No-bake Rice Krispie puddings are a quick and nostalgic treat that I can whip up in no time using simple pantry staples. With crispy rice cereal, melted chocolate, and sweet additions like marshmallows or candies, these mini puddings are perfect for the holidays—or any time I want a fun and easy dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s no-bake, kid-friendly, and endlessly customizable. It’s great for getting creative in the kitchen, especially around Christmas when I want to make something festive without turning on the oven. These treats are bite-sized, adorable, and always a crowd-pleaser at parties, bake sales, or just as a sweet snack at home.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Rice Krispies cereal
- Milk or dark chocolate (melted)
- Golden syrup or corn syrup
- Butter
- Mini marshmallows or raisins (optional)
- White chocolate (for topping)
- Red and green candies or sprinkles (for decoration)
- Optional: desiccated coconut or crushed candy canes
Directions
- I melt the chocolate, butter, and syrup together in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth and glossy.
- I pour the mixture over the Rice Krispies in a large bowl and stir well until everything is evenly coated.
- I mix in marshmallows or raisins if I’m using them.
- I spoon the mixture into mini cupcake cases or shape them into small balls and place them on a tray lined with parchment paper.
- Once they’ve set slightly, I melt the white chocolate and drizzle it over the top to resemble icing.
- I decorate with red and green candies or festive sprinkles, then let them set completely at room temperature or in the fridge.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12 to 18 mini puddings, depending on the size. They take around 15 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes to chill and set.
Variations
Sometimes I switch up the chocolate—using white or caramel chocolate for the base. I also like adding crushed peppermint or orange zest for a festive twist. If I’m going for a nuttier flavor, I’ll throw in chopped nuts or swap marshmallows for peanut butter chips. I’ve even made them vegan by using dairy-free chocolate and syrup.
Storage/reheating
I store these in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If it’s warm, I keep them in the fridge so the chocolate stays firm. There’s no need to reheat them—they’re ready to enjoy straight from the container.
FAQs
Can I use other cereals instead of Rice Krispies?
Yes, I’ve made them with cornflakes, Cheerios, or puffed rice. Just make sure the chocolate mixture coats them well.
Do they need to be refrigerated?
Only if the room is warm or I want them to set faster. Otherwise, they’re fine at room temperature in a cool spot.
Can kids help make this recipe?
Absolutely. I let the kids stir, scoop, and decorate—it’s a great hands-on treat that doesn’t require baking.
How do I keep them from sticking?
I use mini cupcake liners or lightly grease my hands when shaping the mixture into balls. A lined tray also helps during setting.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, I often make them a day or two in advance for parties. They store well and taste just as good after a couple of days.
Conclusion
No-bake Rice Krispie puddings are one of my go-to treats when I want something fun, festive, and fuss-free. They’re easy to make, super cute, and always get smiles from kids and adults alike. Whether for a holiday spread or just a sweet snack, these little puddings are as enjoyable to make as they are to eat.
PrintNo-Bake Rice Krispie Puddings
No-bake Rice Krispie puddings are festive, bite-sized treats made with crispy rice cereal, melted chocolate, and fun toppings. Quick to prepare and perfect for the holidays or any time you need a sweet, no-fuss dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12–18 mini puddings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup milk or dark chocolate, chopped or chips
- 2 tbsp golden syrup or corn syrup
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows or raisins (optional)
- 1/2 cup white chocolate (for topping)
- Red and green candies or festive sprinkles (for decoration)
- Optional: 2 tbsp desiccated coconut or crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Melt the chocolate, butter, and syrup together in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the melted mixture over Rice Krispies in a large bowl and stir to coat evenly.
- Fold in marshmallows or raisins if using.
- Spoon the mixture into mini cupcake cases or shape into balls and place on a parchment-lined tray.
- Let set slightly at room temperature or in the fridge.
- Melt the white chocolate and drizzle over each pudding to resemble icing.
- Decorate with red and green candies or sprinkles.
- Allow to fully set before serving or storing.
Notes
- Use cupcake liners or greased hands to avoid sticking.
- Store in a cool, airtight container to maintain texture.
- Try caramel, white chocolate, or peppermint variations for different flavors.
- Great for making ahead—keeps well for several days.
- Make vegan by using dairy-free chocolate and syrup.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini pudding
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
