Vegan rice crispy treats? You bet! This nostalgic childhood favorite gets a delicious, plant-based makeover that’s just as gooey, chewy, and satisfying as the original. Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or simply looking for a healthier twist on a classic, this recipe is for you.
What Makes These Rice Crispy Treats So Special?
Traditional rice crispy treats often rely on marshmallows that contain gelatin, an animal-derived ingredient. This recipe swaps out those marshmallows for a simple, plant-based alternative that’s just as effective at binding those crispy rice cereal squares into irresistible bars.
Vegan rice crispy treats ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ready to get started? Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these crowd-pleasing treats:
- 10 ounces vegan marshmallows (about 4 cups)
- 6 tablespoons vegan butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 6 cups crisp rice cereal
Step-by-Step Guide to Vegan Rice Crispy Treat Perfection
Let’s turn these simple ingredients into a nostalgic treat:
- Prepare your pan: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with vegan butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- Melt the butter: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the vegan butter.
- Add the marshmallows: Once the butter is completely melted, add the vegan marshmallows and stir constantly until they’re fully melted and smooth.
- Flavor it up: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Combine with cereal: Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the crisp rice cereal in a large bowl. Use a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the mixture together until the cereal is evenly coated.
- Press into the pan: Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and use a piece of parchment paper or lightly greased spatula to press it evenly into the pan.
- Cool and cut: Let the treats cool completely at room temperature, about an hour or so. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy!
Melting vegan marshmallows and butter in a pan.
Tips for the Best Vegan Rice Crispy Treats
- Don’t overheat the marshmallows: Melting over low heat and stirring constantly will prevent scorching and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
- Get creative with mix-ins: Feel free to make this recipe your own! Fold in chopped nuts, vegan chocolate chips, dried fruit, or sprinkles after mixing in the cereal.
- Storage: Store any leftover treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
“The key to perfect rice crispy treats, vegan or otherwise, is all about that marshmallowy goodness,” says renowned vegan chef, Sarah Green. “Using high-quality vegan marshmallows and taking care not to overheat them makes all the difference in achieving that perfect gooey texture.”
FAQs About Vegan Rice Crispy Treats
Can I freeze vegan rice crispy treats?
Yes! You can freeze them for up to 2 months. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What kind of vegan marshmallows should I use?
There are several great brands of vegan marshmallows available! Look for brands like Dandies, Trader Joe’s, or Freedom Mallows.
Can I use brown rice crisp cereal instead?
Absolutely! Brown rice crisp cereal works well in this recipe and adds a slightly nuttier flavor.
Variations of vegan rice crispy treats with different toppings like chocolate chips, sprinkles, and nuts.
My treats turned out too hard. What happened?
Overcooking the marshmallow mixture can make the treats hard. Next time, make sure to melt the marshmallows slowly over low heat and remove the pan from the heat as soon as they are melted and smooth.
Can I add protein powder to this recipe?
While you can experiment with adding a small amount of protein powder, it might alter the texture of the treats. Start with a tablespoon or two and see how it turns out.
Whether you’re making them for a party, a school snack, or just a sweet treat for yourself, these vegan rice crispy treats are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple swaps, you can enjoy this classic treat while staying true to your plant-based lifestyle. And who knows, you might even like them better than the original!
