Ingredients

1 cup salted butter

20 oz mini marshmallows

2 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp almond extract (optional)

½ tsp salt

10 cups Rice Krispies

1 cup red and green M&Ms

½ cup red, white, and green holiday sprinkles

For the garnish:

8 oz white chocolate
½ cup red and green M&Ms
¼ cup red, white, and green holiday sprinkles

Instructions

Step 1: Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper and lightly mist it with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.

Step 2: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir continuously until the butter just begins to brown, foaming twice and releasing a nutty aroma. Remove immediately from heat to prevent burning.

Step 3: Stir in the vanilla extract carefully—the hot mixture will bubble up. Continue stirring for about 30 seconds until the bubbling subsides. Then add salt.

Step 4: Add half of the marshmallows and stir until almost melted, then add the remaining marshmallows. Stir until fully melted and smooth.

Step 5: Gradually add the Rice Krispies, about 2 cups at a time, stirring lightly to combine after each addition until all are incorporated evenly.

Step 6: Gently fold in the red and green M&Ms and the holiday sprinkles, stirring just enough to combine without melting the candies.

Step 7: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Lightly wet your hands and gently press the mixture evenly into the pan without crushing it.

Step 8: For the garnish, melt the white chocolate in a heatproof bowl in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring between each until smooth. Let it cool for 3 minutes to reach room temperature.

Step 9: Drizzle about half of the melted white chocolate over the treats. Sprinkle with the remaining M&Ms and holiday sprinkles, then drizzle the remaining white chocolate on top to secure the garnishes.

Tips & Variations

Use almond extract sparingly—it adds a lovely subtle flavor but is optional if you prefer a more classic taste.

For extra crunch, try stirring in chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds with the Rice Krispies.

If you want to avoid melting the M&Ms inside, fold them in at the very end and stir gently.

You can substitute white chocolate with dark or milk chocolate for the garnish to change the flavor profile.

Storage

Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating as it can harden the treats and affect texture.

FAQs

Can I make these treats gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure you use a gluten-free brand of Rice Krispies, as some brands may contain malt flavoring that includes gluten.