Decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Think the classic Rice Krispies Treat couldn’t get any better? Think again. These Decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats take that childhood favorite and turn it into a dessert worthy of a fancy bakery case — chewy, gooey, chocolatey, and loaded with sweet cherry flavor.

Each bite combines the nostalgic crunch of crispy cereal, the creamy sweetness of marshmallows, and the bold flavor of cherries — all topped (or dipped) in silky, rich chocolate. It’s a simple, no-bake treat that looks and tastes gourmet.

Perfect for Valentine’s Day, holiday dessert trays, bake sales, or just a cozy weekend indulgence, this dessert brings major “wow” factor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🍒 Cherry + Chocolate = Perfection – The classic flavor duo everyone loves.
🍫 No Bake – No oven, no hassle, just quick stovetop magic.
✨ Pretty & Giftable – Gorgeous squares that look like you bought them from a confectionery.
👩‍🍳 Easy to Make Ahead – Holds up beautifully for parties or gifting.
💝 Kid and Adult Approved – Sweet, chewy, and visually stunning!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cherry Rice Krispies Base:

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup finely chopped maraschino cherries, patted dry
• 1 tablespoon maraschino cherry juice (optional, for pink color)
• Pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Topping:

• 1½ cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening (for shine and smooth texture)

Optional Decorations:

• Extra chopped cherries
• White chocolate drizzle
• Crushed freeze-dried cherries or sprinkles

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan

Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting later. Lightly butter the parchment to prevent sticking.

2. Melt the Butter and Marshmallows

In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter. Add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth.

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and optional cherry juice for a pink hue.

3. Add the Cherries

Fold in the finely chopped, well-drained maraschino cherries. (Make sure they’re dry — excess liquid can make the treats soggy.)

4. Mix in the Cereal

Pour in the Rice Krispies cereal and stir quickly until evenly coated. The mixture should be sticky but manageable.

5. Press into Pan

Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Grease your hands or use a piece of parchment paper to gently press the mixture evenly into the pan — don’t compact it too tightly or it may turn hard.

Let cool at room temperature for 30–40 minutes.

6. Cut into Squares

Once set, lift out the block using the parchment overhang and cut into 12–16 squares or rectangles.

7. Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with coconut oil in 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth and glossy.

8. Dip or Drizzle

Dip each Rice Krispies square halfway into the melted chocolate, or drizzle it artfully over the top. Set them on a parchment-lined tray.

Optional: Sprinkle with extra chopped cherries, a drizzle of white chocolate, or crushed freeze-dried cherries for color.

9. Let Set

Allow chocolate to set at room temperature for 1–2 hours, or refrigerate for 20 minutes if you’re impatient (no judgment!).

Decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

Chewy marshmallow cereal bars loaded with maraschino cherries and dipped in rich chocolate — a no-bake dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 16 bars

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, No-Bake

Calories: 210

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Rice Krispies Base

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 10 oz mini marshmallows
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 0.5 cup maraschino cherries finely chopped and patted dry
• 1 tbsp maraschino cherry juice optional, for color
• 1 pinch salt

Chocolate Coating

• 1.5 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 tbsp coconut oil for smooth melting

Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• 9×13 baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Microwave-safe bowl

Method

 

1. Line a 9×13 pan with parchment and butter lightly.
2. Melt butter in a large pot, add marshmallows and stir until smooth.
3. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla, salt, and cherry juice.
4. Fold in chopped cherries and Rice Krispies until coated.
5. Press mixture into pan and cool completely.
6. Cut into squares.
7. Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil; dip or drizzle over bars.
8. Let chocolate set before serving.

Notes

Pat cherries dry to prevent sogginess. Use dark chocolate for a richer contrast.

Tips for Perfect Cherry Rice Krispies Treats

1. Dry the cherries well – Too much syrup makes the treats soggy.
2. Don’t overmix – Fold gently once cereal is added to keep them airy.
3. Work quickly – Marshmallow mixture firms up fast, so mix and press promptly.
4. Use parchment to press – Keeps your hands clean and prevents sticking.
5. Store at room temperature – Chilling too long can make them hard.

Flavor Variations

🍒 Black Forest Twist

Add mini chocolate chips and a drizzle of whipped cream frosting before dipping in chocolate for a dessert reminiscent of Black Forest cake.

🍫 White Chocolate Cherry Bars

Use white chocolate instead of dark for a creamy contrast — beautiful and elegant.

🌰 Chocolate Cherry Almond Treats

Stir in ¼ cup sliced almonds or almond extract for a nutty, fragrant version.

🎂 Cherry Party Krispies

Add red and pink sprinkles before the chocolate sets for a festive, party-ready touch.

Serving Ideas

• Slice into small squares and wrap individually for homemade edible gifts.
• Serve with coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy winter dessert.
• Use heart-shaped cookie cutters for Valentine’s Day or anniversaries.
• Add to a dessert board with chocolate truffles, fruit, and cookies.

Storage Tips

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerator: Not recommended unless your kitchen is warm — can make treats too firm.
• Freezer: Freeze cut squares (without chocolate) for up to 2 months. Thaw before dipping.

Make Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the Rice Krispies base up to 2 days in advance, then dip in chocolate before serving for maximum freshness and shine.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Dessert

Every bite feels like pure decadence — soft, chewy, and bursting with sweet cherry flavor, balanced perfectly by the dark chocolate shell. It’s nostalgic yet sophisticated, turning a childhood treat into something worthy of a dinner party dessert spread.

Plus, they’re no-bake, no-fuss, and ready in less than an hour. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, cherry fanatic, or just someone who appreciates quick desserts that look impressive, this recipe is a must-try.

Nutrition (Per Bar)

Fun Fact

Rice Krispies Treats were invented in 1939 by Kellogg’s employees Mildred Day and Malitta Jensen as a fundraiser recipe for the Campfire Girls. Decades later, we’re still reinventing them — and this cherry-chocolate version might just be the best one yet.

Conclusion

These Decadent Chocolate Covered Cherry Rice Krispies Treats are proof that simple ingredients can create truly unforgettable desserts. With chewy marshmallow cereal layers, bright bursts of cherry, and a luxurious chocolate finish, they’re a guaranteed hit for any occasion.

From holiday cookie swaps to Valentine’s gifts or spontaneous sweet cravings, these no-bake beauties deliver joy, nostalgia, and a touch of elegance in every bite.

So grab a saucepan, a bag of marshmallows, and a few cherries — it’s time to make something sweetly irresistible. 🍒🍫