Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the gooey mixture in the skillet, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, reminding me of family gatherings filled with laughter and sweetness. These Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats are not just a recipe; they are a festive twist on a classic favorite that brings joy to both young and old. Infused with the tartness of dried cranberries and the bright zing of orange, this delightful treat is not only simple to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any holiday celebration. Perfect for creating fond memories, they capture that beloved childhood essence while adding a gourmet touch. Are you ready to make a sweet connection with your loved ones? Why are these Rice Krispie Treats special? Festive Twist: These Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats elevate the classic recipe with vibrant flavors, making them perfect for holiday gatherings. Nostalgic Comfort: Enjoy the chewy and crunchy textures reminiscent of your favorite childhood snacks, bringing back sweet memories. Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time—ideal for busy schedules! Crowd-Pleasing Delight: The combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange ensures everyone will love these treats, making them a hit at any occasion. Versatile Variations: Feel free to customize with other ingredients, such as nuts or white chocolate, for a personal touch. Try pairing these treats with our delicious Orange Glazed Salmon for a fun meal! Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats Ingredients For the Base • Butter – Provides richness and helps in melting marshmallows; use margarine if preferred for a dairy-free option. • Mini Marshmallows – The key binding agent for the treats with delightful sweetness; swap for regular marshmallows if needed, adjusting the melting time accordingly. • Rice Krispies Cereal – The essential base for that classic crunch; feel free to experiment with other puffed cereals for a fun variation. For the Flavor Boost • Orange Zest – Adds a bright citrusy flavor and aroma; lemon zest can be used for a refreshing alternative. • Orange Juice – Infuses moisture, sweetness, and that festive flavor; any fruit juice works, or try flavored syrups for a different taste altogether. For the Sweetness • Dried Cranberries – Provide tartness and chewy texture, enhancing the overall experience; consider raisins or dried cherries as good substitutes. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats Step 1: Melt the Butter In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it is completely melted and bubbly, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on the butter to ensure it doesn’t brown. Once melted, this rich base will be ready for the next step in making your Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats. Step 2: Melt the Marshmallows Add 10 ounces of mini marshmallows to the melted butter, stirring continuously for about 3-4 minutes until they melt entirely and form a smooth, glossy mixture. Be patient; the marshmallows should blend seamlessly with the butter, creating a delightful sweetness that will bind your treats together. Remove the skillet from heat to prevent the marshmallows from overcooking. Step 3: Incorporate the Flavors Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of orange zest and 2 tablespoons of orange juice into the melted marshmallow mixture. Mix well for about 1-2 minutes until the flavors are fully incorporated and the mixture takes on a lovely citrus aroma. This step is crucial for infusing your Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats with that festive flavor that sets them apart from the classic version. Step 4: Combine with Rice Krispies Gently fold in 6 cups of Rice Krispies and 1 cup of dried cranberries into the orange-marshmallow mixture. Use a rubber spatula to combine everything evenly, making sure every piece of cereal and cranberry is well coated. It will take around 2-3 minutes to ensure the mixture is uniform, and you will see a delightful medley of colors and textures taking shape. Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish Coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or lightly grease it with butter to prevent sticking. Transfer the Rice Krispie mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out with a spatula. Press down firmly and evenly to create a solid layer of treats, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This is a key step to ensure your Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats hold their shape when cut. Step 6: Cool and Cut Allow the treats to cool completely in the baking dish at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes, until they are set. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles, creating individually wrapped portions of delight. The visual appeal will be inviting, and the aroma will make it hard to resist these festive treats! What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats Elevate your holiday gatherings with delightful pairings that’ll complement the fun sweetness of these treats. Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of rich hot chocolate creates a cozy vibe, balancing the tartness of the cranberries beautifully. Citrus Salad: A refreshing mix of oranges, mandarins, and mint brings a zesty brightness, enhancing the orange flavor profile. Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth and cool contrast of vanilla ice cream makes for a satisfying treat alongside warm, chewy squares. Sparkling Water: A bubbly drink can cleanse the palate, refreshing taste buds to enjoy another delightful bite of these nostalgic treats. Mixed Nuts: A handful of salty mixed nuts contrasts beautifully with the sweet marshmallow and tart cranberries, adding an enjoyable crunch. Fruit Platter: Serve a colorful platter of assorted fruits for a fresh element that will harmonize well with the sweetness of the Rice Krispie Treats. Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider adds a comforting aroma and flavor, making it a festive drink option for gatherings. Shortbread Cookies: These buttery cookies provide a delightful dunking companion, making for a sweet and crunchy experience with each bite. Make Ahead Options These Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy holiday gatherings! You can prepare the rice cereal mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps until you combine the Rice Krispies and cranberries, then transfer it to a greased baking dish and cover tightly with plastic wrap. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents them from drying out. When you’re ready to serve, let them cool to room temperature for about 30-45 minutes before cutting into squares. