As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, I can’t help but think about the memories created around the Thanksgiving table. One year, while brainstorming a unique dessert to surprise my family, I stumbled upon the idea of combining two classics: pumpkin pie and the beloved Rice Krispies Treats. The result? Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats—an easy, no-bake delight that perfectly captures the essence of fall.
Imagine biting into a chewy treat that marries the nostalgic crunch of Rice Krispies with the warm flavors of pumpkin pie spice. These treats are not only kid-friendly but also add a fun twist to your holiday spread, ensuring they will be a hit at any gathering. So, let’s elevate those simple ingredients into a festive masterpiece that everyone will be reaching for—because who says you can’t have a taste of pumpkin pie in every delightful bite?
Why Are Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats Perfect?
Delightful flavors of pumpkin pie combine with classic Rice Krispies for a nostalgic twist.
No-bake simplicity means anyone can whip these up in no time, making them a holiday favorite.
Kid-friendly and fun, these treats are sure to bring smiles to little faces at your Thanksgiving table.
Visually appealing, they resemble a beautiful pie, enhancing your dessert spread with color and style.
Crowd-pleaser by nature, they’ll have guests coming back for seconds and thirds—because who can resist such a festive snack?
Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats Ingredients
For the Crust
• Salted Butter – Provides rich flavor and helps bind the ingredients; feel free to use unsalted for less saltiness.
• Mini Marshmallows – Adds sweetness and creates a chewy texture; substitute with chopped regular marshmallows if necessary.
• Rice Krispies Cereal – Acts as the base for the treats, providing the signature crunch; absolutely no substitutes needed.
For the Filling
• Pumpkin Puree – Offers the distinct pumpkin flavor and moisture; avoid using pumpkin pie filling for the best results.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warm, spicy flavors reminiscent of pumpkin pie; use a homemade blend of spices if needed.
• Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth; feel free to adjust to taste.
• Orange Food Coloring – Used to enhance visual appeal; it’s optional but adds a festive touch.
• Cinnamon Whipped Cream (optional) – A delightful topping that enhances flavor; regular whipped cream works too.
Sweetening Elements
• Maple Syrup (optional) – Enhances sweetness and gives a hint of maple flavor; you can omit it if you prefer.
These Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but will also impress your guests with their fun, festive flair!
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats
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Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter. Stir gently until melted, letting it coat the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
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Mix the Base: Whisk in the maple syrup (1 teaspoon) to add sweetness. Then, add 2 cups of mini marshmallows, stirring constantly until they become gooey and completely melted.
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Combine with Cereal: Fold in 2.5 cups of Rice Krispies cereal until they are fully coated in the marshmallow mixture. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of a greased pie dish to form a solid crust.
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Prepare the Filling: In another saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of salted butter. Then, whisk in the spices—½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, ¾ cup pumpkin puree, and ¼ teaspoon cinnamon—allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Add More Marshmallows: Mix in 3 cups of mini marshmallows and stir until thoroughly melted. If you’re using orange food coloring, add a few drops now to achieve your desired vibrancy.
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Fold in Cereal Again: Gently fold in 4 cups of Rice Krispies until evenly coated. This will create your delightful filling.
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Combine Layers: Pour the delicious filling mixture into the center of the crust you prepared earlier, pressing it down gently to meld the layers together.
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Chill & Serve: Allow your delicious creation to cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes and then refrigerate it for a firmer texture. Optional: top slices with cinnamon whipped cream for an extra tasty treat!
Optional: Drizzle with caramel sauce for an unexpected flavor twist.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the base (crust and filling) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the crust as instructed and let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain its firmness. You can also melt the filling ingredients, combine them with the Rice Krispies, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, layer the filling into the crust, let it set for about 10 minutes, and refrigerate again for a firmer texture. This way, you’ll achieve delicious, crowd-pleasing Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats with minimal effort on the day of your gathering!
Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine while making these delightful treats!
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Nutty Addition: Stir in 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a lovely crunch and extra flavor.
Add nuts for a wholesome boost; they complement the pumpkin perfectly. -
Chocolate Twist: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips for a rich contrast to the pumpkin flavors.
Chocolate lovers will adore this sweet surprise! -
Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free Rice Krispies for a treat that everyone can enjoy.
It’s an effortless way to make sure everyone at your gathering can indulge. -
Cinnamon Swirl: Layer in a cinnamon-sugar mixture before setting the filling for a delightful surprise.
That extra bit of sweetness will tickle your taste buds! -
Vegan Delight: Substitute the butter, marshmallows, and whipped cream with plant-based alternatives.
Vegan treats that taste just as good? Yes, please! -
Fruit Fusion: Add ½ cup of dried cranberries or chopped apples to introduce a tart sweetness.
