1. Pumpkin rice krispie treats with marshmallows

Absolutely! Marshmallows are the heart of this treat. For best results, use mini marshmallows , which melt quicker and blend more smoothly with pumpkin puree. Combine them with butter and spices to create a warm, gooey base. Fold in the cereal gently to keep the mixture fluffy and light. You can even reserve a handful of marshmallows to stir in at the end for gooey pockets throughout the bars.

2. Chocolate pumpkin rice krispie treats

If you’re a chocolate lover, you’ll adore this variation. Simply melt dark, milk, or white chocolate and drizzle it over the top after the bars cool. You can also stir mini chocolate chips into the mix before pressing it into the pan. For a layered treat, press half the mixture into the pan, spread a layer of melted chocolate, then press the remaining mixture on top before chilling.

3. How do you make pumpkin rice krispie treats stay soft and chewy?

The secret lies in the butter-to-marshmallow ratio and cooking time. Don’t overheat the mixture — high heat can cause the marshmallows to stiffen when cooled. Also, make sure to cook off excess moisture from the pumpkin puree (pressing it between paper towels for 5–10 minutes helps a lot). Store the treats in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain softness for several days.

4. Can I make pumpkin rice krispie treats ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, these bars are a great make-ahead dessert for fall parties and holidays. Prepare them 1–2 days in advance and store them tightly sealed at room temperature or in the fridge. If making ahead by more than a few days, freeze them with parchment paper between layers. Thaw at room temp before serving for the best texture.

5. Are pumpkin rice krispie treats gluten-free?

They can be! While rice itself is gluten-free, many commercial crispy rice cereals contain malt extract, which contains gluten. Use a certified gluten-free rice cereal , and ensure your marshmallows, butter, and flavorings are gluten-free. With those adjustments, these bars become an excellent gluten-free fall dessert option.

Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats: The Ultimate Fall Snack Recipe Guide

Name: Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats: The Ultimate Fall Snack Recipe Guide
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal (gluten-free if needed); 1 bag (10 oz) mini marshmallows; ¼ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for added spice); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Description

These pumpkin rice krispie treats are chewy, cozy, and loaded with fall flavor! A quick no-bake dessert made with marshmallows, pumpkin puree, and crispy cereal — perfect for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or a sweet autumn snack.

Ingredients

6 cups Rice Krispies cereal (gluten-free if needed)
1 bag (10 oz) mini marshmallows
¼ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for added spice)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

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Instructions

Prep the pan: Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Drain the pumpkin: Spread pumpkin puree on a paper towel for 5–10 minutes to reduce moisture.
Melt butter: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until just smooth.
Cook the pumpkin: Add drained pumpkin puree to the butter and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Add spices and marshmallows: Stir in pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and mini marshmallows. Stir until melted and gooey.
Finish the mixture: Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt. If using food coloring, add it now.
Add cereal: Fold in the rice cereal quickly until fully coated.
Shape and cool: Transfer mixture into prepared dish. Lightly press down with a spatula or greased hands.
Decorate: Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over the top. Add sprinkles or other toppings if desired.
Cool completely: Let the treats cool for 30–60 minutes at room temperature before cutting.

Notes

½ cup white chocolate chips (for drizzle)
Orange gel food coloring
Fall-themed sprinkles
Candy eyes or M&Ms
Pretzel sticks (for stems if shaping into pumpkins)

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Category: Weight Loss Meals
Cuisine: Vegetarian