Gluten-Free Rice Krispie Treats Recipe
Original Kellogg's Rice Krispies contain barley malt extract for flavor, and barley contains gluten, so the classic cereal isn't actually gluten-free despite being rice-based. Swapping in a certified gluten-free crisp rice cereal keeps the same light, crackly texture and buttery marshmallow flavor while making the treats safe for a gluten-free diet.
- Prep
- 10 min
- Cook
- 5 min
- Total
- 45 min
- Servings
- 16
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 6 cups gluten-free crisp rice cereal (check label for certification)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
Nutrition per serving
- Calories
- 108
- Protein
- 1g
- Carbs
- 21g
- Fat
- 2g
Based on the recipe as written, one serving. Recalculates if you swap an ingredient above. An estimate only, exact values depend on the specific ingredients used.
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Instructions
- 1Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides, or grease it well with butter.
- 2Melt the butter in a large pot over low heat, swirling occasionally so it doesn't brown.
- 3Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
- 4Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- 5Add the gluten-free rice cereal and fold gently with a spatula until every piece is coated; work quickly before the mixture starts to set.
- 6Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press it into an even layer using greased hands or a piece of wax paper, pressing just firmly enough to hold together.
- 7Let cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then lift out using the parchment overhang and cut into 16 squares.
Tips & variations
- Always check the cereal box for a gluten-free certification symbol rather than assuming rice cereal is automatically gluten-free; many mainstream brands add malt flavoring derived from barley.
- Browning the butter for an extra minute before adding the marshmallows adds a nutty, toffee-like depth to the finished treats.
- For extra-gooey centers, hold back 1 cup of marshmallows and fold them in unmelted right before pressing the mixture into the pan.
- Stir in 1 cup of gluten-free chocolate chips or M&Ms with the cereal for a colorful variation.
Storage & reheating
Store the cut squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days; they turn stale and dry faster once refrigerated. To freeze, wrap individually and freeze for up to 1 month, then thaw at room temperature for about 20 minutes before eating.
Tips from the Tulo kitchen
- Greasing hands or a spatula with a little extra butter before pressing the mixture keeps it from sticking without needing to press harder.
- If the marshmallow mixture starts to firm up before all the cereal is folded in, return the pot to very low heat for 20-30 seconds to loosen it back up.
FAQ
Are Rice Krispies gluten free?
No. Original Kellogg's Rice Krispies are made mainly from rice, but the recipe includes barley malt extract for flavor, and barley contains gluten. That makes the classic cereal unsafe for a gluten-free diet even though rice itself has none.
What cereal should I buy instead to make gluten-free treats?
Look for a crisp rice cereal specifically labeled gluten-free on the package, such as those from brands like One Degree Organic Foods, Barbara's, or Nature's Path. Some regions also carry a Kellogg's Rice Krispies Gluten Free product made without malt flavoring.
Can cross-contamination be an issue even with gluten-free cereal?
Yes, for anyone with celiac disease or severe sensitivity. Check that the package carries a certified gluten-free label, since that certification confirms the product is made in a facility that controls for cross-contact, not just that the ingredients themselves are gluten-free.
Why did my treats turn out hard instead of soft?
This usually comes from overcooking the marshmallow mixture or pressing the cereal into the pan too firmly. Melt marshmallows just until smooth and use light, even pressure when pressing the mixture into the pan.