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chocolate covered cherry rice krispies treat photo10 with maraschino cherries on a pink platter with Valentine decorations

Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Festive rice cereal treats studded with maraschino cherries and topped with rich chocolate – perfect for Valentine's Day or any special occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 24 squares
Calories 178 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal (or any crispy rice cereal)
  • 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ⅓ cup maraschino cherries, drained well and chopped
  • 2-3 drops red food coloring (optional)
  • 1½ cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ cup white chocolate chips for drizzling

Instructions
 

  • Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.
  • Drain and chop the maraschino cherries, then place them on paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Pat gently to dry further.
  • In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter completely.
  • Add mini marshmallows to the melted butter and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth.
  • Remove from heat and quickly stir in vanilla extract and food coloring if using.
  • Fold in the chopped cherries, distributing them evenly throughout the marshmallow mixture.
  • Add the Rice Krispies cereal and fold gently until completely coated.
  • Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan and press down gently with slightly damp hands or a piece of parchment paper.
  • For the chocolate topping, melt chocolate chips and butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Pour over the Rice Krispies treats and spread into an even layer.
  • Melt white chocolate chips in the same manner, then drizzle over the chocolate layer.
  • Allow the treats to cool completely before cutting into squares. For the cleanest cuts, refrigerate for 30 minutes after the chocolate has set at room temperature

Notes

For the most vibrant cherry flavor, choose high-quality maraschino cherries and drain them thoroughly.
Use fresh marshmallows for the perfect gooey, stretchy texture.
For easy cutting, use a plastic knife or metal knife coated with cooking spray.
For a festive variation, add a drop of almond extract along with the vanilla to enhance the cherry flavor.
Keyword cherry rice krispies, chocolate covered cherry rice krispies treats, no bake treats, valentine dessert