How to Make Rice Krispie squares

Ingredients You'll Need

Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
• 10 ounces marshmallows (about 40 large or 400 mini)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)

Choosing the Right Marshmallows: Fresh marshmallows are key to achieving the right texture. Stale marshmallows can result in hard or crumbly squares. Mini marshmallows melt more quickly and evenly than large ones.

Equipment Required

Ensure you have the necessary equipment ready:

• Large saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
• 9x13 inch baking pan
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper or cooking spray

Preparing the Pan: Line the baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. Alternatively, generously grease the pan with cooking spray. This will prevent the squares from sticking and make them easy to remove.

Melting the Butter and Marshmallows (Stovetop Method)

Follow these steps to melt the butter and marshmallows on the stovetop:

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows to the melted butter and stir constantly until completely melted.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract (if using).

Important Tips: Use low heat to prevent the marshmallows from burning or becoming tough. Stir continuously to ensure even melting and prevent sticking. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.

Melting the Butter and Marshmallows (Microwave Method)

For a quicker method, use the microwave:

1. In a large, microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter for about 30 seconds.
2. Add the marshmallows and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted. This usually takes 1-2 minutes total.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract (if using).

Important Tips: Keep a close eye on the marshmallows while they're microwaving to prevent them from overflowing. Stir well after each interval to ensure even melting.

Combining and Pressing

Now, let's combine the melted mixture with the Rice Krispies:

1. Pour the Rice Krispies cereal into the melted marshmallow mixture.
2. Gently fold the cereal into the marshmallow mixture until evenly coated. Be careful not to crush the cereal.
3. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan.
4. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased or dampened) to gently press the mixture evenly into the pan. Do not press too hard, or the squares will be dense and tough.

Achieving the Right Texture: The key is to gently press the mixture into the pan. Over-pressing will result in hard squares, while under-pressing can cause them to crumble.

Cooling and Cutting

Allow the Rice Krispie squares to cool completely before cutting:

1. Let the squares cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes to an hour, or until they are firm to the touch.
2. Use the parchment paper overhang (if using) to lift the squares out of the pan.
3. Cut the squares into even pieces using a sharp knife.

Tips for Clean Cuts: For neat cuts, dampen the knife blade or spray it with cooking spray before each cut.

Variations and Add-Ins

Get creative with your Rice Krispie squares by adding different flavors and textures:

• Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the squares or add chocolate chips to the mixture.
• Peanut Butter: Add peanut butter to the melted marshmallow mixture for a nutty flavor.
• Sprinkles: Sprinkle colorful sprinkles on top of the squares before they cool.
• Other Cereals: Experiment with different cereals, such as Cocoa Krispies or Fruity Pebbles.