4th of July Rice Krispie

These 4th of July Rice Krispie Treats bring a festive and fun twist to the classic chewy and crunchy bars we all love. They come together quickly with just a handful of ingredients and make a perfect patriotic dessert for summer gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a kid friendly cooking project, these treats are sure to impress and delight.

I first made these for a neighborhood potluck on the Fourth of July, and now they are a requested tradition every year. The star shaped cookie cutter really makes them feel extra special.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps bind the marshmallows choose high quality for the best flavor
• Marshmallows: The sticky sweet base that holds everything together fresh marshmallows melt more smoothly
• Rice Krispie Cereal: Provides that signature crunch use the classic variety for texture
• Red candy melts: Bright vibrant red for drizzling pick melts that melt evenly to avoid clumps
• Blue candy melts: Adds contrasting color for the patriotic theme same tips as red candy melts apply
• White chocolate: Roughly chopped to melt smoothly and add a creamy drizzle use good quality white chocolate for best taste
• Red white and blue sprinkles: Add festive crunch and color make sure they are fresh and dry
• Nonstick cooking spray: Helps prevent sticking when pressing the mixture into the dish and cutting shapes

Instructions

Step one Melt the Butter and Marshmallows:

Gently melt 1 and a half tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Add five ounces of marshmallows and stir continuously until they are completely melted and smooth. Low heat prevents burning and ensures the marshmallows become perfectly gooey.

Step two Combine Cereal with Melted Marshmallows:

Remove the saucepan from heat and pour in three cups of Rice Krispie cereal. Stir carefully until every piece is thoroughly coated with the marshmallow mixture. This step ensures your treats will hold together well and have even sweetness.

Step three Press Mixture into Prepared Dish:

Transfer the sticky mixture to a baking dish sprayed lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Use a spatula or wax paper sprayed with cooking spray to press the mixture down evenly and firmly but avoid compacting too hard so the treats stay crisp.

Step four Add Festive Sprinkles:

While the mixture is still warm but not hot sprinkle a generous amount of red white and blue sprinkles evenly over the top. Gently press them into the surface to help them stick without sinking down. This adds a colorful crunch and patriotic flair.

Step five Cool Completely before Cutting:

Allow the mixture to cool and set fully at room temperature. This step is crucial so your star shaped treats hold their shape when cut. It usually takes at least 30 minutes or more depending on room temperature.

Step six Cut out Star Shapes:

Use a star shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes from the firmed mixture. Press straight down firmly to keep clean edges. You can repress scraps to shape additional treats or enjoy as is.

Step seven Melt Candy Melts and White Chocolate:

In separate microwave safe bowls melt the red and blue candy melts as well as roughly chopped white chocolate. Microwave at fifty percent power in short increments of 30 seconds stirring well in between to avoid burning and clumping.

Step eight Drizzle Melted Colors over Stars:

Transfer melted candy melts and white chocolate to a sandwich bag with a small hole cut in a corner or use a piping bag. Drizzle the red blue and white chocolate decoratively over the star shapes creating a festive appearance. Let the drizzle set before serving.

The star cutter is my favorite part because it instantly transforms a simple treat into something festive and special. One summer at a family picnic these colorful bars were the highlight for kids and adults alike bringing out smiles all around.

Storage Tips

Store leftover treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Avoid the fridge since moisture can make them soggy. For longer storage wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container to freeze for up to one month.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find red and blue candy melts feel free to use regular white chocolate colored with food safe gel coloring or omit the drizzle entirely for simpler bars. For the cereal any plain crispy rice cereal works well but avoid flavored varieties that can clash with sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

These treats are perfect on their own or served alongside fresh fruit and cold lemonade for a classic summer dessert table. Consider pairing with simple vanilla ice cream during picnics for an extra indulgent touch.

Enjoy these festive treats with family and friends. They bring simple colorful fun to any summer gathering.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What ingredients create the crispy texture?

The combination of Rice Krispie cereal and melted marshmallows gives a crunchy yet chewy texture.

→ How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to the pan?

Greasing the baking dish and using non-stick cooking spray makes removing the bars easier.

→ What is the best way to melt the candy melts and chocolate?

Microwaving at 50% power in short intervals while stirring helps achieve smooth melting without burning.

→ How can I achieve the patriotic colors on top?

Sprinkle red, white, and blue sprinkles on the warm mixture and drizzle melted colored candy melts for vibrant accents.

→ What tools are recommended for shaping the bars?

A star-shaped cookie cutter adds a festive shape after the mixture cools and sets.