Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats

Introduction

Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats are a vibrant and delightful twist on the classic Rice Krispies treat. Infused with the zesty and tangy flavor of pink lemonade, these treats are perfect for summer events, picnics, or anytime you’re craving a fun, fruity snack. The sweetness of marshmallows and the buttery richness combine with the lemonade powder, making these treats a standout. You can even add red food coloring for a pop of color, making them visually striking as well as tasty.

These Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats provide a refreshing citrus kick that balances the sweetness of the marshmallows. The combination of tart lemonade flavor and smooth marshmallow texture ensures a memorable treat. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday, birthday party, or just a family snack, these treats are sure to please. The lemon zest and pinch of salt round out the flavor, adding an extra layer of complexity.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats – Tangy, Sweet, and Perfect for Summer

Author: Jennifer Mitchell
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus cooling time)
Yield: 12-16 treats (depending on size) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats are a sweet, tangy twist on the classic! Infused with the refreshing flavor of pink lemonade, they’re a fun and colorful dessert that’s perfect for summer parties, picnics, or any time you’re craving a sweet treat. The combination of marshmallows, butter, and Rice Krispies is enhanced by the zesty lemon flavor and a hint of pink lemonade powder, creating a chewy, flavorful snack that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 package (10 oz) marshmallows
1/4 cup powdered pink lemonade mix
Red food coloring (optional, for enhanced pink color)
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for added flavor)
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Prepare the pan:

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the treats later.

Melt the butter and marshmallows:

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the marshmallows and stir continuously until they are completely melted and smooth.

Add the pink lemonade mix:

Once the marshmallows are melted, add the powdered pink lemonade mix and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined and the pink lemonade flavor is evenly distributed.

If you want a deeper pink color, add a few drops of red food coloring and stir to achieve your desired shade.

Mix in the Rice Krispies:

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the Rice Krispies cereal, mixing gently until all the cereal is coated in the marshmallow mixture.

Add lemon zest (optional):

If you’re using lemon zest, add it to the mixture and fold it in for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Press into the pan:

Pour the Rice Krispie mixture into the prepared baking dish and use a spatula or your hands (greased with a bit of butter to prevent sticking) to gently press the mixture into an even layer.

Cool and cut:

Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour, or until they have set completely. Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles.

Serve and enjoy:

Serve these pink lemonade Rice Krispie treats at your next event, or enjoy them as a fun, summery snack!

Notes

For an extra citrusy kick, you can increase the amount of pink lemonade mix or add a bit of lemon juice to the melted marshmallow mixture.
If you want a more intense pink color, feel free to add more red food coloring.
These treats are perfect for gifting! Just wrap them up in cellophane bags or a decorative box.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Dessert, Snack
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 treat (based on 16 servings)
Calories: 140 kcal
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 50mg
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats

Instructions:

Prepare the pan:
Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Melt the butter and marshmallows:
In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the marshmallows once the butter is melted, stirring constantly until smooth and completely melted.
Mix in the flavorings:
Stir in the powdered pink lemonade mix and mix until fully dissolved. If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring to achieve a vibrant pink color. Add the zest of 1 lemon and pinch of salt to bring the flavors together.
Combine with the Rice Krispies:
Remove the pan from the heat and gently stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated with the melted marshmallow mixture.
Press into the pan:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan and press it down with a spatula or your hands (greased for easy handling) to create an even layer.
Cool and set:
Allow the treats to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until firm. Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles.
Serve and enjoy:
Once the treats have fully set, they’re ready to serve. Enjoy the tangy, lemony sweetness of your Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats!

Advanced Techniques

Enhancing Texture and Flavor

To make your Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats even more special, you can experiment with different textures and flavors:

Add extra lemon zest: For a more pronounced citrus flavor, consider adding additional zest from one or two more lemons.
Incorporate crushed graham crackers: Adding 1/2 cup of crushed graham crackers to the mixture provides an extra layer of texture and flavor that complements the tangy pink lemonade flavor.
Mix in white chocolate chips: For a creamy contrast, stir in 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips once the marshmallows have melted. This will provide a rich, indulgent touch.

Color Variations

Add food-safe glitter: If you want a sparkling effect, sprinkle edible glitter or colored sugar on top of the treats before they set. This works particularly well for themed parties or celebrations.

Decorative Toppings

For extra flair, you can top your Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats with a drizzle of white chocolate or sprinkle with crushed lemon-flavored candies for a delightful finish.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Storage Tips

Store your Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. If you live in a particularly humid climate, you may want to store them in the fridge to maintain their texture.

Freezing for Longer Storage

To store the treats for a longer period, freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the container to avoid freezer burn. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.

Reheating Tips

Reheating Rice Krispie treats is generally unnecessary as they hold their shape well at room temperature. If you do wish to warm them slightly, place them in a microwave for 5-10 seconds or warm them in the oven at a low temperature, around 250°F, for a few minutes. Just be sure not to overheat, as this can make them overly sticky.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free Version

The original recipe for Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats is naturally gluten-free because Rice Krispies are made with rice. However, it’s important to check the label to ensure that the cereal is certified gluten-free, as some varieties may contain trace gluten due to cross-contamination.

Dairy-Free Adaptation

To make the recipe dairy-free, swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based butter or coconut oil. Additionally, choose dairy-free marshmallows, which are available at many health food stores.

Vegan Version

For a fully vegan version of these treats, replace the marshmallows with a plant-based variety, and use vegan butter. Ensure that the pink lemonade mix doesn’t contain any animal-derived ingredients like gelatin.

Sugar-Free Option

If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, consider using sugar-free marshmallows and a sugar-free version of the pink lemonade powder. You may also want to adjust the amount of sweetener in the recipe to your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About The Recipe

Can I make these treats ahead of time?

Yes! You can make Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats up to 2 days ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

What can I use if I don’t have Rice Krispies?

If you don’t have Rice Krispies on hand, you can use a similar cereal like Cornflakes or Cheerios. The texture may differ slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Can I freeze the Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats?

Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to store these treats. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container or bag.

How can I make the flavor more intense?

For a more intense lemon flavor, consider adding extra lemon zest or lemon extract to the marshmallow mixture.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats are the perfect combination of sweet and tart, with a beautiful pink hue that adds a touch of fun to any occasion. Whether you’re preparing them for a picnic, party, or just a sweet snack, they’ll be sure to impress. The addition of pink lemonade mix and lemon zest makes these treats a refreshing twist on a classic favorite, and their ease of preparation ensures that you can make them anytime you need a quick and tasty treat. So go ahead, give them a try, and enjoy the delicious flavors!