When the holiday season begins to twinkle with lights and laughter, I find myself craving cozy treats that capture the spirit of the festivities. There’s something utterly delightful about the blend of chocolate and peppermint, especially as the weather turns chilly. This is where my Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats come into play an easy, no-bake dessert that will have everyone raving at your next gathering.
Imagine biting into a chewy, crispy square that bursts with rich chocolate flavor, complemented by a refreshing hint of peppermint all while taking just minutes to prepare! Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply satisfy your sweet tooth, this festive treat is a perfect last-minute addition to your holiday repertoire. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that combines nostalgic childhood flavors with adult holiday sophistication, ensuring smiles all around!
Why love Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats?
Irresistible Festive Flavor: The delightful combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a treat that captures the essence of the holidays.
No-Bake Delight: Perfect for busy schedules, whip these up in minutes no oven required!
Customizable Fun: Experiment with toppings like crushed candy canes or mini chocolate chips to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These treats are sure to impress both kids and adults alike, making them a hit at holiday gatherings.
Quick Clean-Up: With minimal dishes involved, you’ll have more time to enjoy the festivities.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats Ingredients
For the Treats
• Rice Krispies cereal – Provides structure and crunch; do not substitute for other cereals to maintain texture.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together; coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free version.
• Peppermint flavored marshmallows (10.5 oz bag) – Essential for that peppermint flavor and sticky texture; reserve 1 cup for topping.
• Hot chocolate mix (9 tbsp or 4 packets) – Imparts a rich cocoa flavor; using a high-quality organic mix is recommended for the best experience.
For the Toppings
• Crushed candy canes (optional) – Adds a festive crunch and extra peppermint flavor; you can also use chocolate sprinkles for a different look.
• Reserved peppermint marshmallows – Use these on top to boost the peppermint flavor in your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats.
How to Make Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats
- Prepare the Pan: Spray an 8 x 11.5 glass pan with cooking spray to ensure easy release once your treats are set. This prevents sticking and makes serving a breeze!
- Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on it until it’s fully melted, creating a rich base for your delicious treats.
- Melt the Marshmallows: Once the butter has melted, stir in the peppermint-flavored marshmallows. Keep stirring until they are completely melted and smooth, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine with Cocoa: Sprinkle in the hot chocolate mix and stir vigorously for about 1 minute. This will infuse your marshmallow mixture with a rich cocoa flavor.
- Mix in Rice Krispies: Remove the pot from heat and gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until every piece is fully coated in that delightful melted mixture.
- Spread Evenly: Use waxed paper to evenly press the mixture into your prepared glass pan. This step is essential to achieve that perfect chewy texture without making a mess!
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the reserved marshmallows and crushed candy canes (if using) on top of your mixture. Gently press them into the treat base for added sweetness and crunch.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the treats to cool completely before cutting them into squares. This cooling process is crucial to ensure they hold their shape when serving.
Optional: Drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgent touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the entire mixture up to 3 days in advance. Simply follow the instructions up to the cooling step, then allow the treats to cool completely before cutting them into squares. To maintain their quality, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. When you’re ready to serve, just cut them and arrange them on a festive platter. This way, you’ll have a delightful treat that’s just as delicious and ready to impress your guests, all with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats
Room Temperature: Store your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and chewy.
Fridge: If you prefer to extend their shelf life, place the treats in the fridge, where they can last up to 2 weeks—just allow them to reach room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the treats in an airtight container or plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: If preferred, you can lightly microwave a square for about 10 seconds to restore its chewy texture before serving, but enjoy them cool for the best experience!
What to Serve with Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats?
Pair your delightful no-bake treats with complementary flavors and textures to create a memorable holiday spread.
- Creamy Hot Cocoa: The rich, chocolatey warmth of classic hot cocoa enhances the peppermint flavor, making each bite even more indulgent.
- Festive Fruit Salad: A bright mix of seasonal fruits like pomegranates, oranges, and apples adds freshness and a contrasting texture to your dessert table.
- Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices of chai perfectly complement the chocolate and peppermint, creating a cozy beverage that warms you from the inside out.
- Nutty Biscotti: Enjoy a crunchy, nutty biscotti alongside your treats for a delightful texture contrast, enhancing the holiday experience with every bite.
- Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: These sweet, juicy morsels echo the chocolatey goodness of the treats and add a fresh twist that will entice every palate.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Embrace the spirit of the season with spiced gingerbread cookies; their sweetness and strong flavor pair wonderfully with the treats.
- Peppermint Tea: A cup of warm peppermint tea can refresh the palate after enjoying the sweets, offering a calming finish to your dessert experience.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream on top of your treats adds a creamy element that enhances every bite, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
- Chocolate Mint Milkshake: Indulge your sweet tooth with a thick, delectable mint chocolate milkshake that pairs perfectly with every chewy morsel.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful treats with a few easy swaps and additions!
- Mild Marshmallows: Substitute peppermint marshmallows with regular ones for a milder treat that everyone will enjoy.
- Gluten-Free Crunch: Swap Rice Krispies for your favorite gluten-free cereal to create a delightful gluten-free version, ensuring everyone can indulge.
- Chocolate Boost: Add mini chocolate chips to the mixture for extra chocolatey goodness or sprinkle them on top for a luscious garnish.
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, into the mixture for a wonderful crunchy texture that complements the chewy squares.
- Spicy Twist: Dash in a little cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the warm mixture for a surprising kick that pairs perfectly with chocolate and peppermint.
- Other Flavors: Try using flavored marshmallows, such as vanilla or chocolate, to make this treat even more unique and personalized.
- Coconut Finish: Swap the butter for coconut oil, giving these treats a subtle tropical twist while remaining dairy-free.
- Decorative Drizzle: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the top before cooling for an elegant touch that also adds creamy sweetness.
Expert Tips for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats
- Chill Time Matters: Allow the treats to cool completely before cutting them into squares; this ensures they hold their shape without crumbling.
- Melted Perfection: Make sure the marshmallows are fully melted when combined with the butter to create a smooth, lump-free mixture for your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats.
- Prevent Sticking: Use waxed paper to spread the mixture evenly into the pan; this allows for easy removal and prevents sticking.
- Don’t Rush It: Fold the Rice Krispies gently into the melted mixture to maintain their crunch and ensure even coating.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra pop of peppermint, use crushed candy canes generously on top, but make sure to press them in gently!
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats Recipe FAQs
What type of Rice Krispies cereal should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using standard Rice Krispies cereal as it provides the perfect structure and crunch. Avoid substituting it with other cereals, as the texture won’t be the same and could affect the final result of your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats.
How should I store my Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats?
You can store your treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, ensuring they stay fresh and chewy. If you want to keep them longer, the fridge is also an option just be sure to allow them to warm to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture!
Can I freeze Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place your treats in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and they will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. If you prefer a warm treat, feel free to lightly microwave a square for about 10 seconds.
What should I do if my marshmallows don’t melt smoothly?
No worries! If your marshmallows don’t melt completely and leave you with lumps, return the pot to low heat, stirring gently until everything is smooth. It’s crucial to keep the heat low to prevent burning, and stirring continuously will help create that perfect, creamy mixture for your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats.
Can I make these treats dairy-free?
Very much! To make dairy-free Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats, simply substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil. This will maintain the richness while keeping it suitable for a dairy-free diet. Just make sure your peppermint marshmallows are dairy-free as well!
Are there any allergy considerations with these treats?
Absolutely! The main ingredients do contain potential allergens like marshmallows that may have traces of nuts or dairy. It’s always wise to double-check ingredient labels or opt for allergy-friendly brands if you’re serving guests with specific dietary needs or allergies. Enjoy baking safely!
Irresistible Peppermint Hot Chocolate Krispies Treats Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Pan: Spray an 8 x 11.5 glass pan with cooking spray to ensure easy release once your treats are set.
- Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Melt the Marshmallows: Stir in the peppermint-flavored marshmallows until completely melted and smooth.
- Combine with Cocoa: Sprinkle in the hot chocolate mix and stir vigorously for about 1 minute.
- Mix in Rice Krispies: Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until every piece is fully coated.
- Spread Evenly: Use waxed paper to evenly press the mixture into your prepared glass pan.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the reserved marshmallows and crushed candy canes on top, gently pressing them into the treat base.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the treats to cool completely before cutting them into squares.