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Easy Patriotic Rice Krispie Treats Recipe with Red White Blue Layers for 4th of July

patriotic rice krispie treats - featured image

A quick and festive recipe for layered red, white, and blue Rice Krispie treats perfect for patriotic celebrations like the Fourth of July.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups (150 g) Rice Krispies cereal
  • 10 oz (280 g) mini marshmallows
  • 3 tbsp (45 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • Red gel food coloring
  • Blue gel food coloring
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract (optional)
  • Non-stick cooking spray or extra butter for greasing

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan with non-stick spray or softened butter and set aside.
  2. Melt 1 tablespoon (15 g) butter and about 3.3 oz (90 g) mini marshmallows in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth for the red layer.
  3. Stir in 6-8 drops of red gel food coloring until vibrant.
  4. Fold in 2 cups (50 g) Rice Krispies cereal gently until coated.
  5. Press the red mixture evenly into the prepared pan using parchment paper or buttered hands. Set aside.
  6. Repeat melting 1 tablespoon (15 g) butter with 3.3 oz (90 g) marshmallows for the white layer without adding color.
  7. Stir in 2 cups (50 g) Rice Krispies cereal and press this white layer over the red layer.
  8. Melt remaining 1 tablespoon (15 g) butter with 3.3 oz (90 g) marshmallows for the blue layer.
  9. Add 6-8 drops blue gel food coloring and 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract if using.
  10. Mix in last 2 cups (50 g) Rice Krispies cereal and press gently over the white layer.
  11. Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for 15 minutes to set.
  12. Cut into squares with a sharp knife, warming the knife under hot water and drying it for neat edges.

Notes

Use gel food coloring for vibrant colors without affecting texture. Press layers gently to keep distinct stripes. Work quickly as marshmallows set fast. If mixture stiffens, microwave for 10 seconds to soften. For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free cereal. Butter can be substituted with coconut oil for dairy-free option.

Nutrition

Keywords: Rice Krispie treats, patriotic dessert, 4th of July, red white blue, easy dessert, layered treats, marshmallow treats