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Halloween Rice Krispie Jack-O-Lanterns: Easy No-Bake Treat

Halloween Rice Krispie Jack-O-Lanterns - featured image
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These no-bake Halloween Rice Krispie Jack-O-Lanterns are fun to make with kids, adorable to look at, and delicious to eat. Made with orange marshmallow mixture, chocolate chip faces, and pretzel stems, they come together in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 10 ounces mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon orange gel food coloring
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
  • 12–15 pretzel sticks
  • Non-stick cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Prep your workspace: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray your rubber spatula with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Melt the butter and marshmallows: Place the 4 tablespoons of butter and 10 ounces of mini marshmallows in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely smooth and fully melted (about 90 seconds total).
  3. Add the vanilla and food coloring: Stir in the 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Add the orange gel food coloring, starting with about 1/2 teaspoon. Stir vigorously until evenly distributed. Add more gel for deeper color.
  4. Mix in the cereal: Pour the 6 cups of Rice Krispies into the colored marshmallow mixture. Fold gently with the greased spatula until all cereal is evenly coated.
  5. Let it cool slightly: Spread the mixture onto the parchment-lined baking sheet in an even layer. Let sit for 2-3 minutes until cool enough to handle but still warm and pliable.
  6. Shape the pumpkins: Lightly spray hands with non-stick cooking spray. Grab about 2 tablespoons of mixture, roll into a ball, then gently flatten into a pumpkin shape. Place on parchment paper. Repeat with remaining mixture (makes 12-15 pumpkins).
  7. Add the faces: While pumpkins are still warm and soft, press mini chocolate chips into each to create a Jack-O-Lantern face (triangles for eyes, jagged smile). Press firmly.
  8. Insert the stems: Break pretzel sticks in half (or leave whole). Gently press one into the top center of each pumpkin, pushing about halfway in.
  9. Let them set: Allow pumpkins to cool completely at room temperature, about 15-20 minutes, until firm.

Notes

Use gel food coloring, not liquid, to avoid making the marshmallow mixture sticky. Work quickly as the mixture sets fast. If too sticky, spray hands with more cooking spray or dip fingers in warm water. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Do not refrigerate. Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween Rice Krispie treats, no-bake Halloween dessert, Rice Krispie pumpkins, Jack-O-Lantern treats, kid-friendly Halloween recipe, easy Halloween treat

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