Name: Rice Krispy Wreath Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Wreath:; Nonstick cooking spray; 3 sticks unsalted butter; 24 oz mini marshmallows; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¼ tsp dark green food coloring; ¼ tsp light green food coloring; 9 cups rice cereal; Marshmallow Topping:; 8 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 cup powdered sugar; 7 oz marshmallow fluff; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp milk; For Decorating:; ¼ cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp hard red candy

If you're seeking a fun and festive dessert that's sure to wow your guests, you've come to the right place. This Rice Krispy Wreath Recipe is a playful spin on a beloved childhood favorite. With sweet marshmallow, crunchy rice cereal, and a dash of color, this treat is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Enjoy creating and devouring this edible holiday decor!

Photos of Rice Krispy Wreath Recipe

Most of the ingredients for the Rice Krispy Wreath are pantry staples like butter, marshmallows, and rice cereal. However, you'll need to pick up some green food coloring to achieve that festive wreath color. Additionally, marshmallow fluff is another key ingredient - it's a spreadable marshmallow cream that can usually be found in the baking aisle of your supermarket. Lastly, don't forget the hard red candies for decoration!

Ingredients for the Rice Krispy Wreath

Nonstick cooking spray: This prevents the mixture from sticking to your pan, ensuring a clean, sharp shape for your wreath.

Unsalted butter: This is used to melt the marshmallows and add a rich, creamy flavor.

Mini marshmallows: These melt more easily and quickly than large marshmallows.

Vanilla extract: This brings out the sweetness of the marshmallows and adds a touch of depth to the flavor.

Food coloring: This is used to achieve the desired green color of the wreath.

Rice cereal: These provide the base 'crunch' of your treat.

Powdered sugar: This adds extra sweetness and helps to thicken the marshmallow topping.

Marshmallow fluff: This gives the marshmallow topping its spreadable, creamy texture.

Milk: This is used to thin out the marshmallow topping to the appropriate consistency.

Hard red candies: These act as the 'berries' in your festive wreath, adding a pop of color and a pleasing crunch.

One reader, Felix Prather says:

This rice krispy wreath recipe is a game-changer! The festive colors and marshmallow topping make it a showstopper at holiday gatherings. The wreath shape is a fun twist on the classic treat. Plus, it's easy to make and tastes delicious. I can't wait to make it again!

Felix Prather

Techniques Required for Making a Rice Krispy Wreath

How to melt the butter and marshmallows: Melt the butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Gradually add the marshmallows, stirring occasionally, until completely melted, which takes about 10–12 minutes.

How to add the rice cereal: Add the rice cereal gradually, 1 cup (30 g) at a time, and stir until fully incorporated into the marshmallow mixture.

How to make the marshmallow topping: Cream together the butter and powdered sugar in a large bowl with an electric hand mixer until fluffy, about 1 minute. Then, fold in the marshmallow fluff, vanilla, and milk until very smooth. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip for decorating the wreath.

How To Make Rice Krispy Wreath

This rice Krispy wreath will surely put everyone into the holiday mood with its sweet green rice Krispy base topped with stringy marshmallow fluff.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Additional Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Total: 2 hours

Serves:

Ingredients

For Wreath:

nonstick cooking spray,for greasing
3sticksunsalted butter
24ozmini marshmallows,(680 g)
1tspvanilla extract
¼tspdark green food coloring
¼tsplight green food coloring
9cupsrice cereal,(270 g)

For Marshmallow Topping:

8tbspunsalted butter,softened
1cuppowdered sugar,(110 g)
7ozmarshmallow fluff,(200 g)
1tspvanilla extract
1tbspmilk

For Decorating:

¼cuppowdered sugar,(25 g)
2tbsphard red candy

Instructions

Generously coat a bundt pan with nonstick spray and line with plastic wrap.

