Name: Irresistible Cake Batter Rice Krispie Treats to Sweeten Celebrations
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 6 tbsp Salted Butter (Adds richness and ensures the marshmallows melt smoothly); 10 oz Marshmallows (The main sweetening agent and key to achieving gooeyness); 6 cups Crispy Rice Cereal (Provides structure and crunch); ⅔ cup Dry Cake Mix (Choose Funfetti, yellow, or white cake mix); 3 oz Rainbow Sprinkles (Adds vibrant color and fun visual appeal); 2-3 tbsp Marshmallow Creme (Optional, enhances gooeyness)

The moment I unwrapped a pack of Funfetti cake mix, I felt a surge of excitement rush through me—it’s like childhood in a box! My latest creation, these No-Bake Cake Batter Rice Krispie Treats, capture that same playful spirit, making them a beloved delight for both kids and the young at heart. This simple recipe blends gooey marshmallows with crispy rice cereal and vibrant rainbow sprinkles, creating a festive treat that’s perfect for birthdays or any joyful occasion. Plus, who wouldn’t love that you can whip these up in under 10 minutes? These treats are not only a fun and easy dessert option but also an effortless way to involve the little ones in the kitchen. Curious about how to bring a little more cheer to your snack table? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Cake Batter Rice Krispie Treats So Special?

Simplicity at its finest: With just a handful of ingredients, you can create these delightful treats in under 10 minutes. Perfect for busy families!

Whimsical flavors: Customize your treats with different cake mix flavors like Funfetti, yellow, or even chocolate for a unique twist.

Kid-friendly fun: Kids love helping in the kitchen, making this recipe ideal for family bonding and teaching baking basics.

Perfect for celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday, school event, or just because, these treats add a festive touch to any gathering.

Don’t forget to check out options for Lemon Poppy Cake or an indulgent Oreo Cheesecake Cookie for your dessert table!

Cake Batter Rice Krispie Treats Ingredients

• Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful no-bake treats!

For the Base

Crispy Rice Cereal – Provides structure and crunch; feel free to use your favorite brand.
Marshmallows (10 oz) – The main sweetening agent and key to achieving gooeyness.
Salted Butter (6 tbsp) – Adds richness and ensures the marshmallows melt smoothly.

For the Flavor

Dry Cake Mix (⅔ cup) – Choose Funfetti, yellow, or white cake mix for sweetness and flavor.

For the Fun

Rainbow Sprinkles (3 oz bottle) – Adds vibrant color and fun visual appeal; fold into the mixture and sprinkle on top.
Marshmallow Creme (2-3 tbsp, optional) – Enhances gooeyness; consider adding for extra rich texture.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cake Batter Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Melt Butter and Marshmallows
In a large saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of salted butter over low heat. Once the butter is almost melted, add a 10-ounce bag of marshmallows and, if using, 2-3 tablespoons of marshmallow crème. Stir continually for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes shiny and completely smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.

Step 2: Combine Cake Mix
Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in ⅔ cup of your chosen dry cake mix—Funfetti, yellow, or white. Mix until the cake mix is fully incorporated into the melted marshmallow blend, creating a uniform, colorful batter that emits a sweet, cake-like aroma.

Step 3: Mix Cereal and Sprinkles
In a large mixing bowl, combine 6 cups of crispy rice cereal with the cake batter mixture. Gently fold in about ½ to ¾ of a bottle (3 oz) of rainbow sprinkles, taking care to coat each crispy piece with the gooey mixture. The vibrant sprinkles should add delightful pops of color throughout.

Step 4: Form Treats
Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly. Pour the mixture into the dish, ensuring it spreads evenly. Use a spatula, coated with cooking spray, to press down firmly but gently on the mixture, creating a compact layer. Top with the leftover rainbow sprinkles for that festive finish.

Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Once they have set and are firm to the touch, cut them into squares or bars. Serve immediately for a warm, gooey experience or enjoy them at room temperature, relishing the delightful flavors of your Cake Batter Rice Krispie Treats!

Cake Batter Rice Krispie Treats: Exciting Twists

Feel free to let your imagination run wild as we explore delightful variations of these treats that will make your taste buds dance!

