Irresistible Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats for Christmas (Festive & Easy!)

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about a warm cup of hot chocolate during the holiday season. Now imagine that cozy flavor packed into a chewy, chocolatey dessert square—yes, it’s possible with these Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats for Christmas! Made with rich cocoa mix, mini marshmallows, and crispy cereal, this easy, no-bake treat is perfect for festive gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying at home with the family.

If you’re already planning your holiday menu and want more creative seasonal inspiration, try these festive Halloween Brownies or delightful Pumpkin Twists that are perfect for fall-to-winter transitions.

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Why You’ll Love These Holiday Krispie Treats

These Holiday Krispie Treats bring the magic of hot cocoa into a dessert bar that’s:

• Quick and Easy: Takes just 20 minutes to make, with no baking required.
• Perfectly Festive: Great for cookie trays, holiday parties, and edible gifts.
• Kid-Friendly: Simple enough for kids to help with—especially the decorating!
• Deliciously Chocolatey: Cocoa cereal and hot chocolate mix bring the cozy flavor.
• Easy to Customize: Add sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or white chocolate swirls.

With a batch of Cocoa Rice Krispie Treats, you can bring smiles to everyone’s face—young and old.

Ingredients for Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats

To create these chewy, chocolatey squares, you’ll need:

• 6 tablespoons (85g) salted butter
• 1 (12 oz / 340g) bag mini marshmallows, divided
• ½ cup (60g) dry hot chocolate mix, preferably with mini marshmallows
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 6 cups (170g) Cocoa Krispies cereal
• 1½ cups (90g) mini marshmallows, for folding in
• 1½ cups (255g) chocolate chips, melted for topping
• Holiday sprinkles and extra mini marshmallows, for decoration

The key to the signature flavor is using a hot cocoa mix that includes mini marshmallows—it amplifies that classic hot chocolate taste in every bite.

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Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools ready:

• Large saucepan or heavy-bottomed pot
• Heat-resistant silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)

With everything prepped, making these Christmas Rice Krispie Treats will be a breeze.

How to Make Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats for Christmas

Making these Cocoa Krispie Treats is easy, fun, and mess-free. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prep your pan by greasing or lining a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add most of the marshmallows (about 10½ cups) and the hot chocolate mix. Stir until completely melted and smooth.
4. Remove from heat, then stir in vanilla extract.
5. Fold in Cocoa Krispies, mixing quickly to coat the cereal evenly.
6. Add remaining mini marshmallows and gently mix—this gives little gooey pockets inside the treats.
7. Transfer to the baking dish and lightly press into an even layer with a greased spatula.
8. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and pour over the top.
9. Decorate immediately with holiday sprinkles and more marshmallows.
10. Let cool completely, then cut into squares and serve.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Cocoa Krispie Treats

• Don’t Overheat Marshmallows: Melting slowly helps keep the mixture soft and chewy.
• Use Fresh Marshmallows: Old ones tend to clump or dry out.
• Lightly Press the Mixture: Over-pressing leads to dense and tough treats.
• Decorate Before the Chocolate Sets: This ensures sprinkles and toppings stick beautifully.

For another comforting and cozy dessert idea, check out these Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies—they pair wonderfully on a holiday dessert board.

Christmas Rice Krispie Treats Ideas for Creative Variations

Want to add your own flair to this festive dessert? Here are a few ideas:

• Peppermint Crunch: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top.
• White Chocolate Drizzle: For a snowy, elegant touch.
• Red & Green M&Ms: Mix them in with the cereal for pops of color.
• Festive Shapes: Use cookie cutters to make stars, trees, or snowmen.
• Double Marshmallow Layer: Add an extra marshmallow layer in between for a gooier texture.

These variations turn simple Christmas Rice Crispies into an exciting holiday activity for the whole family.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common errors and how to avoid them:

• Overmixing: Can break down the cereal and create a gummy texture.
• Letting the mix sit too long before spreading: It will harden and become difficult to press.
• Not greasing your spatula: Makes spreading more frustrating than it needs to be.
• Using stale cereal: You won’t get that classic crunch.

Keep these in mind to ensure your Cocoa Crispy Treats Rice Krispies come out perfectly every time.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation turns these treats into a show-stopping dessert. Try the following ideas:

• Serve on a holiday-themed platter with hot cocoa mugs.
• Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap tied with ribbons for edible gifts.
• Arrange on a cookie board with Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl and other festive favorites.
• Stick mini candy canes in each square for a fun, edible handle.

Let your creativity shine with festive presentation!

How to Store Leftover Christmas Crispy Treats

To keep your treats fresh:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate: For up to 5 days, but they may firm up.
• Freeze: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 6 weeks. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Food Pairings for Cocoa Rice Krispie Treats

These sweet treats pair well with cozy holiday drinks and sides:

• Hot cocoa with marshmallows
• Chai tea or cinnamon herbal tea
• Warm milk with a touch of honey
• Fruit platters with apple slices and berries

For a well-rounded dessert spread, consider adding a bowl of sweet and fluffy Fruit Dip for guests to enjoy with fruit or crackers.

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FAQs About Christmas Rice Krispie Treats

Can I use regular Rice Krispies instead of Cocoa Krispies?
Yes, but you’ll lose the chocolate flavor. You can add extra cocoa powder or chocolate chips to compensate.

How do I make these treats extra gooey?
Add more marshmallows or reduce the cereal slightly.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Store in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for a few days.

Can I freeze these treats?
Yes! They freeze well for up to 6 weeks.

Are these gluten-free?
Make sure to use gluten-free cereal and marshmallows if needed.

Final Thoughts on Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats for Christmas

These Hot Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats for Christmas are everything you love about the holidays—warm, sweet, and easy to share. With minimal prep and tons of festive flair, they’re ideal for cookie trays, school parties, or just cozy nights by the fire.

They’re also a fun dessert to make with kids and a great way to bring holiday cheer to your kitchen. Add them to your holiday traditions, and they’ll be a favorite for years to come.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and subscribe to the blog for more cozy, seasonal favorites!

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