Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats Yum 3 bites.

Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are my go-to no-bake dessert for busy families and professionals who still crave a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing bite. As a chef who loves turning simple ingredients into confident, quick wins, I’ve learned that flavorful treats don’t have to be fussy. This recipe blends crisp Rice Krispies with gooey marshmallows, bright maraschino cherries, and a glossy chocolate finish—built for speed, sharable appeal, and days filled with activity. In just 15 minutes, you can have a pan of bite-sized, party-ready sweets that fit into school lunch boxes or post-work celebrations. No oven required—just melt, mix, and chill. Ready for easy, irresistible treats? Let’s get started.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

What makes Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats special

Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are my go-to no-bake fix when days are busy. I love how simple ingredients become a joyful, shareable bite. These treats fit a mom’s schedule or a busy professional’s calendar. No oven, no fuss, just melt, mix, and chill with a smile. I adore the bright burst from cherries and the glossy chocolate finish. It’s a tiny celebration you can share at school, work, or on date night. Plus, the no-bake routine means I reclaim time for people I love.

A warm intro to the dish that resonates with busy readers

These treats speak to women who juggle work, family, and self-care. I reach for them when time is short and smiles are needed. They’re compact, crowd-pleasing, and forgiving if a kid swaps the cherries. Share them at meetings, bake sales, or as a thoughtful school-day treat.

Quick, no-bake appeal for time-strapped cooks

If your to-do list is a mile long, this recipe helps. Melt, mix, press, chill—done in fifteen minutes, and calories don’t judge.

Ingredients Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

For Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats, having the right ingredients on hand means no-fuss, no-stress dessert magic. I keep a few pantry staples ready for quick assembly after a long day, and you can print this list for easy shopping.

What you’ll need

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 4 cups mini marshmallows
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¾ cup chopped maraschino cherries, well drained and patted dry
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted

Optional substitutions and notes: toasted coconut, chopped nuts, or dried cherries can be swapped in; dairy-free chocolate can be used; printing-friendly ingredient list available at bottom.

How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Prep for Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Line a 9×13 pan with parchment and lightly grease it.

I always line the pan and grease it.

This keeps bars from sticking and makes slicing easy.

Have cherries well drained and patted dry to avoid soggy bites.

This no-bake treat comes together fast in a busy kitchen.

Melt butter and marshmallows for Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Place butter in a large pot over low heat until melted.

Add mini marshmallows and stir until glossy and smooth.

I melt on low heat so marshmallows stay fluffy.

Remove from heat before over-mixing.

For speed, microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between.

Stir in vanilla and salt; fold in Rice Krispies and chopped cherries for Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

Gently fold in Rice Krispies until evenly coated.

I fold gently to keep the Rice Krispies crisp.

Fold in chopped cherries until distributed.

Don’t overmix to keep crunch.

Press into pan and finish Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats with chocolate

Press the mixture into the prepared pan with a greased spatula.

Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a glossy finish.

I love a glossy finish that clings to every bite.

Chill until set and slice Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Chill 20 to 30 minutes until the chocolate is firm.

Slice into squares for neat party servings.

If rushed, refrigerate 10 minutes to speed setting.

I chill it until the chocolate sets.

Tips for Success

Practical tips to get perfect bars every time

• Use parchment paper or a greased spatula to press Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats bars.
• Pat the cherries dry thoroughly to prevent soggy bites and watery chocolate.
• Drizzle chocolate while warm to achieve a glossy finish that clings.
• Chill briefly to speed setting if you’re in a rush or hosting.
• Don’t over-mix to keep Rice Krispies crisp and light.

Equipment Needed

Essential tools

• Large pot for melting on the stove (or microwave-safe bowl for quick melts)
• Spatula or greased rubber spatula for folding, scraping, and pressing
• 9×13-inch pan, parchment-lined (or silicone liner for easy, quick release)
• Sharp knife for clean slicing
• Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler for melting chocolate, whichever you prefer

Variations

Flavor and dietary twists

• I love finishing Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats with either dark chocolate or milk chocolate to vary richness.
• I add finely chopped nuts or toasted coconut for extra crunch and a toasty note.
• I swap maraschino cherries for dried cherries or chopped fresh cherries when in season for different textures.
• I make a white chocolate version with a cherry drizzle for a lighter, tangy-sweet contrast.
• I use gluten-free Rice Krispies or dairy-free chocolate to fit dietary needs without losing the vibe.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

These Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are my secret weapon on slammed days. They come together fast, require no oven, and still taste like a warm treat. I love how tart cherries pop against glossy chocolate, and how a pan disappears at parties or in lunch boxes before the bus sighs. They’re forgiving, kid-friendly, and endlessly adaptable—the kind of sweetness you can feel good about sharing.

Why this keep-it-simple treat works for you

• No bake, quick setup, kid-friendly
• Nostalgic flavor with a modern chocolate finish
• Portable for lunches, parties, and gift-giving
• Flexible with ingredients and dietary needs

Serving Suggestions

• Cut Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats into uniform bars for easy handing out.
• Serve on a platter with fresh cherries or mint, making a festive centerpiece on a pretty tray.
• Pair with coffee, tea, or dessert wine to elevate gatherings.
• Dust with a pinch of sea salt for balance.

Make-Ahead and Storage for Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

I love the freedom of making Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats ahead. When schedules spike, I bake once, slice later, and stash treats in the fridge for quick snacks. This approach keeps the cherry bits bright and the chocolate glossy.

Here are my practical tips to keep texture and flavor at their best, even when time slips away:

Make-ahead tips and storage best practices

• Assemble and store layers separately if needed
• Refrigerate for longer freshness; keep in airtight container
• Best stored at room temperature for 2–3 days; up to 1 week refrigerated
• To freeze, wrap bars tightly and place in freezer-safe container for up to 1 month
• Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture

Taste a chilled piece to check texture. A quick re-chill can revive softness if needed.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Can I freeze these treats?

Yes. These Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats freeze well when wrapped tightly. Thaw at room temperature for best texture. I often freeze them in portions for quick snacks.

Can I make them dairy-free or gluten-free?

Yes. Use dairy-free butter and dairy-free chocolate. Choose gluten-free Rice Krispies for a safe option.

Do I need to refrigerate after adding chocolate?

Not always. In a warm kitchen, refrigerate to keep chocolate glossy. If your kitchen is cool, it sets at room temperature.

Can I substitute cereals or cherries for a different flavor?

Yes. Try another crisp cereal or dried cherries for variety. Fresh cherries work in season but soften faster.

How do I cut cleanly for a party tray?

Chill until firm, then use a sharp knife. Wipe the blade between cuts for neat edges. For even squares, mark slices first, then cut.

Final Thoughts

Final takeaway

• These Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats bring together nostalgia and modern simplicity, perfect for busy days.
• I love how a simple no-bake recipe can spark smiles from kids, coworkers, and tonight’s helpers.
• Every bite feels like a small victory, a make-ahead marvel you can share without fuss.
• These treats adapt to dietary needs with dairy-free chocolate and gluten-free cereals, so everyone can join in the fun.
• Whenever I slice a tray for a party, I watch conversations bloom and the room brighten—proof that simple treats nourish more than appetite.
• Thanks for cooking with me; may your kitchen stay warm.

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