Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

If you love the cozy, comforting flavors of fall and crave a nostalgic treat with a twist, these Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats are about to become your new obsession. Loaded with warm pumpkin pie spice-infused marshmallow goodness, a hint of creamy vanilla pudding, and a luscious white chocolate drizzle, these treats elevate the classic Rice Krispie snack into something totally irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or just want a fun way to celebrate pumpkin season, this recipe brings together simplicity and seasonal magic in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but completely essential to crafting the perfect batch of Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats. Each brings a special touch—rich butter for that melt-in-your-mouth texture, pumpkin pie spice adding warmth and depth, and vanilla pudding mix creating extra creaminess that sets these apart.

• Unsalted butter (1/4 cup): Provides the base fat for smooth melting and a rich flavor without overpowering.
• Marshmallows (10 ounces): The sticky, sweet glue that holds everything together with a chewy, soft texture.
• Vanilla instant pudding mix (3.4 ounces): Adds a subtle creaminess and helps keep the treats soft and tender longer.
• Pumpkin pie spice mix (2 teaspoons): The secret star that infuses the treats with that unmistakable fall spice blend—cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
• Rice Krispies cereal (5 cups): The crunchy cereal base that gives the treats their classic, airy snap.
• White chocolate chips (1 cup, melted): For a sweet, creamy drizzle that adds elegance and a little extra indulgence on top.
• Sprinkles: Fun and festive—perfect for adding a pop of color and playful crunch.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Start by lining a 9-inch square baking pan with foil or parchment paper. Grease it lightly with butter—using your butter wrapper is a handy trick—and set it aside. This step ensures your treats come out cleanly without sticking, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Marshmallows

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Then add in the marshmallows and stir continuously until they’re melted and smooth, reducing the heat to low to prevent scorching. This glossy marshmallow blend is the cozy heart of the recipe.

Step 3: Mix in Pudding and Pumpkin Spice

Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla instant pudding mix and pumpkin pie spice. This combo is what makes Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats so uniquely delicious—bringing in creamy texture and that signature autumn flavor all at once.

Step 4: Fold in the Cereal

Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, making sure each crisp is coated with the spiced marshmallow mixture. The cereal gives your treats the perfect balance of crunch and chewiness that everyone loves.

Step 5: Press and Set

Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press it down evenly, but not too firmly—you don’t want to compress them into dryness. This step shapes your treats and ensures every bite stays delightfully light and airy.

Step 6: Add White Chocolate and Sprinkles

Spread melted white chocolate evenly over the top, then sprinkle with colorful sprinkles quickly while the chocolate is still soft. Let it sit for about an hour to allow the chocolate to set completely, creating a beautiful, festive finish on your Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats

Garnishes

These treats are already sweet and stunning, but if you want to add a little extra flair, dust a tiny shake of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top. Chopped toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also add delightful texture and flavor contrasts.

Side Dishes

Serve Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats alongside warm apple cider or a creamy latte for the ultimate autumn snack experience. They also pair wonderfully with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you want to take dessert to another level.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider cutting these treats into fun shapes with cookie cutters—like pumpkins or leaves—for parties or seasonal gatherings. Wrapping individual squares in parchment and tying them with twine makes for a charming homemade gift presentation your friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keeping them sealed well preserves their chewy, moist quality and prevents them from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to save them longer, these treats freeze beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months while maintaining their flavorful, soft texture.

Reheating

To enjoy frozen treats, simply thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This brings back that freshly-made softness and melty white chocolate topping without losing any of the cozy pumpkin spice charm.

FAQs

Can I use a different spice blend if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

Absolutely! You can create your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a little allspice or cloves. The key is balancing these warm spices to capture that classic pumpkin pie flavor.

Is the vanilla pudding mix necessary?

The pudding mix really enhances the texture by making the treats softer and creamier. If you don’t have it on hand, you can skip it, but expect a slightly different chewiness and richness.

Can I substitute the white chocolate topping?

Of course! Dark or milk chocolate works too, depending on your preference. You could even try caramel or butterscotch chips melted and drizzled on top for a different but delicious finish.

How do I make the treats less sticky?

Pressing the mixture lightly into the pan and allowing it to set fully helps reduce stickiness. Also, greasing your hands or using a buttered spatula when pressing keeps things manageable without drying out the treats.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit?

Sure thing! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or dried cranberries add wonderful texture and flavor contrasts. Just fold them in gently with the cereal before pressing the mixture into the pan.

Final Thoughts

Making Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats is a joyful way to celebrate the tastes of the season with a beloved classic snack. I’m confident once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple at your fall festivities and beyond. So grab your ingredients, get cozy in the kitchen, and treat yourself to a batch of these irresistibly spiced, creamy, crispy delights—you won’t regret it!

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