Thanksgiving Rice Krispie Treat

Featured in: Sweet Treats

Enjoy festive squares bursting with cozy autumn flavors like cinnamon, pumpkin spice, and white chocolate. Chewy Rice Krispies are folded with buttery marshmallows and warm spices, then topped with cranberries, pecans, and colorful sprinkles. Preparation is simple: melt, mix, press, drizzle, and decorate. Cool, cut, and share these sweet treats at Thanksgiving gatherings or seasonal parties. Possible tweaks include swapping chocolate varieties or omitting nuts for dietary needs. Store airtight for freshness; savor each bite as the perfect blend of crunch and holiday charm.

Updated on Mon, 27 Oct 2025 15:56:00 GMT
Festive Thanksgiving Rice Krispie Treat Dessert with white chocolate and autumn spices.  Save
Festive Thanksgiving Rice Krispie Treat Dessert with white chocolate and autumn spices. | griddleglory.com

A festive twist on classic Rice Krispie treats featuring cozy autumn flavors like cinnamon pumpkin spice and a drizzle of white chocolate perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings.

I first made these Thanksgiving Rice Krispie treats for a family potluck and everyone loved the unique autumn flavors combined with traditional marshmallowy sweetness.

Ingredients

  • Rice Krispies cereal: 6 cups
  • Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons
  • Mini marshmallows: 1 bag (10 oz / 285 g)
  • Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
  • Pumpkin pie spice: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Vanilla extract: 1/2 teaspoon
  • White chocolate chips: 1/2 cup
  • Dried cranberries (optional): 2 tablespoons
  • Chopped pecans (optional): 2 tablespoons
  • Festive autumn sprinkles (optional): as desired

Instructions

Prepare the pan:
Line a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Melt marshmallows:
In a large pot melt the butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows stirring frequently until melted and smooth.
Add flavors:
Stir in the cinnamon pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Mix cereal:
Remove the pot from heat. Add the Rice Krispies cereal and quickly fold until the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
Press into pan:
Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan using a buttered spatula or wax paper.
Melt white chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl melt the white chocolate chips in 20-second intervals stirring until smooth.
Add toppings:
Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the treats. Sprinkle with dried cranberries chopped pecans and festive sprinkles if using.
Cool and serve:
Let cool for at least 30 minutes then cut into 16 squares and serve.
Deliciously cozy Rice Krispie Treats featuring pumpkin spice and crunchy pecans.  Save
Deliciously cozy Rice Krispie Treats featuring pumpkin spice and crunchy pecans. | griddleglory.com

My kids love helping decorate each square with cranberries and sprinkles turning treat-making into a Thanksgiving tradition.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these treats on a festive platter and pair with mugs of hot cider for an effortless holiday dessert table.

Storage Tips

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep your treats soft and chewy.

Variations

Swap white chocolate for dark chocolate and use sunflower seeds instead of pecans for a nut-free version.

Colorful Thanksgiving Rice Krispie Treats topped with cranberries and a white chocolate drizzle. Save
Colorful Thanksgiving Rice Krispie Treats topped with cranberries and a white chocolate drizzle. | griddleglory.com

Bring these festive treats to your Thanksgiving gathering and enjoy their nostalgic flavor with everyone.

Cooking Questions

What makes these squares festive for Thanksgiving?

The addition of cinnamon, pumpkin spice, cranberries, pecans, and colorful sprinkles creates a seasonal flair reminiscent of autumn festivities.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate adds a richer taste and works wonderfully as an alternative for the drizzle on top.

Are these treats suitable for nut-free diets?

Yes, simply omit the pecans from the toppings. The squares remain delicious and safe for those avoiding nuts.

How can I ensure the treats stay fresh?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They're best enjoyed within three days for optimal texture and flavor.

How can I make this treat gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free Rice Krispies cereal and check labels on other ingredients for gluten content to ensure a safe result.

Thanksgiving Rice Krispie Treat

Cinnamon, pumpkin spice, and white chocolate bring festive flavor to chewy squares for autumn celebrations.

Prep duration
15 min
Cook duration
10 min
Complete duration
25 min
Created by Sarah Collins


Skill level Easy

Heritage American

Output 16 Portions

Nutrition specifications Meat-free

Components

Cereal Base

01 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
02 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 10 ounces mini marshmallows
04 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
06 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings

01 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
02 2 tablespoons dried cranberries
03 2 tablespoons chopped pecans
04 Festive autumn sprinkles

Directions

Phase 01

Prepare Baking Pan: Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the surface.

Phase 02

Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows, stirring frequently until fully melted and smooth.

Phase 03

Incorporate Spices and Flavorings: Blend in ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until evenly distributed.

Phase 04

Coat Cereal: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in Rice Krispies cereal, folding quickly to ensure each piece is coated in the marshmallow mixture.

Phase 05

Form and Flatten: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan and press evenly using a buttered spatula or wax paper.

Phase 06

Melt and Drizzle Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the top.

Phase 07

Finish with Toppings: Sprinkle dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and festive autumn sprinkles over the surface as desired.

Phase 08

Cool and Portion: Allow to cool for at least 30 minutes. Cut into 16 squares and serve.

Necessary tools

  • Large pot
  • 9x13-inch baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Sharp knife

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and seek professional healthcare advice if you're uncertain.
  • Includes dairy from butter and white chocolate.
  • Contains tree nuts if pecans are used.
  • May contain gluten if non-certified Rice Krispies cereal is used.
  • Possible trace soy in chocolate products.
  • Verify all ingredient labels for specific allergen information.

Nutritional information (per portion)

These values are provided as a general guide only and aren't intended to replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 140
  • Fats: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Proteins: 1 g