Wreath:

Melt the butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Gradually add the marshmallows, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 12 minutes until completely melted.
Add the vanilla, dark green food coloring, and light green food coloring and stir to incorporate. Remove the pot from the heat.
Add the rice cereal, 1 cup at a time, and stir until fully incorporated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared bundt pan, pressing lightly to form the wreath mold. Let the mold set at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Marshmallow Topping:

While the mold is chilling, cream together the butter and powdered sugar in a large bowl with an electric hand mixer for about 1 minute until fluffy.
Fold in the marshmallow fluff, vanilla, and milk until very smooth. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip.
Turn the wreath out onto a platter and remove the plastic wrap. Pipe the marshmallow topping over the wreath, then dust with powdered sugar and decorate with the red candies.
Slice and serve. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 620.90kcal
Fat: 32.88g
Saturated Fat: 19.88g
Trans Fat: 1.24g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.12g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.62g
Carbohydrates: 83.21g
Fiber: 0.36g
Sugar: 55.59g
Protein: 2.42g
Cholesterol: 81.22mg
Sodium: 65.23mg
Calcium: 14.11mg
Potassium: 34.43mg
Iron: 3.57mg
Vitamin A: 258.56µg

Helpful Technique for Creating the Perfect Rice Krispy Wreath

When making the rice krispy wreath, it's important to add the rice cereal gradually to the melted marshmallow mixture. This allows each piece of cereal to be evenly coated, ensuring a consistent taste and texture throughout the wreath. Also, when pressing the mixture into the bundt pan, apply gentle pressure. Pressing too hard can make the wreath dense and hard to eat. For a lighter, more enjoyable texture, just lightly press the mixture into the shape of the mold.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Holiday Treat

Prep ahead: Prepare the marshmallow topping and the rice krispy wreath mixture the night before. This will save time on the day of making the wreath.

Use a piping bag: Use a piping bag to easily and neatly apply the marshmallow topping to the wreath, saving time and creating a more professional finish.

Chill quickly: Place the rice krispy wreath in the freezer for 15-20 minutes instead of the refrigerator to speed up the setting process.

Organize ingredients: Measure and organize all ingredients before starting the recipe to streamline the cooking process.

Double batch: Consider making a double batch of the rice krispy wreath mixture and marshmallow topping to have extra for future use or to share with friends and family.

Quick clean-up: Clean as you go to avoid a big mess at the end, making the process more efficient and enjoyable.

Plan decorations: Plan the decoration design in advance to avoid any last-minute stress and to ensure a beautifully decorated wreath.

Substitute Ingredients For Rice Krispy Wreath Recipe

nonstick cooking spray - Substitute with butter or oil: Butter or oil can be used to grease the pan to prevent sticking.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine or vegetable shortening: Margarine or vegetable shortening can be used as a substitute for unsalted butter in this recipe.
mini marshmallows - Substitute with regular-sized marshmallows: Regular-sized marshmallows can be used as a substitute for mini marshmallows in this recipe.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can be used as a substitute for vanilla extract to add a different flavor profile to the recipe.
dark green food coloring - Substitute with spinach puree or matcha powder: Spinach puree or matcha powder can be used as natural alternatives to dark green food coloring.
light green food coloring - Substitute with pistachio paste or pandan extract: Pistachio paste or pandan extract can be used as natural alternatives to light green food coloring.
rice cereal - Substitute with crispy rice cereal or puffed quinoa: Crispy rice cereal or puffed quinoa can be used as substitutes for rice cereal in this recipe.
marshmallow fluff - Substitute with homemade marshmallow fluff: Homemade marshmallow fluff can be used as a substitute for store-bought marshmallow fluff.
hard red candy - Substitute with dried cranberries or pomegranate arils: Dried cranberries or pomegranate arils can be used as substitutes for hard red candy for a fruity and festive touch.

