Soft Crunchy Pumpkin Treats (Ready-to-Print Version)

Soft and crunchy pumpkin crispy rice cereal treats, subtly spiced and easy to prepare for fall enjoyment.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Cereal

01 - 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal (158 g)

→ Wet ingredients

02 - ½ cup unsalted butter (113 g)
03 - 13 ounces mini marshmallows (about 10 cups)
04 - ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Spices and flavorings

05 - 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
06 - Pinch of salt
07 - Orange food coloring (optional)

→ Toppings

08 - Fall or Halloween sprinkles (optional)

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Lightly spray a 9-inch by 13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Transfer the Rice Krispies cereal into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
02 - In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the mini marshmallows, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, salt, and optional orange food coloring. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
03 - Remove the saucepan from heat. Immediately add the Rice Krispies cereal to the melted marshmallow mixture and stir thoroughly until all cereal is evenly coated.
04 - Using a spatula lightly sprayed with non-stick spray, gently press the mixture into the prepared baking dish to create an even layer. Decorate with sprinkles if desired.
05 - Allow the mixture to cool completely at room temperature before cutting into squares or using cookie cutters to create shapes. Store treats in an airtight container for up to one week.

# Handy Tips:

01 - For a more authentic pumpkin spice flavor, use Jet-Puffed pumpkin spice marshmallows and reduce pumpkin pie spice to 1 teaspoon while omitting the food coloring.
02 - If pumpkin pie spice is unavailable, substitute with 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground ginger, and ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg.
03 - Gel-based food coloring is preferred for vibrant color; AmeriColor brand is recommended.