Vegan rice crispy treats offer a delicious and guilt-free way to relive a childhood favorite. These chewy, gooey, and oh-so-satisfying treats are surprisingly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. Say goodbye to marshmallows and hello to a plant-based version that’s just as good, if not better, than the original!
Gathering Your Vegan Rice Crispy Treat Essentials
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these irresistible treats:
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For the Base:
- 10 cups vegan rice cereal (like Nature’s Path or One Degree Organics)
- 1 cup vegan butter (I recommend Miyoko’s Kitchen or Melt)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup brown rice syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
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Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, cashews, or peanuts)
- 1/4 cup dried fruit (like cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Vegan rice crispy treat ingredients
Creating Vegan Rice Crispy Magic: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Prepare your station: Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment paper with vegan butter or cooking spray.
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Make the sticky syrup: In a large saucepan, combine the vegan butter, maple syrup, brown rice syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
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Gentle heat: Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth and combined.
Pro Tip: For perfectly smooth and creamy treats, avoid boiling the syrup. Patience is key!
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Pour and mix: Pour the warm syrup mixture over the rice cereal in a large mixing bowl. Gently fold the ingredients together until the cereal is evenly coated.
Mixing vegan rice crispy treat mixture -
Add your favorites (optional): This is your chance to get creative! Stir in your choice of vegan chocolate chips, chopped nuts, dried fruit, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
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Press and set: Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking pan. Using a spatula or lightly greased hands, firmly press the mixture into an even layer. Let the treats cool and set at room temperature for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
Chef’s Note: For extra chewy treats, slightly undercook the syrup mixture. For crispier treats, cook the syrup for a minute or two longer.
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Cut and serve: Once the treats are set, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Vegan rice crispy treats cut into squares
Mixing vegan rice crispy treat mixture
Vegan rice crispy treats cut into squaresVegan Rice Crispy Treats: FAQs
Q: Can I use another sweetener besides maple syrup?
A: Absolutely! Agave nectar or brown rice syrup can be used as a 1:1 replacement for maple syrup. Just remember that using different sweeteners may slightly alter the flavor and texture of your treats.
Q: How do I store my vegan rice crispy treats?
A: To keep your treats fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months; just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
Q: Can I use different types of vegan cereal?
A: While classic rice cereal works best, feel free to experiment with other puffed grains like quinoa, millet, or spelt. You can even use a combination of different cereals for a unique twist!
Q: My treats turned out too hard. What happened?
A: Overcooking the syrup mixture is a common culprit for hard rice crispy treats. Make sure to cook the syrup just until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth, then remove it from the heat immediately.
Q: Can I make these treats gluten-free?
A: Certainly! Opt for certified gluten-free rice cereal and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Enjoy a Taste of Nostalgia, the Vegan Way
These vegan rice crispy treats prove that you don’t need marshmallows or any other animal products to create a delicious and satisfying treat. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these nostalgic treats that everyone will love. So go ahead, indulge in a guilt-free treat that’s as kind to your taste buds as it is to the planet!