These bits of fruit will brighten the overall flavor profile. -
Heat It Up: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Spicy and sweet make an thrilling combination that will leave your guests impressed! -
Maple Magic: Replace the vanilla extract with ¼ cup of maple syrup for a deeper, richer sweetness.
This adds sophistication, giving your treats a unique flair surprise!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats
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Use Pure Pumpkin: Ensure your pumpkin puree is pure; canned pumpkin pie filling contains extra sugars and spices that can affect the texture and flavor of your treats.
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Cool Properly: Allow the Rice Krispies Treats to cool completely before slicing. This helps achieve clean, neat pieces that look as great as they taste.
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Avoid Sticky Fingers: Lightly butter your hands while pressing the crust and filling into the dish. This prevents the mixture from sticking and makes handling easier.
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Marshmallow Magic: Use fresh mini marshmallows for the best texture; older marshmallows can become tough and chewy rather than light and fluffy.
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Mix It Up: Feel free to get creative; add chocolate chips or nuts for additional flavor and texture that enhances the classic Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats experience.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats?
These delightful treats are the perfect sweet addition to round out your Thanksgiving feast and are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of cinnamon whipped cream adds extra creaminess and enhances the warm pumpkin flavors beautifully.
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Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet treats, elevating the dessert experience.
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Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage perfectly complements the spices in the treats, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere for your gathering.
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Pumpkin Soup: A warm, velvety pumpkin soup as a starter adds a lovely touch and sets the tone for the pumpkin-themed meal.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For extra indulgence, serve a few classic chocolate chip cookies alongside for that chocolatey burst in every bite.
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Apple Pie: Keep the dessert table festive—apple pie compliments the flavors of fall and balances the sweetness of the Rice Krispies Treats.
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Ice Cream: Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on the side will introduce a cool, creamy contrast to the chewy, crunchy texture of the treats.
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Nutty Snack Mix: A handful of mixed nuts or a fall-themed snack mix adds a crunch that pairs well with the softer textures of your dessert.
These pairings will not only enhance your celebration but also create a memorable feast filled with a delightful medley of flavors and textures!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats
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Room Temperature: Keep your Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture.
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Fridge: For extended freshness, store the treats in the refrigerator, wrapped in plastic wrap or in a sealed container, for up to 1 week.
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Freezer: If you want to save them for later, freeze the treats in an airtight container separated by parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
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Reheating: If desired, pop the treats in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them slightly and regain some softness before serving.
Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pumpkin puree for the recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, look for cans that list “100% pure pumpkin” as the only ingredient. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor and texture of your Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats. If possible, consider making your own puree from roasted sugar pumpkins for a fresher taste!
What is the best way to store leftover treats?
For optimal storage, keep your Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, wrap them in plastic wrap or place them in a sealed container and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can enjoy them chilled or let them come to room temperature before serving.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats? How?
Definitely! To freeze your treats, cut them into squares and place a piece of parchment paper between each layer in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. If desired, you can microwave them for a few seconds to regain some softness, making them delightful once again!
What can I do if my Rice Krispies Treats are too sticky?
Very! If your treats turn out sticky, it may be because the marshmallows were not melted enough or the mixture wasn’t mixed properly. To troubleshoot, try lightly buttering your hands when handling the mixture to create a barrier. If they’re already made, you can set them in the fridge for 15 minutes to help firm them up or enjoy them as a sticky, gooey treat!
Are these treats safe for kids with allergies?
Great question! While the basic recipe is kid-friendly, be cautious with ingredients like butter and marshmallows, which may contain allergens such as dairy or gluten. Always check labels if you’re preparing treats for children with food allergies, and feel free to substitute with allergy-friendly alternatives such as dairy-free butter or vegan marshmallows.
Can I modify the recipe for a different flavor?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely play with the flavor profile. Omitting the pumpkin and spices and instead adding vanilla extract can give you a classic Rice Krispies treat. You can also incorporate mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or even dried fruit to tweak the flavors to your family’s liking!
Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies Treats that Wow Your Holiday Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter. Stir gently until melted.
- Whisk in 1 teaspoon of maple syrup to add sweetness. Then, add 2 cups of mini marshmallows, stirring constantly until they become gooey.
- Fold in 2.5 cups of Rice Krispies cereal until fully coated in the marshmallow mixture. Press this into a greased pie dish to form a crust.
- In another saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of salted butter. Whisk in ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, ¾ cup pumpkin puree, and ¼ teaspoon cinnamon.
- Mix in 3 cups of mini marshmallows and stir until thoroughly melted.
- Gently fold in 4 cups of Rice Krispies until evenly coated.
- Pour the filling mixture into the prepared crust and gently press down.
- Allow your creation to cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes and then refrigerate for a firmer texture.