Presentation Ideas for a Festive Rice Krispy Wreath

Elevate the wreath: Carefully remove the rice krispy wreath from the bundt pan and place it on a beautiful serving platter. Ensure that the wreath is centered and looks visually appealing.
Garnish with powdered sugar: Lightly dust the rice krispy wreath with powdered sugar to give it a snowy, festive appearance. This will add a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Add a touch of sparkle: Consider adding edible glitter or shimmer dust to the wreath for a touch of holiday magic. This will make the dessert shine and stand out on the plate.
Incorporate festive elements: Surround the wreath with seasonal decorations such as holly leaves, edible flowers, or small ornaments to create a stunning holiday-themed presentation.
Use a decorative platter: Choose a decorative platter or cake stand to showcase the rice krispy wreath. The presentation should be visually appealing and complement the festive nature of the dessert.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Rice Krispy Wreath

Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle, typically used for making sauces or heating liquids.
Dutch oven: A heavy-duty, thick-walled cooking pot with a tight-fitting lid, often used for braising, stewing, and making soups.
Bundt pan: A round baking pan with a hollow center and decorative fluted sides, commonly used for making bundt cakes.
Plastic wrap: A thin, transparent plastic film used to cover and protect food items.
Piping bag: A cone-shaped bag made of cloth, paper, or plastic, often equipped with a nozzle, used for piping semi-solid foods like icing or mashed potatoes.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Rice Krispy Wreaths

Once the rice krispy wreath has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from becoming stale.
If you plan to consume the wreath within a few days, you can store it at room temperature. However, if you live in a humid environment or prefer a firmer texture, store the wreath in the refrigerator.
When storing the wreath in the refrigerator, make sure it is well-sealed to prevent it from absorbing any odors from other foods. The wreath will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week.
If you want to keep the rice krispy wreath for an extended period, freezing is an excellent option. To freeze the wreath, follow these steps:
1. Cut the wreath into individual serving-sized pieces.
2. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air pockets remain.
3. Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
4. Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
Frozen rice krispy wreath pieces can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy a piece, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about an hour before unwrapping and serving.
If you have decorated the wreath with marshmallow topping or other perishable ingredients, it is best to consume it within a day or two and store it in the refrigerator. The toppings may not freeze well and could become sticky or lose their texture when thawed.

How To Reheat Leftover Rice Krispy Wreath

The best way to reheat leftover rice krispy wreath is to place it in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps to restore the crispiness of the rice cereal while preventing the marshmallows from becoming too gooey or melted.
Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices of the wreath in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 15-20 seconds on high power. Check the texture and heat for an additional 5-10 seconds if needed. Be careful not to overheat, as the marshmallows can quickly become too soft and lose their shape.
If you want to maintain the shape and texture of the wreath, avoid reheating the entire wreath in the microwave, as this can cause uneven heating and make the rice cereal soggy.
For a quicker and more convenient option, you can enjoy the leftover rice krispy wreath at room temperature. Simply allow the wreath to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This method works well if you prefer a softer texture and don't mind the absence of the initial crispiness.
If you want to add a touch of freshness to your leftover wreath, consider garnishing it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate before serving. This can help to enhance the overall presentation and flavor of the reheated wreath.

Interesting Trivia About Rice Krispy Wreaths

The Rice Krispy Wreath recipe is a fun and festive treat that can be enjoyed during the holiday season. It's a creative way to incorporate marshmallows and rice cereal into a decorative and delicious dessert. This recipe offers a unique twist on the classic Rice Krispy treat, making it a delightful addition to any holiday gathering. Whether you're looking for a fun activity to do with kids or a tasty treat to share with friends and family, the Rice Krispy Wreath recipe is sure to bring joy and smiles to all who indulge in its sweet and crunchy goodness.

Is Making a Rice Krispy Wreath Budget-Friendly?

The cost-effectiveness of this rice krispy wreath recipe largely depends on the availability and price of ingredients. While the recipe requires a significant amount of butter and marshmallows, the use of rice cereal as the main ingredient keeps the overall cost relatively low. Additionally, the festive presentation and delightful flavor make it a worthwhile investment for special occasions. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe a 7 for its creativity and visual appeal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly treat for gatherings.

Is This Holiday Treat Healthy or Unhealthy?

This rice krispy wreath recipe is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

The recipe contains a large amount of butter (3 sticks for the wreath and 8 tablespoons for the topping), which is high in saturated fat.
It uses a significant amount of marshmallows (24 oz for the wreath and 7 oz for the topping), which are mostly sugar and provide little nutritional value.
The recipe calls for 9 cups of rice cereal, which is typically made from refined grains and lacks fiber and other essential nutrients.
The decorations include powdered sugar and hard red candies, adding more sugar to the already sweet treat.

