Vegan Rice Krispie Squares? Absolutely! This childhood classic is easier than ever to make plant-based, and just as delicious. Get ready for a nostalgic trip down memory lane with these chewy, gooey, and utterly irresistible treats.
Reimagine Dessert Time With Vegan Rice Krispie Treats
Traditional rice krispie treats rely on marshmallows, which often contain gelatin – an animal product. But fret not! We can achieve the same gooey texture and sweet flavor using vegan marshmallows or a simple homemade marshmallow fluff. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few pantry staples and a little bit of love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/4 cup vegan butter
- 1 bag (10 oz) vegan marshmallows (or homemade marshmallow fluff, recipe below)
- 6 cups vegan rice krispies cereal
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For Homemade Marshmallow Fluff:
- 1/2 cup aquafaba (liquid from canned chickpeas)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- Pinch of salt
Let’s Get Cooking!
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Prepare your pan. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with vegan butter or line it with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and ensure easy removal later.
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Make the marshmallow fluff (optional). If you’re opting for homemade marshmallow fluff, follow these steps:
- In a large bowl, combine aquafaba, sugar, maple syrup, cream of tartar, and salt.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on high speed for about 8-10 minutes, or until stiff peaks form. You’ll know it’s ready when you lift the beaters and the mixture forms firm, glossy peaks that hold their shape.
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Melt the butter. In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the vegan butter.
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Add marshmallows (or marshmallow fluff). Add the vegan marshmallows to the melted butter and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth. If using homemade fluff, gently fold it into the melted butter until combined.
Chef’s Tip: Be patient and stir frequently to prevent burning. Low and slow is the key to perfectly melted marshmallows!
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Stir in the goodness. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
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Combine with Rice Krispies. Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the marshmallow mixture and stir gently until all the cereal is evenly coated.
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Press into the pan. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and use a spatula or your lightly greased hands to press it down firmly and evenly.
Vegan rice krispie treats being pressed into a pan -
Cool and cut. Let the rice krispie treats cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cut them into squares and serve.
Chef’s Tip: For extra fun, use cookie cutters to create fun shapes!
Expert Tips for Perfect Vegan Rice Krispie Squares Every Time
“The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity,” says renowned vegan chef, Sarah Green. “But even with simple recipes, a few tips can elevate your treats from good to extraordinary.” Sarah recommends using high-quality vegan butter and marshmallows for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use another cereal besides Rice Krispies?
While Rice Krispies are classic, you can experiment with other vegan-friendly cereals like puffed rice, corn flakes, or even Chex cereal.
How do I store vegan rice krispies squares?
Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze these treats?
Yes! These treats freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I add other ingredients to my rice krispie treats?
Absolutely! Get creative! You can add vegan chocolate chips, chopped nuts, dried fruit, sprinkles, or even a swirl of peanut butter.
What can I use instead of vegan marshmallows?
You can make a simple marshmallow fluff using aquafaba (chickpea liquid). The recipe is included in the ingredients list above.
A Sweet Treat for Every Occasion
Vegan rice krispie treats cut into squares
These vegan rice krispie squares are more than just a dessert. They’re a reminder that indulging in a bit of nostalgia can be both delicious and cruelty-free. Enjoy them as a sweet snack, a playful dessert, or a delightful treat to share with friends and family.
