Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats

Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats are a fun, festive twist on the classic treat, made by shaping colorful cereal squares into vibrant autumn leaf shapes. Perfect for seasonal parties, school events, or cozy snacks, these cheerful goodies are easy to make and loved by all ages.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Rice Krispies cerealmarshmallowsunsalted buttervanilla extractgel or liquid food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green)nonstick spraysilicone or metal leaf-shaped cookie cutters

directions

In a large saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted.

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Divide the mixture evenly into 3–4 separate bowls, depending on how many colors you want.

Add food coloring to each bowl and stir until the desired shades are achieved.

Quickly stir in Rice Krispies cereal to each colored batch and mix well.

Press each colored batch into a greased baking dish or onto wax paper and flatten evenly using a spatula or wax paper.

Let cool for 10–15 minutes, then use cookie cutters to cut out leaf shapes from each color.

Arrange on a tray and serve, or store in an airtight container.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 18–24 treats depending on size.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooling and shaping time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the marshmallow mix for a fall flavor.

Use colored candy melts instead of food dye for deeper hues.

Drizzle with white chocolate for extra flair.

Press mini candy eyes or fall sprinkles on top for decoration.

Create marbled colors by gently swirling two colors together.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Avoid refrigerating to keep the texture soft.
Do not reheat, as marshmallows may harden or melt unevenly.

FAQs

Can I use mini marshmallows?

Yes, they melt even faster—just use the same total amount by weight.

Do I need special cookie cutters?

Leaf-shaped cutters are best, but any seasonal shape will work.

Can I use store-brand cereal?

Yes, as long as it’s crispy rice cereal, it works well.

How do I keep the treats from sticking?

Use buttered hands or wax paper and grease cookie cutters with spray.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, up to 2 days in advance—store airtight.

Can I add mix-ins?

Stick to soft additions like mini chocolate chips or fall sprinkles.

Are these treats gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cereal and check all labels to confirm.

Can I make these without food coloring?

Yes, they’ll still taste great—just skip the color step.

How do I make them softer?

Use fresh marshmallows and don’t overcook the butter mixture.

What if I don’t have cookie cutters?

Cut into squares and decorate with frosting or sprinkles instead.

Conclusion

Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats are a creative, colorful way to celebrate autumn with a nostalgic snack. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for getting kids involved in the kitchen or adding a seasonal touch to any dessert table.

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