Pumpkin Rice Krispies transform classic cereal treats into festive fall desserts with marshmallows and pumpkin pie spice. Melted butter helps bind the vibrant orange mixture, which you’ll shape into adorable pumpkin balls. Garnish with candy corn stems for a playful touch that makes these perfect for Halloween parties or a sweet autumn snack.
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Table of Contents
Ingredients for Pumpkin Rice Krispies
For the mixture
- Rice Krispies cereal – The star of the show! This crispy cereal gives the perfect crunch.
- Marshmallows – Go for the classic kind; they melt like a dream and hold everything together.
- Unsalted butter – Adds that rich, creamy base to the mix.
- Pumpkin pie spice – Just a hint brings all those cozy fall flavors.
- Vanilla extract – A little goes a long way to enhance the sweetness.
- Orange food coloring – Gel or liquid works, but gel tends to give a more vibrant hue.
For the garnish
- Candy corn – The quintessential fall treat that doubles as the perfect pumpkin stem.
- Green frosting or melted green candy melts – Either one works great for creating those adorable little stems.
Cook Time for Pumpkin Rice Krispies Treats
I love how quickly these festive fall dessert with candy melts come together, especially on busy weeknights. The timing is one of the biggest perks of this no-bake pumpkin spice marshmallow squares recipe. You’re just minutes away from a delightful treat!
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 20 minutes |
Since you won’t be heating up the kitchen, these are perfect for making with kids on a warm autumn afternoon. For another quick and delightful no-bake idea, check out my favorite healthy no-bake desserts on the blog.
How to Make Pumpkin Rice Krispies
Step 1: Melt the Base
Place a large pot on the stove over low heat and add the unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, then add the marshmallows. Stir constantly with a rubber spatula until the marshmallows are fully melted and the mixture is smooth, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 2: Add Flavor and Color
Remove the pot from the heat and add the pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and 5–6 drops of orange food coloring. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is evenly combined and achieves a vibrant orange color.
Step 3: Combine with Cereal
Immediately add the Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Cereal to the marshmallow mixture. Use a rubber spatula to fold the cereal into the mixture until every piece is evenly coated.
Step 4: Shape the Pumpkins
Lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Scoop portions of the mixture and shape them into 12 small balls, approximately 2 inches in diameter, to resemble pumpkins. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Garnish and Set
Press one piece of candy corn into the top of each pumpkin to create a stem. Alternatively, use a piping bag to apply a small amount of green frosting or melted green candy melts in place of the candy corn. Allow the pumpkin rice Krispies to cool and set for 20 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve made more batches of these chewy orange cereal treats with candy corn than I can count! Here are a few of my favorite kitchen-tested tips to ensure your Halloween Rice Krispies turn out perfectly every single time.
- Flavor Swap: For a deeper flavor, try using browned butter instead of regular melted butter. It adds a wonderful, nutty complexity that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin spice.
- Diet Tweak: You can easily make these gluten-free by ensuring your cereal is certified gluten-free. For more inspiration, my gluten-free pumpkin bread is another fantastic autumn treat.
- Texture Fix: If your mixture seems too stiff or dry while shaping, lightly dampen your hands with water instead of more butter. This prevents adding extra grease and helps the mixture stick together perfectly.
- Storage Tip: Always store your Pumpkin Rice Krispies in an airtight container at room temperature. For maximum freshness, place a piece of parchment between layers. According to WSU Food Storage Tips, keeping them in a cool, dry place will maintain their chewy texture for up to three days.
Pumpkin Rice Krispies
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 10 ounces marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup candy corn
- 1/4 cup green frosting or melted green candy melts
Equipment
- saucepan
- Rubber spatula
- baking sheet
Method
- In a large pot, melt the butter over low heat. Once fully melted, add the marshmallows and stir constantly until completely smooth and no lumps remain, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and 5-6 drops of orange food coloring until evenly combined and the mixture is vibrant orange.
- Quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal with a rubber spatula until all the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
- Lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray, then shape the mixture into 12 small pumpkin-shaped balls, about 2 inches in diameter each. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Press a piece of candy corn into the top of each pumpkin for the stem. Alternatively, pipe a small amount of green frosting or melted green candy melts on top to resemble a stem. Let cool for 20 minutes before serving.
