Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats (Easy No-Bake Holiday Dessert)

When the holidays roll around, there’s something undeniably comforting about gingerbread. The warm spices, the nostalgic aroma, and the cozy feeling they bring make gingerbread flavors a seasonal staple. But what if you could capture all that holiday magic without turning on the oven? That’s exactly where Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats come in.

This easy no-bake holiday dessert combines the chewy, gooey goodness of classic Rice Krispie treats with the rich spice profile of gingerbread. It’s quick, foolproof, kid-friendly, and perfect for busy holiday schedules when time is short but festive spirit is high.

Whether you’re preparing treats for a Christmas party, a cookie exchange, or a cozy night in with family, these gingerbread-inspired Rice Krispie squares deliver big flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love These Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats

There are plenty of holiday desserts to choose from, but this one stands out for all the right reasons:

• No baking required, making it ideal for quick prep
• Perfect gingerbread flavor without rolling or cutting dough
• Soft, chewy texture with crisp cereal crunch
• Great for gifting, parties, and dessert platters
• Beginner-friendly, even for kids helping in the kitchen

If you love festive desserts but don’t want to spend hours baking, this recipe is a holiday lifesaver.

What Makes Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats Special?

Traditional Rice Krispie treats rely on butter, marshmallows, and cereal alone. What transforms this version into something holiday-worthy is the gingerbread spice blend and rich brown sugar undertones. Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves work together to mimic classic gingerbread cookies, while molasses or brown sugar adds depth and warmth.

The result? A dessert that tastes nostalgic, cozy, and unmistakably seasonal—without sacrificing simplicity.

Ingredients

• Rice Krispies cereal
• Mini marshmallows
• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Molasses
• Ground ginger
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Cloves (optional but recommended)
• Vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Each ingredient plays an important role in creating that signature gingerbread flavor while maintaining the classic Rice Krispie chewiness everyone loves.

Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet or square pan with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter slowly until fully liquid.
3. Stir in brown sugar and molasses, mixing until smooth and fragrant.
4. Add ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla, and salt, stirring well.
5. Pour in marshmallows and stir constantly until fully melted and glossy.
6. Remove from heat and immediately fold in Rice Krispies cereal.
7. Mix gently but quickly until cereal is evenly coated.
8. Transfer mixture into prepared pan and press gently with a spatula.
9. Allow to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes.
10. Slice into squares and serve.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Low heat is key – High heat can scorch marshmallows and make treats hard.
• Don’t over-press – Pressing too firmly compacts the cereal and ruins the soft texture.
• Fresh marshmallows matter – Older marshmallows won’t melt as smoothly.
• Line your pan – Parchment paper makes removal effortless.

Flavor Variations to Try

Want to customize your gingerbread Rice Krispie treats? Try these ideas:

• White chocolate drizzle for a festive finish
• Crushed gingersnap topping for extra spice
• Mini chocolate chips folded in once slightly cooled
• Holiday sprinkles pressed on top before setting

Each variation adds a new layer of texture and visual appeal.

Serving Suggestions

These treats are incredibly versatile and shine in many settings:

• Holiday dessert tables
• Christmas movie nights
• Classroom parties
• Homemade edible gifts
• After-dinner sweets with coffee or cocoa

Stack them on a platter or wrap individually in parchment and twine for gifting.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
• Avoid refrigeration, which can harden the texture
• Layer parchment between stacks to prevent sticking

They’re best enjoyed fresh, but still delicious the next day.

A Little Holiday Fun Fact

Rice Krispie treats became popular in the 1940s, originally created as a fundraiser idea. Combining them with gingerbread flavors is a modern holiday twist that brings together vintage comfort and seasonal tradition in one simple dessert.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a festive dessert that’s quick, cozy, and guaranteed to impress, Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats deserve a spot on your holiday menu. They deliver classic gingerbread warmth with the nostalgic chew of a childhood favorite—no oven required.

Once you try them, they’ll become a yearly tradition.

Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats

Easy no-bake holiday Rice Krispie treats infused with warm gingerbread spices and rich molasses flavor.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 12 squares

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Autumn

Calories: 220

Ingredients

  

Treat Base

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

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Spatula
• Baking sheet

Method

 

1. Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat.
3. Stir in brown sugar, molasses, spices, vanilla, and salt.
4. Add marshmallows and stir until fully melted.
5. Remove from heat and fold in Rice Krispies.
6. Press mixture into prepared pan gently.
7. Cool for 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

Notes

Avoid pressing too firmly to keep treats soft and chewy.