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These star-shaped Rice Krispie treats are my go-to dessert when summer holidays roll around. Using the Red and Blue Krispies gives a patriotic pop that excites both kids and adults at every Fourth of July or Memorial Day picnic. They come together in under a half hour with just three main ingredients and always disappear fast from the treat table.
I started making these when my kids wanted something red white and blue for parade days. Now every family barbecue ends with this sweet tradition and happy sticky fingers.
Ingredients
- Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Cereal with Red and Blue Krispies: This brings the star spangled look. Look for boxes labeled for holiday specials and check the crunch for freshness before buying
- European style salted butter: Salted butter adds depth of flavor and a creamy finish. Choose European style for a richer mouthfeel and flavor balance
- Marshmallows: These are the binder and what gives treats that sweet chewy pull. Use fresh marshmallows for melting power and a soft texture. Mini marshmallows melt faster and evenly
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Bowl:
- Butter the inside of a large mixing bowl or use cooking spray. Add the Rice Krispies cereal and set aside. The butter keeps the mixture from sticking and makes lifting easier
- Melt Butter:
- In a medium large saucepan set over low heat begin melting the butter. Stir occasionally so it does not brown or burn as that would affect the treat’s flavor
- Add Marshmallows:
- Once butter is mostly melted add marshmallows. Stir now and then until about three quarters melted. The low heat keeps them gooey and prevents hardening
- Finish Melting:
- Remove the pan from heat when marshmallows are mostly melted. Keep stirring and smash the marshmallows with the spatula until totally smooth and velvety
- Combine with Cereal:
- Pour the marshmallow mixture over the waiting Rice Krispies cereal. Stir gently but quickly to coat every bit for even flavor
- Shape the Stars:
- Let mix cool slightly. Butter your hands and the inside of your star shaped cookie cutter. Gently press cereal into the cutter making sure all points are filled solid for clear shapes
- Release the Treats:
- Once the cutter is full press lightly to slide the shaped treat out. Set aside and repeat until you run out of mixture
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Storage Tips
Once cooled layer the treats between parchment in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for up to four days. For parties I wrap each treat in plastic so they stay soft and are easy to grab on the go
Ingredient Substitutions
No European style butter on hand Regular salted butter works fine. Not a fan of marshmallows Try vegan versions or marshmallow fluff. You can swap the Red and Blue Krispies for the regular sort plus a dash of red and blue sprinkles if you cannot find holiday boxes
Serving Suggestions
Stack the stars on a platter or arrange them in a ring around a bowl of fresh berries. Wrap in cellophane and tie with ribbon for festive party favors or picnic treats. Let little hands dip them in white chocolate or colored candy melts for extra pizzazz
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Cultural and Holiday Context
This recipe has Fourth of July written all over it but it also shines at Memorial Day Labor Day and backyard barbecues. The red white and blue theme celebrates American summer traditions and brings a spark of color to family gatherings. Star shaped treats feel like childhood classics and nostalgia all in one
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the mixture from sticking to my hands?
Butter your hands well or use cooking spray before shaping the mixture to prevent sticking.
- → Can I use regular Rice Krispies instead of the colored ones?
Yes, you can use regular cereal, but the festive look comes from the special Red & Blue Krispies.
- → How do I get clean shapes with the cookie cutter?
Butter the inside of your cookie cutter before each use for neat, defined star edges.
- → How should I store these treats?
Place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay soft for several days.
- → Can I make these treats ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made up to two days in advance and still taste fresh and chewy.
- → Is there a substitute for European-style salted butter?
Any salted butter will work; European-style adds extra creaminess, but regular is fine too.