Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats with Candy Pumpkins

Introduction

Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats with Candy Pumpkins are a cozy autumn twist on the classic marshmallow cereal bar. Soft, chewy, and flavored with warm pumpkin spice, these treats bring together the nostalgic crunch of Rice Krispies with the comforting flavors of fall. Topped or decorated with candy pumpkins, they’re not just tasty — they’re festive and fun, making them perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving dessert tables, or even as a quick fall snack.

They’re easy to make, no-bake, and come together in under 30 minutes — a guaranteed win for both kids and adults.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a simple upgrade to a childhood classic. The addition of pumpkin spice completely transforms Rice Krispie treats into something warm, seasonal, and special. They’re soft, gooey, and fragrant, and the candy pumpkins make them visually delightful, adding charm to any fall celebration.

It’s one of those recipes that looks impressive on the table but requires very little effort — which makes it perfect for busy holiday prep. Plus, they’re totally portable, making them great for school snacks, party trays, or gifting.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

• 🍁 Seasonal twist on a classic treat everyone loves.
• 👩‍🍳 No baking required — quick and beginner-friendly.
• 🎉 Festive and cute with candy pumpkin decorations.
• 🕒 Done in under 30 minutes.
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Kid-approved and crowd-pleasing!

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 12–16 bars (depending on cut size)
• Calories per Serving: ~180 kcal

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Dessert / Snack

Ingredients

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
• 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows (about 5 ½ cups)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Candy pumpkins (like Brach’s Mellowcreme Pumpkins) for topping

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Melt butter in a large pot.
2. Stir in marshmallows until smooth.
3. Add pumpkin spice, vanilla, and salt.
4. Mix in Rice Krispies cereal until coated.
5. Spread into a greased 9×13 pan.
6. Press gently and decorate with candy pumpkins.
7. Cool, cut, and serve.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows

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

Step 2: Add Flavor

• Stir in pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
• Mix well so the spice is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Coat the Cereal

• Remove the pot from heat.
• Gently fold in Rice Krispies cereal until all pieces are evenly coated with marshmallow mixture.

Step 4: Transfer and Press

• Grease or line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper.
• Spread the mixture evenly into the pan.
• Press lightly with a greased spatula (don’t press too hard or the treats will be dense).

Step 5: Decorate

• While still warm, gently press candy pumpkins on top so they stick.

Step 6: Cool and Cut

• Let cool for at least 30 minutes.
• Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.

How to Serve

• Serve on a festive platter for parties.
• Wrap individually in plastic wrap for lunchbox treats or gifting.
• Pair with warm apple cider, pumpkin spice latte, or hot cocoa for the perfect fall dessert moment.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Spray your spatula or hands with nonstick spray to make pressing easier.
• Don’t overheat marshmallows — they’ll get stiff and make the treats hard.
• Use fresh marshmallows for best gooey texture.
• If you want thicker bars, use an 8×8 dish instead of 9×13.

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the cooled bars.
• Salted Caramel: Swirl in caramel sauce before pressing into the pan.
• Mix-ins: Add white chocolate chips, candy corn, or crushed gingersnap cookies.
• Pumpkin Shape: Mold into pumpkin shapes instead of bars, then use green M&M’s for stems.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Can be frozen (without candy pumpkins) for up to 6 weeks. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large saucepan or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula (greased)
• 9×13 baking dish (or 8×8 for thicker bars)
• Parchment paper or nonstick spray

Conclusion

Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats with Candy Pumpkins are the ultimate fall-inspired twist on a classic dessert. They’re gooey, chewy, perfectly spiced, and topped with festive candy pumpkins that make them both fun and seasonal. Quick to make, easy to customize, and guaranteed to delight, they’re a must-have on any autumn or Halloween dessert table.