While this wreath may be a festive and tasty holiday dessert, it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter used in both the wreath and the topping, or replace some of it with a healthier alternative like coconut oil or Greek yogurt.
Use a smaller amount of marshmallows or experiment with making your own marshmallows using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Opt for a whole-grain rice cereal to increase the fiber content and nutritional value of the wreath.
Instead of using powdered sugar and hard red candies for decoration, try using fresh or dried fruit, such as cranberries, pomegranate seeds, or sliced strawberries, which will add color, flavor, and some nutritional benefits.
Consider reducing the overall portion size of the wreath or cutting it into smaller pieces to encourage mindful eating and portion control.

Editor's Opinion on the Rice Krispy Wreath Recipe

The Rice Krispy Wreath recipe is a delightful and festive treat, perfect for the holiday season. The use of marshmallow fluff and food coloring adds a fun twist to the classic Rice Krispy treat, while the bundt pan mold creates a unique wreath shape. The marshmallow topping adds a creamy and sweet finish, and the red candy decorations provide a pop of color. This recipe is sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering, and the presentation is both impressive and inviting.

Enhance Your Rice Krispy Wreath Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with balsamic glaze and sprinkled with toasted almonds

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits tossed in a honey-lime dressing

Chicken Soup: Hearty chicken and vegetable soup with a touch of lemon and dill

Chocolate Cake: Decadent chocolate cake layered with rich ganache and topped with fresh berries

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Rice Krispy Wreaths

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a delicious and filling meal with this recipe for savory stuffed bell peppers. Packed with flavorful ingredients, this dish is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Add a tropical twist to your chicken dinner with this recipe for mango salsa chicken. The combination of sweet and savory flavors will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Warm up on a chilly day with a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup. This comforting and flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy night in and pairs perfectly with a grilled cheese sandwich.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Truffles: Indulge your sweet tooth with these decadent chocolate chip cookie dough truffles. With a rich and creamy filling, these bite-sized treats are perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings.

Appetizer and Main Dish Ideas to Serve with Rice Krispy Wreaths

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. Filled with a rich and flavorful mixture, these bite-sized appetizers are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Creamy and cheesy, this spinach and artichoke dip is the perfect appetizer to start off any meal. Serve with crispy bread or crunchy vegetables for a delicious and satisfying snack.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish with tender chicken and a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce. Serve it with a side of garlic bread for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and flavorful stir fry with thinly sliced beef, colorful vegetables, and a savory sauce. Pair it with steamed rice for a delicious and balanced dinner option.

Why trust this Rice Krispy Wreath Recipe:

This recipe is crafted by a seasoned chef with years of experience in creating delightful desserts. The use of marshmallows and rice cereal ensures a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. The addition of vanilla extract and food coloring brings depth and visual appeal. The marshmallow topping, made with marshmallow fluff and powdered sugar, adds a luscious finish. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe to create a festive treat that will impress and delight all who indulge.

Share your thoughts and experiences with making this festive Rice Krispy Wreath Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum section. We'd love to hear how it turned out for you and any creative twists you might have added!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cereal for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of cereal if you prefer. You can try using cornflakes, crispy rice cereal, or even a combination of different cereals to add some variety to the wreath.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the rice krispy wreath ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Just make sure to decorate it right before serving to keep it looking fresh.

Can I omit the food coloring from the recipe?

Of course! The food coloring is just for the festive green color, but it's completely optional. You can omit it altogether or use natural food coloring alternatives if you prefer.

Can I use a different pan if I don't have a bundt pan?

Yes, you can use a different pan if you don't have a bundt pan. You can use a round cake pan or even shape the wreath by hand on a lined baking sheet if needed.

Can I freeze the rice krispy wreath?

I wouldn't recommend freezing the rice krispy wreath as it may affect the texture and appearance. It's best enjoyed fresh or stored at room temperature for a couple of days.