1. Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate gives a deeper, richer flavor and pairs beautifully with cherries.

2. How do I prevent my hands from getting sticky when pressing the mixture?

Lightly grease your hands or spatula with butter or cooking spray before pressing the mixture into the pan.

3. Can I make these treats gluten-free or dairy-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free Rice Krispies cereal and swap butter for a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil.

4. What’s the best way to store them for a party?

Arrange them on a tray lined with parchment paper and keep them in an airtight container until ready to serve.

Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats – 5 Easy Steps for a Delicious No-Bake Dessert

Description

These Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are the perfect no-bake dessert, combining crispy Rice Krispies cereal, gooey marshmallows, sweet maraschino cherries, and a luscious chocolate drizzle. Quick and easy to make, they are ideal for holidays, birthdays, or any time you crave a sweet and crunchy snack.

Ingredients

Scale

3 tbsp butter
4 cups mini marshmallows
1 box (3 oz) Cherry Jell-O powder
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1 cup maraschino cherries (drained and chopped)
1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tbsp coconut oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional toppings: Dark chocolate drizzle, white chocolate swirls, sprinkles

Instructions

Melt Butter & Marshmallows: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add mini marshmallows and stir until smooth.
Mix in Cherry Jell-O: Stir in Cherry Jell-O powder and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Combine with Rice Krispies & Cherries: Remove from heat and gently fold in Rice Krispies cereal and chopped maraschino cherries.
Press into Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and press the mixture in evenly. Don’t press too hard to keep the treats light and chewy.
Melt & Apply Chocolate: Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Drizzle or fully coat the treats with melted chocolate.
Let Set & Cut: Allow the chocolate to harden at room temperature or refrigerate for 15 minutes. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Notes

For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet.
To prevent the mixture from sticking, lightly grease your hands or use parchment paper while pressing it into the pan.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Want an extra crunch? Add crushed nuts or freeze-dried cherries on top before the chocolate sets.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 190 kcal
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 85mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats, cherry-flavored treats, no-bake chocolate dessert, homemade Rice Krispies bars, marshmallow cereal bars, sweet and crunchy snacks, easy holiday desserts, chocolate drizzle recipes, kid-friendly treats, chocolate and cherry combination