Chocolate Delight: Substitute chocolate cake mix for an indulgent twist that adds a rich cocoa flavor. Drizzle with melted chocolate for an even sweeter finish!
Nutty Twist: Stir in 1 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture that complements the gooey marshmallow base beautifully.
Seasonal Sprinkles: Change things up with themed sprinkles like red and green for Christmas or pastel for Easter. It’s a simple way to celebrate the season!
S’mores Style: Add crushed graham crackers and mini marshmallows to your mixture for a delightful s’mores-inspired treat that reminds you of cozy campfires.
Peanut Butter Love: Incorporate ½ cup of creamy peanut butter into the melted marshmallows for a nutty flavor infusion. It’s a tasty way to enhance this classic dessert!
Fruity Fun: For a tropical flair, mix in diced dried fruits like apricots or cranberries. It adds a chewy contrast and a pop of natural sweetness.
Crunchy Cereal: Swap out crispy rice cereal for a blend of mixed cereals to add various textures and flavors in each bite. This makes every treat unique!

Don’t forget to try out these variations while keeping an eye on your delightful creations! And if you’re in the mood for more fabulous desserts, check out my recipe for Pumpkin Cake Moist or treat yourself with a slice of Lemon Poppy Cake. Happy baking!

Expert Tips for Cake Batter Rice Krispie Treats

Low Heat Magic: Always melt marshmallows over low heat to prevent burning, which can lead to a stiff texture in your Cake Batter Rice Krispie Treats.
Perfect Timing: If using marshmallow crème, add it when marshmallows are about halfway melted. This ensures a smoother mixture without clumps.
Speedy Mixing: Work quickly when combining ingredients, as the mixture will start to harden rapidly, making it difficult to coat the cereal.
Pressing Firmly: Grease your spatula during the shaping step. This helps you press the mixture down evenly without sticking, creating perfectly shaped treats.
Storage Solution: Keep your treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and delicious, ready for any celebration!

What to Serve with Cake Batter Rice Krispie Treats

Elevate your delightful treats into a full dessert spread that captivates both the young and the young at heart.

Birthday Cake: A classic birthday cake pairs perfectly with these treats, bringing an extra layer of celebration to your gathering.
Chocolate Milk: The rich, creamy texture of chocolate milk complements the sweet, chewy nature of the Rice Krispie Treats beautifully.
Frosted Sugar Cookies: These soft cookies add a different texture and taste, making your dessert table even more appealing.
Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the treats, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream next to your Rice Krispie Treat elevates the indulgence, creating an irresistible combo.
Cupcake Selection: A variety of cupcakes will round out your dessert menu, offering colorful, sweet bites that match the spirit of your treats.
Homemade Lemonade: Refreshing lemonade cuts through the sweetness, providing a delightful balance for your taste buds.
Mini Cheesecakes: These rich desserts will impress your guests while giving a delightful contrast to the light, airy treats.
Brownie Bites: The fudginess of brownies pairs excellently with the chewy, crispy texture of the Rice Krispie Treats, creating a dessert lover’s dream!

Make Ahead Options

These Cake Batter Rice Krispie Treats are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance by following the first three steps and pressing it into the baking dish. Simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, just remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, and then cut into squares. This way, you’ll have delicious, chewy treats ready to serve at a moment’s notice, just as delightful as when fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Cake Batter Rice Krispie Treats

Room Temperature: Keep your Cake Batter Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, store them in the fridge for a maximum of 1 week. Allow to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, retaining their delightful flavor.

Reheating: If you want to enjoy them warm, place the treats on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds to soften slightly before indulging!

Cake Batter Rice Krispie Treats Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my ingredients are fresh enough?
Absolutely! Make sure to check your marshmallows; they should be soft and fluffy without any hard pieces or discolorations. Also, your cake mix should be stored properly in a cool, dry area. If it has a strange odor or lumps, it’s best to toss it.

What’s the best way to store leftover Cake Batter Rice Krispie Treats?
You can keep your treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer a firmer bite, feel free to refrigerate them for a week! Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving.

Can I freeze Cake Batter Rice Krispie Treats?
Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, just let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

What should I do if my marshmallow mixture is too hard?
If your mixture hardens before you can combine it with the cereal, don’t worry! Simply melt it again in a saucepan over low heat. Gradually stir in a splash of water or extra butter to help loosen it up.

Are these treats suitable for kids with allergies?
Great question! This recipe uses marshmallows and cake mix, which can contain common allergens like gluten, dairy, and eggs. If you’re making these for someone with allergies, I recommend checking labels or using allergen-free substitutes. You can also opt for gluten-free crispy rice cereal to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Can I use different flavors of cake mix?
Very much so! Experimenting with various cake mix flavors can create unique treats. You can try chocolate, red velvet, or vanilla cake mix for delightful variations. Add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or seasonal sprinkles to make them even more special!