Introduction

These Reindeer Rice Krispie Treats are a festive and fun twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for holiday parties or a playful winter snack, they combine crispy marshmallow goodness with cute candy decorations to resemble adorable reindeer.

A round rice crispy treat is cut into ten triangular slices arranged in a circle on a white marbled surface. Each slice has two chocolate pretzels placed at the wide end to look like antlers, colorful red, green, and white sprinkles on white icing near the top edge, two small candy eyes below the sprinkles, and a chocolate candy nose near the pointy end; one slice has a red candy nose instead. Around the dish are small bowls filled with red, green, and white sprinkles, a glass of milk with a striped straw, a white cloth with black tree shapes, and some scattered marshmallows. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 tablespoons margarine (divided into 4 tablespoons and 2 tablespoons)
10 ounces marshmallows (about 40 regular marshmallows or 5½ cups mini marshmallows)
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
2 ounces white almond bark
16 chocolate-covered pretzels
1 red M&M (for Rudolph’s nose)
7 brown M&M’s
16 candy eyes
Colorful sprinkles (for “hair”)

Instructions

Step 1: Use your hands to spread 2 tablespoons of margarine around a 10-inch springform pan. Optionally, place a parchment paper circle on the buttered bottom for easier removal.
Step 2: Melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of margarine in a 5 to 6-quart heavy-bottomed stock pot over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Once melted, add the marshmallows and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat promptly to avoid overcooking.
Step 4: Stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until well combined with the marshmallow mixture.
Step 5: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and gently press down until the surface is level. Let cool for 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 6: Place a large cutting board on top of the pan, flip it over, and carefully remove the sides and bottom of the springform pan.
Step 7: Cut the large circular treat into four equal triangles by halving it twice, then slice each quarter like a pie piece.
Step 8: Melt the white almond bark in a small heat-safe bowl using 30-second microwave intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
Step 9: Dab small dots of melted almond bark on the top two corners of each triangle, then press one chocolate-covered pretzel onto each dot to form antlers.
Step 10: In the center of each triangle, place two dots of almond bark and attach candy eyes on each dot.
Step 11: At the pointed end of the triangle, add a dot of almond bark and place either a brown or red M&M for the nose.
Step 12: Add a final dot of almond bark between the pretzels and sprinkle colorful sprinkles for “hair.” Allow the treats to dry completely before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use parchment paper in the pan for easier removal and cleaner edges.
Substitute pretzels with small pretzel sticks for a different antler look.
Try colored candy melts instead of white almond bark for a more vibrant design.
Mini marshmallows melt faster and more evenly than large ones, leading to a better texture.

Storage

Store the finished treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigerating, as this can make them hard. To refresh, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving if they feel firm.

How to Serve

The image shows seven triangular rice crispy treats shaped like mice, arranged on a wooden surface replaced with a white marbled texture. Each treat is light golden brown with two dark chocolate circles on the top corners as ears, covered in small chocolate sprinkles giving a rough texture. Near the center are two large white candy eyes with black pupils, and at the pointed tip of each triangle is a small round candy nose, mostly dark chocolate except for one with a red nose. The colors are warm brown and cream with contrasting dark ears and eyes. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use butter instead of margarine?

Yes, butter can be used in place of margarine for a richer flavor. Just make sure to watch the melting process closely to avoid burning.

How do I keep the Rice Krispie treats from getting too sticky?

Ensure the marshmallows are fully melted before mixing with the cereal and press the mixture firmly into the pan to create a compact texture. Allowing them to cool completely will also help maintain their crispness.