Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats – A No-Bake Holiday Classic

Gingerbread rice krispie treats are the perfect blend of nostalgic comfort and festive holiday flavor. They take the familiar chewiness of classic rice krispie treats and infuse them with warm gingerbread spices, molasses, and brown sugar to create a dessert that tastes like the holidays—without turning on the oven.

These treats are ideal for busy seasons when you want something homemade, cozy, and crowd-pleasing without complicated steps. They come together quickly, use simple ingredients, and deliver big flavor in every chewy bite. Whether you’re making them for holiday parties, cookie trays, school events, or cozy nights at home, gingerbread rice krispie treats are always a hit.

What makes this recipe special is how well gingerbread flavors translate into a no-bake dessert. Molasses adds depth and richness, brown sugar enhances sweetness, and warm spices like ginger and cinnamon bring that unmistakable holiday aroma. Combined with marshmallows and crispy cereal, the result is soft, chewy, and perfectly spiced.

Why Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats Work So Well

Rice krispie treats are beloved because they’re simple and universally appealing. Adding gingerbread flavor elevates them without changing their comforting nature. The spices enhance the sweetness rather than overpower it, making these treats enjoyable for both kids and adults.

These treats are especially popular because they:

• Require no baking
• Come together in under 20 minutes
• Are easy to slice and serve
• Hold their shape well
• Store beautifully for several days

They’re also a great alternative to traditional cookies during the holidays.

Ingredients

• Rice Krispies cereal
• Mini marshmallows
• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Molasses
• Ground ginger
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground cloves
• Ground nutmeg
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

Optional toppings include white icing drizzle, sprinkles, or sanding sugar.

Instructions

1. Line a baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it. Set aside.
2. In a large pot over low heat, melt butter. Stir in brown sugar and molasses until smooth.
3. Add ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Stir gently to bloom the spices.
4. Add marshmallows and cook, stirring constantly, until fully melted and smooth.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Add Rice Krispies cereal and fold gently until evenly coated.
7. Transfer mixture to the prepared pan and press gently into an even layer. Do not compact too tightly.
8. Let set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
9. Slice into squares and drizzle with icing if desired.

Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats

No-bake rice krispie treats infused with warm gingerbread spices and molasses for a festive holiday dessert.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 12 squares

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 190

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 4 cups mini marshmallows
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 0.25 cup brown sugar packed
• 2 tbsp molasses
• 1.5 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 0.25 tsp ground cloves
• 0.25 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt

Equipment

• Large pot
• Spatula
• Baking dish

Method

 

1. Melt butter with brown sugar and molasses.
2. Stir in spices and marshmallows until melted.
3. Fold in cereal until coated.
4. Press into pan and let set.

Notes

Press gently to keep treats soft and chewy.

Texture and Flavor Experience

These gingerbread rice krispie treats are soft, chewy, and lightly crisp from the cereal. The marshmallow base keeps them tender, while molasses adds a deep, caramel-like flavor. Ginger and cinnamon provide warmth, with cloves and nutmeg adding subtle complexity.

The result is a dessert that feels festive but familiar—sweet without being overwhelming and perfectly balanced with spice.

Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats

• Keep heat low to prevent marshmallows from scorching
• Stir constantly for a smooth mixture
• Don’t over-press the mixture into the pan
• Use fresh marshmallows for best texture
• Let treats cool fully before slicing

Variations to Try

Chocolate Drizzle: Add dark or white chocolate on top
Extra Spiced: Increase ginger slightly for bolder flavor
Glazed: Top with a simple powdered sugar glaze
Mini Treats: Press into a smaller pan for thicker bars
Sprinkle Topped: Add festive holiday sprinkles

Serving Suggestions

Gingerbread rice krispie treats are perfect for:

• Holiday cookie trays
• Classroom parties
• Gift boxes
• Dessert tables
• Cozy winter snacks

Serve them with hot cocoa, coffee, or spiced tea for a complete seasonal treat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking. These treats are not ideal for freezing, as texture may change.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Holiday Rotation

This recipe combines ease, flavor, and festive appeal in one simple dessert. It’s approachable, reliable, and always well received. The gingerbread spices make it seasonal without requiring extra effort, and the no-bake method makes it stress-free during busy times.

Once you make these, they’re likely to become a holiday tradition.