There's nothing quite as delightful as the combination of gooey marshmallows, rich caramel, and crispy Rice Krispies. These Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls are the perfect sweet treat, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors in every bite. They're a fun, no-bake dessert that’s quick to make and loved by kids and adults alike.

I first tried these at a holiday party years ago, and they instantly became a staple in my dessert repertoire. Whether it's for a festive gathering or just a cozy night at home, these treats never fail to impress. Ready to make some magic in the kitchen? Let’s dive in.

Why You'll Love This Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Recipe

Get ready to discover your new favorite dessert. These Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls are irresistibly delicious and surprisingly simple to make.

They’re perfect for any occasion. From birthday parties to holiday potlucks, these bite-sized treats are a crowd-pleaser every time. Plus, they’re easy to transport and serve, making them ideal for on-the-go celebrations.

No baking is required! With just a few ingredients and a stovetop, you can whip up a batch of these caramel wonders in no time. It’s a great recipe to make with kids, too.

The combination of textures is unbeatable. The crispy crunch of the Rice Krispies, the soft chewiness of the marshmallow, and the creamy richness of the caramel come together in every bite for a truly satisfying treat.

Best of all, you can customize them. Add sprinkles for a festive touch, mix in crushed nuts for added crunch, or drizzle with chocolate for an extra indulgent twist. The possibilities are endless.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating these delicious treats.

Rice Krispies: The foundation of the recipe, these provide the light, crispy texture that complements the gooey caramel and marshmallows. Make sure to use fresh Rice Krispies for maximum crunch.

Caramels: Store-bought soft caramels are the easiest option. Be sure to unwrap them before starting the recipe. For a richer flavor, opt for a high-quality caramel brand.

Sweetened Condensed Milk: This adds a creamy sweetness to the caramel mixture, helping it coat the Rice Krispies perfectly without hardening too quickly.

Butter: A little butter keeps the caramel mixture smooth and adds a touch of richness to the flavor.

Mini Marshmallows: These little pillows of sweetness form the gooey core of the Rice Krispie Balls. You can also use regular marshmallows cut into smaller pieces if needed.

You’ll also need a large pot for melting the caramel mixture and a bowl for assembling the balls. Wax paper or parchment paper is essential for setting the treats.

How To Make This Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Recipe

Creating these delightful treats is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for a flawless batch every time.

Begin by preparing your workspace. Lay out a sheet of wax or parchment paper on your counter for the finished balls, and have your Rice Krispies and marshmallows ready to go.

In a large pot, melt butter over low heat. Add the unwrapped caramels and stir constantly until they’re fully melted and smooth. This step requires patience, but the creamy caramel mixture is worth it.

Once the caramel is melted, stir in the sweetened condensed milk. Mix until everything is fully combined and the caramel is smooth and shiny.

Remove the pot from the heat. Working quickly, drop mini marshmallows into the caramel mixture a few at a time. Use a fork or spoon to coat each marshmallow completely with caramel.

Transfer the caramel-coated marshmallows to a bowl of Rice Krispies. Gently roll them around until they’re fully coated in the crispy cereal. Be careful – the caramel will still be warm.

Shape the coated marshmallows into small balls using your hands. Place them on the prepared wax paper to cool and set. Repeat until all the marshmallows are used.

Allow the Rice Krispie Balls to cool completely before serving. This ensures the caramel firms up enough to hold the treats together.

Storage Options

These Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later if needed.

To store, place the balls in an airtight container. Layer them with wax paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

For longer storage, you can freeze them. Place the balls in a freezer-safe container with layers of wax paper. Thaw them at room temperature for about an hour before serving.

When reheating frozen treats, avoid the microwave, as it may cause the caramel to melt unevenly. Instead, let them come to room temperature naturally.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to make it your own.

For a nutty twist, roll the caramel-coated marshmallows in chopped nuts before adding the Rice Krispies. Pecans or peanuts work especially well.

Drizzle the finished balls with melted chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence. White, milk, or dark chocolate all complement the caramel beautifully.

For a festive touch, add sprinkles or colored sugar to the Rice Krispies before rolling. This is a fun way to customize the treats for holidays or special occasions.

Want a hint of saltiness? Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel-coated marshmallows before rolling them in cereal.

If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, use dairy-free butter, caramels, and condensed coconut milk. The results will still be delicious.

With so many possibilities, you’re sure to find a variation that’s perfect for your taste. These Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls are as fun to make as they are to eat – enjoy!