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
While these Pumpkin Rice Krispies are certainly a sweet treat, I want to be transparent about what’s inside these delightful orange cereal balls. They’re perfect for special occasions when you want to indulge a little while still using real ingredients.
I always believe that understanding what we eat helps us make better choices for our families. These Pumpkin Rice Krispies treats bring joy and nostalgia to the table, and sometimes that’s exactly what we need for our soul.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 pumpkin) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Total Fat | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 23g |
| Sugar | 14g |
| Protein | 1g |
Remember that marshmallows and candy corn contribute most of the sugar content in these Pumpkin Rice Krispies. For those watching their intake, the FDA Food Safety Guidelines recommend limiting added sugars while still enjoying treats in moderation.
If you’re looking for healthier pumpkin options, my pumpkin protein bars offer more protein and less sugar, while these healthy muffin recipes provide delicious alternatives for everyday snacking.
A Lighter Version of Pumpkin Rice Krispies
I understand that sometimes we want all the festive fun of these Halloween Rice Krispies with a little less indulgence. Over the years, I’ve developed some clever tweaks that lighten up these treats without sacrificing that magical pumpkin spice flavor we all love.
My favorite swap is using miniature marshmallows instead of regular sized ones — they seem to coat the cereal more evenly, so you can actually use about 25% less while still achieving that perfect chewy texture. Another trick I learned from my grandmother: replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce.
It adds natural moisture and a subtle fruitiness that complements the pumpkin pie spice beautifully. For those avoiding food coloring, try using a teaspoon of turmeric instead — it gives a lovely golden-orange hue and adds anti-inflammatory benefits too.
If you enjoy these healthier twists, you might also love my collection of healthy no-bake desserts or these simple healthy baking recipes that use wholesome ingredients without compromising on taste.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
When my cousin was diagnosed as diabetic a few years back, I started reimagining all our family favorites to be more sugar-conscious without losing their soul. These Pumpkin Rice Krispies can absolutely be adapted for those watching their blood sugar or following special diets — it just takes a little creativity and some smart swaps.
For a truly diabetic-friendly version, I replace the regular marshmallows with sugar-free marshmallows and use a natural sweetener like stevia or xylitol in the mixture. The candy corn garnish can be swapped with a small piece of green apple or a sliver of dark chocolate with high cocoa content.
Another tip I’ve found helpful: make smaller portion sizes to help with glycemic control. Instead of forming 2-inch balls, try making bite-sized versions about one inch in diameter — you still get that festive pumpkin shape but with better portion management.
Remember that using pumpkin pie spice itself is wonderful for flavor without adding sugar, and the cinnamon component may actually help with blood sugar regulation. These small adjustments let everyone enjoy this festive fall dessert while staying true to their health goals.
How to Serve Pumpkin Rice Krispies
I’ll never forget the first time I brought these Pumpkin Rice Krispies to our neighborhood Halloween party. The children’s eyes widened at the cheerful orange pumpkins arranged on my grandmother’s vintage platter, and within minutes, the entire batch had disappeared! That’s the magic of these treats — they bring instant joy to any gathering.
For parties, I love arranging them on a large wooden board surrounded by other autumn treats like my spooky Halloween cookies and a bowl of perfectly roasted pumpkin seeds for a savory balance. The contrast of salty and sweet always pleases every palate.
These no-bake pumpkin spice marshmallow squares pair wonderfully with warm apple cider or a pumpkin spice latte for adults, while children adore them with cold milk. For Thanksgiving, I often serve them alongside more traditional desserts as a playful option that reminds us not to take ourselves too seriously.
However you choose to serve your Pumpkin Rice Krispies, the most important ingredient is always the joy of sharing something made with love. These cheerful treats have become part of our family’s autumn tradition, and I hope they find a special place in your seasonal celebrations too.
Mistakes to Avoid
Over the years of making these Pumpkin Rice Krispies treats, I’ve learned a few lessons the hard way so you don’t have to. Nothing breaks my heart more than when someone tells me their cereal treats turned out rock-hard or too sticky — usually it’s just one small misstep that makes all the difference.
