Imagine the delightful nostalgia of classic Rice Krispies treats elevated with a sweet, juicy twist and a luscious chocolate shell: that’s exactly what you get with Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats. Every bite blends the airy crunch of cereal, gooey marshmallow, tart bursts of maraschino cherry, and a decadent coat of real chocolate. It’s a playful and crowd-pleasing dessert, perfect for parties, holiday gift boxes, or simply satisfying that ever-present chocolate-cherry craving.

Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple while maximizing flavor. Each ingredient serves a purpose: crispness, richness, chewiness, or that unmistakable cherry-chocolate combo that steals the spotlight. Gather these essentials for a treat that looks and tastes like pure joy.

Rice Krispies cereal (6 cups): The ultimate crunchy base—light, airy, and the perfect backdrop for all the sweet flavors and textures.
Unsalted butter (1/4 cup): Adds richness and depth to the marshmallow mixture, making every bite extra satisfying.
Mini marshmallows (10 oz): These melt down into gooey perfection, binding everything together with a hint of vanilla sweetness.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): One small spoonful brings warmth and a rounding-out of flavors to the marshmallow mixture.
Maraschino cherries, drained and chopped (1 cup): The star twist—these bits provide chewy, juicy pops of color and a lovely tang.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 1/2 cups): For that classic “chocolate covered cherry” vibe, use quality chocolate; it should melt silky-smooth for drizzling or dipping.
Coconut oil (1 tbsp, optional): Helps give the melted chocolate a glossy sheen and makes dipping or drizzling easier.

How to Make Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Step 1: Melt the Marshmallows

Start by placing a large pot over medium heat and melting the butter until it’s just fully liquefied. Toss in your mini marshmallows, stirring regularly, and watch as they transform into a thick, glossy cloud. Stir in the vanilla extract at the end for an irresistible aroma that’ll have the whole kitchen smelling like a warm bakery.

Step 2: Add the Cereal and Cherries

Once the marshmallow mixture is completely smooth, remove the pot from the heat. Quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal and the chopped, drained maraschino cherries. Work quickly to coat every bit of cereal and cherry with that sweet, sticky marshmallow magic—it’s the secret to epic Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats!

Step 3: Shape the Treats

Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy removal. Pour in your marshmallow-cereal-cherry mix, then press gently and evenly with a greased spatula. Don’t press too hard—you want your treats to keep that signature light, chewy texture as they cool and set.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

While your treats are cooling, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil (if you’re using it) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each blast, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. The coconut oil is optional, but it gives you that flawless, bakery-style chocolate finish.

Step 5: Drizzle or Dip the Treats

Cut the set treats into squares. You can either drizzle the melted chocolate artfully over each piece for a lacy effect, or dunk each square halfway for a dramatic dipped look. Place the finished treats on a parchment-lined sheet and leave them out until the chocolate hardens completely.

Step 6: Serve

When the chocolate has set, your Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are ready to slice (if you haven’t already) and enjoy! Arrange them on a pretty platter or stack them high for snacking—either way, expect rave reviews.

How to Serve Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Garnishes

To make your treats extra festive, consider scattering a few chopped cherries or chocolate shavings over the melted chocolate before it sets. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt also adds a pleasant contrast to all the sweetness, making each Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats bite truly memorable.

Side Dishes

While these bars shine on their own, you can pair them with fresh fruit, a scoop of cherry sorbet, or even a glass of cold milk for an old-school treat tray vibe. They make a creative addition to dessert platters alongside cookies, fudge, or chocolate-dipped strawberries.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful by wrapping each square individually in wax paper and tying them with a ribbon for edible gifts. Or stack treats in decorative tins for a joyous holiday surprise. For parties, stick each bar on a popsicle stick for a portable, dunkable treat that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Seal leftover Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats in an airtight container at room temperature—they’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to four days. If your kitchen runs warm, you can refrigerate them, but be aware they may harden slightly.

Freezing

To make ahead or save for later, freeze the treats: layer squares with parchment or wax paper in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll keep for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving, and they’ll taste just as good as fresh!

Reheating

If you prefer a softer texture, you can pop a square in the microwave for about 5-10 seconds—just long enough to warm the marshmallow and chocolate a bit. Be careful not to overheat, or the chocolate may melt too much and lose its lovely finish.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries bring a different flavor and texture, but their moisture can make the treats soggy. If you want to use them, be sure to pit, chop, and dry them thoroughly with paper towels first.

Is there a way to make these treats dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the butter with your favorite vegan substitute and use dairy-free chocolate chips. Most marshmallows are already free of dairy, but check labels just to be sure.

Do I have to use coconut oil in the melted chocolate?

Coconut oil isn’t essential, but it gives the chocolate a smooth, glossy finish and makes dipping easier. If you skip it, your chocolate will still taste great, just with a slightly thicker texture.

How can I keep my treats from sticking to the pan?

Greasing your pan or using parchment paper is key! A greased spatula for pressing the mix also helps prevent sticking and makes shaping a breeze.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Of course! Chopped almonds or pecans can add crunch and complement the cherry-chocolate combo. Mini white chocolate chips or shredded coconut are fun additions too—customize to your heart’s content.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a nostalgic treat with a showstopping twist, you have to try Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats. They’re as simple as they are spectacular, guaranteed to win hearts at any gathering. Grab your mixing bowl, and let the fun begin!

Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 17 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 12 squares 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are a delightful twist on the classic treat, combining the flavors of cherries and chocolate for a sweet and crunchy snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice Krispies Treats

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1/4 cup unsalted butter
10 oz mini marshmallows
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped

Chocolate Coating

1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tbsp coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)

Instructions

Melt the Marshmallows – In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Add the Cereal and Cherries – Remove the pot from heat and quickly stir in the Rice Krispies cereal and chopped maraschino cherries. Stir until the mixture is fully combined and the cereal is evenly coated.
Shape the Treats – Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the dish and gently press it down using a greased spatula to create an even layer. Let the treats cool completely.
Melt the Chocolate – In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
Drizzle or Dip the Treats – Once the Rice Krispies treats are cooled and set, drizzle the melted chocolate over the top, or dip each square halfway into the chocolate. Place the treats on a sheet of parchment paper and allow the chocolate to harden.
Serve – Once the chocolate has set, slice the treats into squares and enjoy!

Notes

You can customize these treats by using white chocolate or dark chocolate for the coating.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American