I love sugary treats, and one of my all-time favorites is rice crispy treats. The combination of crunchy rice cereal and sweet marshmallows is simply irresistible. However, I always found it quite time-consuming and messy to make them on the stovetop. That’s when I stumbled upon a quick and easy method to make rice crispy treats in the microwave. And trust me, it’s a game-changer!
The Easiest Way to Make Rice Crispy Treats
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we get started, let’s assemble all the ingredients you’ll need for your delicious rice crispy treats:
Microwave-Safe Bowl and Spatula
To make your rice crispy treats in the microwave, you’ll need a large microwave-safe bowl and a spatula. Make sure the bowl is big enough to hold all the ingredients and provide ample space for mixing.
Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
Start by placing the butter in the microwave-safe bowl. Cut it into small pieces to ensure even and quick melting. Next, add the mini marshmallows to the bowl, on top of the butter. The butter helps keep the marshmallows from sticking to the bowl.
Microwave in Intervals, Stirring in Between
Now, pop the bowl into the microwave and set the timer for 30-second intervals. The key to successfully making rice crispy treats in the microwave is to stir the mixture thoroughly after each interval. This prevents the marshmallows from burning and ensures a smooth and creamy consistency.
Add Vanilla Extract
If you’d like to elevate the flavors of your rice crispy treats, this is the perfect time to add a teaspoon of vanilla extract. It adds a subtle yet delightful aroma that beautifully complements the sweetness of the marshmallows.
Stir in the Rice Cereal
Once the marshmallows and butter have melted into a gooey, velvety mixture, it’s time to add the star ingredient – the rice cereal. Take the bowl out of the microwave and pour the cereal into the mixture. Using a spatula, carefully fold in the cereal until it is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
Press Into a Pan
Now, grab a square baking pan or any other pan you prefer and grease it lightly with cooking spray or butter. Transfer the mixture from the bowl into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly and firmly press it down using the back of the spatula or your fingers. This ensures that your rice crispy treats set and hold their shape.
Let the Treats Cool and Set
Once you’ve pressed the mixture into the pan, it’s time to exercise patience. Allow the treats to cool and set at room temperature for at least an hour. If you’re in a hurry, you can speed up the process by placing the pan in the refrigerator for around 30 minutes.
Cut, Serve, and Enjoy!
Once the rice crispy treats have cooled and set, it’s time for the best part – cutting and enjoying them. Lift the treats out of the pan by grabbing onto the edges of the parchment paper or greased pan. Place them on a cutting board and slice them into your desired shapes and sizes. Whether you prefer bars, squares, or fun shapes, the choice is yours.
There you have it, a quick and easy method to make rice crispy treats in the microwave. With just a few simple ingredients and a microwave-safe bowl, you can whip up a delicious batch of these gooey delights within minutes. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, give this microwave method a try. Your taste buds will thank you!