy cereal are the backbone of each bar and give the treats their characteristic snap.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps bind the marshmallows, giving these squares that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Mini marshmallows: Ten ounces create the sweet, gooey base that makes everything stick together (and irresistible).
Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon brings warmth and rounds out the marshmallow flavor—don’t skip it!
Maraschino cherries: One cup, drained and chopped, brings beautiful color, a subtle tang, and bursts of juicy sweetness to every bite.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: One and a half cups to cover or dip the treats, creating that crowd-pleasing glossy finish.
Coconut oil (optional): Stir in a tablespoon to your melted chocolate for a smoother, super-shiny coating.

How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats recipe

Step 1: Melt the Marshmallows

Grab your largest pot, place it over medium heat, and melt the butter until it’s wonderfully foamy. Toss in the mini marshmallows and stir, watching them slowly melt into a velvety cloud. Once your mixture is smooth and dreamy, stir in the vanilla extract. It smells heavenly already—like the start of something special!

Step 2: Add the Cereal and Cherries

Take the pot off the heat. Pour in the Rice Krispies cereal and those vibrant chopped maraschino cherries. Work quickly and gently, folding the mixture with a sturdy spatula until every grain is hugged by gooey marshmallow and dotted with ruby-red cherry pieces. The contrast of colors alone is worth pausing to admire!

Step 3: Shape the Treats

Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or give it a light spray of nonstick oil. Scoop in your cereal mixture while it’s still warm and, using a greased spatula (or even your hands with a bit of butter), press everything down evenly—be gentle so they stay fluffy! Let the pan cool completely so the treats set up nicely for the chocolate to come.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Microwave in short 30-second bursts, stirring between each zap, until the chocolate is silky and thoroughly melted. The coconut oil is optional but makes the chocolate smoother and gives it a lovely sheen—recommended if you want these squares to look extra polished.

Step 5: Drizzle or Dip the Treats

Once the Krispies treats are cooled and firm, you’re ready for the grand finale. Drizzle the melted chocolate back and forth over the top for a “wow” effect, or, for extra decadence, dip each square halfway into the chocolate before setting it on parchment paper to harden. Patience is key here—wait for the chocolate to set before serving (if you can resist sneaking one early!).

How to Serve Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats by adding a sprinkle of flaked sea salt on top right after drizzling the chocolate—it’s a simple trick that makes the flavors pop. You can also add extra chopped cherries or colored sprinkles for a festive touch. If you’re a fan of nuts, finely chopped pistachios look and taste gorgeous here, too.

Side Dishes

These treats are adaptable to all kinds of occasions. Pair them with a pitcher of cold milk for an after-school snack, or serve alongside hot coffee at brunch. For dessert spreads, add a platter of fresh berries or a fruit salad to balance out their sweetness and make your Delicious Recipe the highlight of the table.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the treats into classic squares, or use a heart- or flower-shaped cookie cutter for special occasions and themed parties. Skewer treat cubes on sticks and wrap individually for a grab-and-go treat or a sweet favor bag. Stack them on a cake stand for a bakery-worthy display that draws everyone in—don’t be surprised if they vanish quickly!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any uneaten treats in an airtight container at room temperature, layered with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking. They stay fresh and chewy for up to three days, making this Delicious Recipe ideal for sharing or snacking any time the craving strikes.

Freezing

Want to make these ahead? No problem! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. Stored this way, your Delicious Recipe treats can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature for a quick, no-fuss treat that tastes just as good as fresh.

Reheating

If your treats feel a touch firm after storage, pop them in the microwave for just 5-10 seconds. This brings back some of the marshmallow fluffiness and gives the chocolate a tempting “just-melted” sheen—perfect for enjoying your Delicious Recipe with maximum nostalgia!

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries are absolutely delicious, but they add a lot more moisture and can affect the texture of these treats. For best results and that classic cherry flavor, stick with maraschinos for this Delicious Recipe.

Is coconut oil necessary for the chocolate topping?

No, the coconut oil is optional! It helps make the chocolate glossier and easier to drizzle or dip, but the treats will still taste fantastic if you skip it.

How can I make this Delicious Recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, simply use plant-based butter instead of regular and double-check that your marshmallows and chocolate chips don’t contain dairy. The results are just as scrumptious and welcoming to all!

Can I add other mix-ins to the base?

Absolutely! Mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even white chocolate chunks can add extra flavor and excitement. Try not to overload the mixture to keep the classic chewy texture intact.

Why do my Rice Krispies treats get hard?

Overheating the marshmallows or pressing the mixture too firmly into the pan can make them dense and tough. Melt the marshmallows just until creamy and press gently into your dish for perfect, pillowy treats every time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a treat that feels both familiar and fresh, don’t wait to make this Delicious Recipe. Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are guaranteed to bring a little joy to your kitchen and a lot of smiles to your table. Go on—try them for yourself and share the sweet magic with those you love!