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy delicious, festive treats with minimal last-minute effort, allowing you to focus on creating even more sweet memories! Storage Tips for Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats Room Temperature: Store your treats in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and chewy for up to a week; however, be sure to avoid direct sunlight. Fridge: While not recommended, if necessary, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Please note that refrigeration may change the texture, making them a bit firmer. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the treats tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw at room temperature before enjoying! Reheating: If you’ve frozen your Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats, allow them to come to room temperature for the best texture. Enjoy as is, or pop them into the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up slightly. Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats Non-Stick Helper: Use a silicone spatula coated with non-stick spray to mix ingredients; it prevents the mixture from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Cool Thoroughly: Let the treats cool completely before cutting; premature slicing can result in messy, uneven squares that may crumble. Flavor Balance: Avoid adding frosting, as the natural sweetness from cranberries and orange juice is already delightful; a light dusting of powdered sugar can enhance presentation instead. Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on the classic! Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pistachios for a crunchy flavor boost. The nuts add delightful texture and richness, making each bite even more satisfying. Berry Bliss: Swap out dried cranberries for dried blueberries or cherries. This change will introduce new fruity flavors while keeping the treats chewy and delicious. Tropical Twist: Incorporate dried mango or pineapple chunks for a sunny flair. The sweetness and chewy texture will transport you to a tropical paradise in every bite. Chocolate Indulgence: Mix in a handful of white chocolate chips for added sweetness and creaminess. The creamy chocolate melts beautifully into the marshmallow mixture, making these treats irresistibly rich. Citrus Medley: Use lemon or lime zest instead of orange for a refreshing twist. This substitution brightens the flavor profile, perfect for those who enjoy a zesty kick! Spiced Wonder: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the marshmallow mixture. This extra touch introduces warm flavors that are perfect for the holiday season. Flavored Syrup Substitute: Instead of orange juice, try using flavored syrups like raspberry or passionfruit for a unique taste. This simple swap can create a whole new treat experience that surprises everyone. Marshmallow Variations: Experiment with flavored marshmallows like strawberry or chocolate chip. These flavors infuse a fun surprise element to each treat while keeping all the classic gooey goodness. Your creativity knows no bounds with these delightful adaptations! If you’re looking for more scrumptious ideas, consider pairing these treats with our lovely Golden Graham Smores Treats or a classic White Chocolate Cranberry Clusters for an extra festive spread! Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats Recipe FAQs What type of dried cranberries should I use? You can use regular dried cranberries, but I recommend looking for sweetened versions for a tastier treat. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using a fruit blend with blueberries or cherries for added flavor! How should I store my Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats? Store your treats in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay fresh for up to a week. Make sure to keep them away from direct sunlight to maintain their chewy texture and vibrant flavors. Can I freeze the Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow them to thaw at room temperature for the best texture. What should I do if my treats are too sticky? If your treats are too sticky, it may be due to the marshmallows melting too long or not enough Rice Krispies being added. To fix this, gently mix in a little extra cereal, about 1/2 to 1 cup, until the mixture is a more manageable consistency. Can I make these treats dairy-free? Yes! Simply substitute the butter with margarine or a dairy-free butter alternative. This way, you’ll still enjoy that rich buttery flavor without any dairy. You can also confirm that your marshmallows are dairy-free, as some brands contain traces of milk. Do these treats contain any allergens? These Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats are nut-free; however, they do contain marshmallows and may include traces of gluten depending on the brand of Rice Krispies used. Always read labels carefully, especially if serving to someone with allergies! Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats for Festive Fun These Cranberry Orange Rice Krispie Treats are a festive twist on a classic favorite, perfect for holiday gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsCooling Time 45 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 12 piecesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base3 tablespoons Butter Use margarine for a dairy-free option.10 ounces Mini Marshmallows Regular marshmallows can be used.6 cups Rice Krispies Cereal Other puffed cereals can be experimented with.For the Flavor Boost1/4 teaspoon Orange Zest Can swap with lemon zest.2 tablespoons Orange Juice Any fruit juice can work.For the Sweetness1 cup Dried Cranberries Raisins or dried cherries are good substitutes. Equipment Large skilletrubber spatula9x13-inch baking dish Method Step-by-Step InstructionsMelt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in a skillet, stirring until melted and bubbly (2-3 minutes).Add 10 ounces of mini marshmallows and stir continuously for about 3-4 minutes until melted and smooth.Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of orange zest and 2 tablespoons of orange juice until fully incorporated for 1-2 minutes.Gently fold in 6 cups of Rice Krispies and 1 cup of dried cranberries, mixing evenly for 2-3 minutes.Coat a 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray, transfer the mixture, and press down evenly for 1-2 minutes.Allow the treats to cool completely for about 30-45 minutes before cutting into squares or rectangles. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 1gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 50mgSugar: 12gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 0.3mg NotesUse a silicone spatula coated with non-stick spray to mix ingredients for easy cleanup. Let treats cool completely before cutting to avoid crumbling. A dusting of powdered sugar can improve presentation. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
