These Protein Rice Krispie Treats are a fun and tasty snack! Made with crispy rice cereal and packed with protein, they’re not just sweet but also a little healthier.
I love making these treats when I need a quick pickup! They’re super easy—just mix, melt, and cool. Plus, they vanish quickly at parties. Who doesn’t love a sweet munch that gives you a boost? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crispy Rice Cereal: This is the backbone of your treats. If you’re out or prefer something a bit different, you could use cornflakes or any puffed grain cereal. They won’t have the same exact taste but will still give that fun crunch!
Mini Marshmallows: These provide the sweetness and chewy texture. If you can’t find them, regular marshmallows can work; just chop them up into smaller pieces! Or, try marshmallow fluff for a different but still delightful effect.
Unsalted Butter: This adds richness. You could substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version or vegan butter if you’re avoiding lactose.
Vanilla Protein Powder: This is key for protein boost! If you don’t have any, you can skip it or use oat flour or almond flour instead, but it will change the texture slightly.
White and Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: While these add sweetness and fun topping, you could leave them out or use dark chocolate for a richer flavor. For a healthier twist, consider using yogurt-covered chips instead.
How Do I Get the Right Consistency When Melting Marshmallows?
Melting marshmallows can be tricky! Here’s how to do it right:
- Use low heat and be patient. If the heat is too high, they can burn or get hard.
- Stir continuously to ensure an even melting. This keeps them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- As soon as they’re melted and smooth, remove them from the heat. This helps prevent them from hardening into a sticky mass.
- If they seem a bit thick, you can add a tiny splash of water or a bit more butter to thin them out, but go easy so you don’t have a gooey mess!
With these tips, you’ll have perfect melted marshmallows ready for your treats!
Protein Rice Krispie Treats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (for topping)
- 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for drizzling)
- Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and get ready for chilling, plus an additional 30 minutes to set in the refrigerator. In just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious batch of Protein Rice Krispie Treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Pan:
Start by greasing a 9×9 inch baking pan lightly with butter or line it with parchment paper. This will help the Rice Krispie Treats come out easily later on.
2. Melt the Butter:
In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. This is important—keep the heat low to avoid burning the butter!
3. Add the Marshmallows:
Once the butter has melted, add in the mini marshmallows. Stir continuously until they are fully melted and smooth. This may take a few minutes, so be patient!
4. Mix in Flavorings and Protein:
Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and protein powder until everything is well combined. It should be smooth and creamy.
5. Fold in the Cereal:
Now, gently fold in the crispy rice cereal. Use a spatula to mix until all the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture. Make sure to do this carefully so you don’t crush the cereal!
6. Transfer to the Pan:
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking pan. Using a buttered spatula or a piece of wax paper, press the mixture evenly and firmly into the pan. This helps them hold together.
7. Prepare the White Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in 15-second increments, stirring after each until smooth and melted. Be careful not to overheat!
8. Top with White Chocolate:
Spread the melted white chocolate evenly over the top of the Rice Krispie treats.
9. Drizzle with Semi-Sweet Chocolate:
Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in the same manner as the white chocolate. Once smooth, drizzle it over the white chocolate layer to create a pretty design.
10. Add Sprinkles:
If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle some colorful sprinkles on top for extra fun!
11. Let Them Set:
Let the treats set at room temperature, or pop them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes until firm.
12. Cut and Enjoy:
Once set, cut the treats into squares. Enjoy your tasty, protein-packed Rice Krispie Treats with friends or all by yourself!
Can I Use Other Types of Cereal in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you want to switch things up, you can use cornflakes, puffed rice, or any other crunchy cereal. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture might vary slightly!
How Should I Store Leftover Rice Krispie Treats?
Store leftover treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they start to harden, you can microwave them for a few seconds to soften before enjoying!
Can I Make These Treats Without Protein Powder?
Yes! While the protein powder adds nutritional value, you can simply omit it or substitute it with an equal amount of oat flour or almond flour for a different texture, but keep in mind that they will be less protein-rich.
What If My Marshmallows Are Sticking Together?
If your marshmallows are clumping, try sprinkling a little cornstarch over them before melting. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a few seconds to soften and then stir thoroughly to break apart the clumps!
