Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats

Introduction:
Celebrate the flavors of fall with these Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats! Infused with cozy pumpkin spice and a touch of real pumpkin puree, these treats offer a delightful twist on the classic Rice Krispie treat. Perfect for autumn gatherings or a sweet seasonal snack, these bars are both easy to make and irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Seasonal Delight: Embrace the taste of fall with pumpkin and spice.
• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and no baking required.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun and tasty treat that children will love.
• Customizable: Add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 package (10 oz) mini marshmallows (or 6 cups regular marshmallows)
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Pan:

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

1. Melt the Butter:

• In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.

1. Add Marshmallows:

• Add the mini marshmallows to the melted butter and stir until completely melted and smooth.

1. Incorporate Pumpkin and Spices:

• Stir in the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.

1. Mix in Cereal:

• Remove the saucepan from heat and fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.

1. Add Optional Mix-Ins:

• If using, gently fold in chocolate chips or nuts at this point.

1. Transfer to Pan:

• Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it down evenly with a spatula or your hands.

1. Cool and Cut:

• Allow the treats to cool completely before cutting into squares. This will help them set and make cutting easier.

Tips for Success:

• Pumpkin Puree: Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains additional spices and sugar.
• Marshmallows: Ensure marshmallows are completely melted to avoid any lumps in the treats.
• Pressing Down: Lightly butter your hands or use a piece of wax paper to press down the mixture into the pan to avoid sticking.

Recipe Variations:

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or milk chocolate over the top for a sweet touch.
• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
• Sweet Swirl: Mix in some caramel bits or swirl in a bit of caramel sauce before pressing into the pan.

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy these treats as an after-school snack, a party favor, or a fun fall dessert.
• Pair with a warm cup of cider or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: You can freeze these treats for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Special Equipment:

• Saucepan: For melting the butter and marshmallows.
• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish works best for this recipe.

FAQ:

• Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini?
  Yes, just cut them into smaller pieces before melting, or use them as is if you don’t mind a few lumps.
• Can I make these ahead of time?
  Absolutely! They can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container.
• Can I use pumpkin pie spice instead of a combination of spices?
  Yes, pumpkin pie spice is a great substitute for a pre-mixed blend of spices.

Preparation Time:

• 10 minutes for prep and melting the ingredients.

Cook Time:

• No baking required.

Total Time:

• 20 minutes (including cooling time).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 12 servings):

• Calories: 190
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 110mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 18g

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Closing Notes:
Have you tried these Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Share your photos on social media and tag us to show off your festive creations. Check back for more seasonal recipes and sweet treats!