Name: Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tbsp butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free option); 10 oz mini marshmallows; 5–10 drops orange food dye; 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice (optional); 5 cups Rice Krispies cereal; Green Mike and Ike candies (for stems)

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Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats are a fun, festive, and easy fall-themed dessert. With their bright orange color, pumpkin-like shape, and candy “stems,” they’re the perfect no-bake treat for parties, school events, or family fun. These treats deliver the classic gooey, crunchy sweetness of Rice Krispie squares with a seasonal twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
No baking required, kid-friendly, and fun to make
Perfect for fall gatherings
Can be made dairy-free with coconut oil
Festive pumpkin shape that looks impressive with minimal effort
Classic Rice Krispie flavor with an optional pumpkin spice boost

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 tablespoons butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free option)
10-ounce bag mini marshmallows
Orange food dye (5–10 drops, depending on desired color)
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (optional)
5 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Green Mike and Ike candies (for stems)

Directions

Place butter or coconut oil in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for about 30 seconds, until melted.
Add marshmallows and microwave in 30-second intervals until soft and fluffy, stirring as needed.
Stir in orange food coloring until evenly distributed. Add pumpkin pie spice, if using.
Mix in Rice Krispies cereal, stirring until fully coated.
Line a baking sheet or platter with parchment paper.
Grease your hands lightly with butter or oil, then shape mixture into 2-inch balls.
Place each ball onto parchment and gently press a green Mike and Ike candy into the top to create a stem.
Allow to set at room temperature until firm, then serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 12 treats
Prep time: 15 minutes
Set time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Stem: Use green M&Ms or pretzel sticks dipped in green candy melts for stems.
Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg along with pumpkin pie spice.
Candy-Coated: Roll finished pumpkins in orange sprinkles for extra color and crunch.
Mini Pumpkins: Make smaller 1-inch pumpkins for bite-sized party treats.
Jack-O’-Lantern Faces: Use melted chocolate or black icing to pipe faces on the pumpkins.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
To keep them soft, place a piece of wax paper between layers.
Not suitable for freezing, as the texture becomes chewy.
No reheating needed—these are best enjoyed fresh.

FAQs

Do I have to use orange food coloring?

Yes, it helps achieve the pumpkin look, but you can skip it if you don’t mind a natural golden color.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, simply use coconut oil instead of butter and check that marshmallows are vegan-friendly.

How do I keep the mixture from sticking to my hands?

Lightly grease your hands with butter or oil before shaping.

Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini?

Yes, just chop them into smaller pieces and melt—about 40 large marshmallows equals a 10-ounce bag.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes, make up to 2 days ahead and store in an airtight container.

How do I get the pumpkins perfectly round?

Gently roll the mixture between greased palms and press lightly to compact them.

What can I use if I don’t have Mike and Ike candies?

Green M&Ms, jelly beans, or pretzel sticks dipped in green candy melts work too.

Can I add mix-ins?

Yes, mini chocolate chips or candy corn can be stirred in for fun variations.

Can kids help with this recipe?

Absolutely! Kids love shaping the pumpkins and adding the candy stems.

Can I make larger pumpkins?

Yes, just form bigger balls, but they may take slightly longer to firm up.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats are festive, fun, and deliciously nostalgic with a seasonal twist. They’re the perfect no-bake treat for parties, fall events, or family baking projects. With their gooey marshmallow texture, crunchy cereal, and playful pumpkin shape, these treats are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.