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Easy No-Bake Red White and Blue Rice Krispie Treat Bars Recipe for Patriotic Parties

no bake red white and blue rice krispie treat bars - featured image

A quick and festive no-bake dessert featuring layered red, white, and blue Rice Krispie treats, perfect for patriotic celebrations and summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal (about 180 g)
  • 4 cups mini marshmallows (about 120 g)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (45 g), softened
  • 1015 drops red food coloring (gel recommended)
  • 1015 drops blue food coloring (gel recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Line a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly. Set aside.
  2. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine 3 tablespoons softened butter and 4 cups mini marshmallows. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until melted and smooth (about 2-3 minutes).
  3. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt into the melted marshmallow mixture.
  4. Divide 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal evenly into three medium bowls. Add 10-15 drops red food coloring to one bowl and fold gently to coat. Add 10-15 drops blue food coloring to a second bowl and fold gently. Leave the third bowl plain for the white layer.
  5. Pour about one-third of the melted marshmallow mixture into each colored cereal bowl, stirring quickly to coat all pieces without crushing the cereal.
  6. Press the red mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan using a buttered spatula or wax paper. Next, gently add the white layer on top, pressing carefully to avoid mixing colors. Finally, add the blue layer, pressing firmly but gently to compact.
  7. Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes until firm. For quicker setting, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
  8. Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper edges. Cut into squares with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts. Serve and enjoy.

Notes

Use gel food coloring for vibrant colors without thinning the mixture. Work quickly when mixing marshmallow mixture with cereal as it sets fast. Butter your spatula or hands lightly before pressing layers to avoid sticking. For gluten-free or dairy-free versions, use certified gluten-free Rice Krispies, vegan marshmallows, and substitute butter with coconut oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake, Rice Krispie treats, patriotic dessert, Fourth of July, red white and blue, easy dessert, summer party, kid-friendly