First, never overheat your marshmallows. I once melted mine until they were bubbling vigorously, and the result was tough, chewy treats that stuck to our teeth. Melt them gently over low heat just until smooth and creamy — they should still have some volume rather than turning into a thin liquid.
Second, don’t skip greasing your hands when shaping the pumpkins. I learned this when my first batch turned into a sticky orange mess that clung to my fingers. Lightly buttered or oiled hands make shaping these Halloween Rice Krispie treats with green frosting so much easier and neater.
Finally, avoid adding too much food coloring. The vibrant orange hue is delightful, but excess liquid can make your cereal soggy. Start with a few drops and add gradually until you achieve that perfect pumpkin shade for your festive fall dessert with candy melts.
For more troubleshooting tips, check out my easy oatmeal cookie guide that covers common baking mistakes. And remember that proper ingredient handling follows FDA Food Safety Guidelines to keep your treats both delicious and safe.
How to Store Pumpkin Rice Krispies
I’ll never forget the Thanksgiving when my aunt tucked a few Pumpkin Rice Krispies into her purse “for later” — only to discover them the next week, still perfectly fresh and chewy. That’s when I realized how wonderfully these treats keep when stored properly.
These no-bake pumpkin spice marshmallow squares stay freshest in an airtight container at room temperature. I like to use my grandmother’s vintage tin with a tight-fitting lid, but any container that seals well will work. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
For longer storage, you can freeze these chewy orange cereal treats with candy corn for up to three months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving — they’ll taste just-made.
Follow WSU Food Storage Tips for best practices, and consider making a batch of my gluten-free pumpkin bread to store alongside these treats for variety.
Try This Pumpkin Rice Krispies Yourself
The first time I made these Pumpkin Rice Krispies with my youngest daughter, she looked up at me with orange-tinted fingers and the biggest smile, declaring, “Mama, we made magic!” That’s exactly how these simple treats feel — like creating edible joy with your own hands.
I encourage you to gather your family and try this Pumpkin Rice Krispies recipe together. Let the children shape the pumpkins while you melt the marshmallows, creating memories that will last long after the last treat has been enjoyed.
These easy pumpkin pie spiced crispy cereal bars have become part of our family’s autumn tradition, and I hope they bring the same warmth to your kitchen. Whether for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving gatherings, or just a cozy afternoon treat, they never fail to delight.
If you love these, you might also enjoy my moist pumpkin cupcakes, these soft pumpkin cookies, or perhaps some savory pumpkin ravioli for a complete seasonal meal. For healthier options, my healthier Thanksgiving desserts and nutritious fall dinners offer balanced alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the secret ingredient in rice krispie treats?
The real secret lies in how you handle the marshmallows. Gently melting them over low heat until just smooth (not boiling) creates the perfect chewy texture. For Pumpkin Rice Krispies, the pumpkin pie spice blend becomes that special touch that makes them unforgettable.
How healthy is pumpkin rice?
While pumpkin itself is nutritious, these treats are more about festive enjoyment than health food. The pumpkin in our Pumpkin Rice Krispies adds flavor and moisture rather than significant nutrition. For genuinely healthy options, try my pumpkin protein bars instead.
Did they discontinue rice crispy treat cereal?
Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Treat Cereal is still available, but we use the original Rice Krispies cereal for this recipe. The plain cereal gives you better control over the sweetness and texture when making homemade Pumpkin Rice Krispies treats from scratch.
How to spruce up rice krispies?
Seasonal flavors and creative shapes make ordinary treats extraordinary! Adding pumpkin spice and orange tint creates these festive Pumpkin Rice Krispies, while candy corn stems and green frosting leaves turn them into adorable pumpkins perfect for fall celebrations.
More Festive Fall Recipes You’ll Love
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, nothing comforts like seasonal treats made with love. Here are more autumn favorites that fill our kitchen with warmth and wonderful aromas.
Best Pumpkin Muffins – Moist, spicy muffins topped with crunchy streusel that make mornings feel special.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies – Cake-like cookies with cream cheese frosting that melt in your mouth with autumn spice.
Perfectly Roasted Pumpkin Seeds – Savory, crunchy seeds seasoned three ways that make carving pumpkins even more rewarding.
Spooky Halloween Cookies – Decorated sugar cookies with playful designs that bring giggles and spooky fun to your celebration.
