As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, I find myself drawn to flavors that evoke warmth and nostalgia. That’s when I stumbled upon a delightful twist on a classic childhood favorite: Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats. Imagine sinking your teeth into a chewy, marshmallow-laden treat that tastes just like a slice of pumpkin pie! The aroma of browned butter and pumpkin spice fills your kitchen, transporting you straight to a cozy autumn afternoon.
With each bite, you’re met with a perfect balance of flavors—warm, nutty, and sweet, all topped off with a light dollop of whipped cream. Best of all, these treats are not just a feast for your taste buds; they’re gluten-free and require no baking, making them an easy addition to your festive gatherings. Whether you’re sharing them for Thanksgiving or indulging at a casual get-together, these Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats will undoubtedly impress your friends and family. So grab your ingredients, and let me guide you through this fun and delicious recipe that’s as simple to make as it is irresistible!
Why are Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This recipe requires no baking, making it a hassle-free treat for busy fall days.
Delicious Twist: Combining autumn flavors, these treats delight with a nostalgic taste of pumpkin pie.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, everyone will love the unique blend of chewy, crunchy, and creamy textures.
Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences, like using vegan marshmallows!
Gluten-Free: Enjoy a festive dessert that’s safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Indulge in the season’s spirit with these delightful treats that will leave you craving more!
Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats Ingredients
• A delightful mix for your festive dessert.
For the Base Layer
- Rice Cereal – Provides the essential structure for these nostalgic treats.
- Marshmallows – Adds sweetness and chewiness; using extra marshmallows ensures a soft texture.
- Browned Butter – Brings a rich, nutty flavor; substitution with regular butter lacks the same aroma.
For the Pumpkin Filling
- Pumpkin Spice – This classic spice mix introduces the seasonal flavor that defines the treats.
- Food Coloring – Use for visual appeal; vibrant layers mimic the look of traditional pumpkin pie.
For Serving
- Whipped Cream – Adds a light, airy texture; apply just before serving to keep it fresh and fluffy.
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats
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Prepare Base Layer: In a medium pot, melt the butter over medium heat until it turns brown and fragrant. Stir in the marshmallows and mix until completely melted. Add the rice cereal and combine until every piece is well-coated. Firmly press the mixture into a greased 9×9 inch pan to create the base layer.
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Make Pumpkin Filling Layer: In the same pot, melt another batch of marshmallows, adding pumpkin spice and food coloring as it melts. Once smooth, stir in more rice cereal until coated, then spread this mixture evenly over the base layer.
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Cool and Set: Allow the combined layers to cool completely at room temperature, which usually takes about an hour. This step is crucial for ensuring your treats hold their shape once cut.
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Serve: Just before serving, cut into squares and top each piece with a dollop of fresh whipped cream to enhance the creamy texture and festive appeal.
Optional: Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats
Room Temperature: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid including whipped cream until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
Fridge: If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, you can refrigerate the treats. Ensure they’re in an airtight container and consume within 5 days for the best taste.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the uncut, layered treats wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before cutting.
Reheating: These treats are best enjoyed at room temperature. If chilled or frozen, allow them to come to room temp before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats
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Perfect Browned Butter: Watch closely as you brown the butter; if it burns, it can ruin the warm, nutty flavor essential for the Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats.
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Cooling Layers: Let each layer cool completely before stacking to ensure they set properly and maintain a delightful texture.
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Whipped Cream Timing: To avoid sogginess, only top individual squares with whipped cream right before serving.
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Treat Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, but remember to keep whipped cream separate until serving.
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Flavor Customization: Feel free to swap pumpkin spice for cinnamon or nutmeg to suit your taste, adding a personal touch to these festive treats!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats?
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, accompany these delightful treats with complementary flavors and textures that bring your fall gatherings to life.
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Spiced Apple Cider: A warm and comforting drink, the spices in the cider enhance the pumpkin flavor, creating a cozy pairing.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coolness of vanilla ice cream perfectly contrasts the chewy texture of the treats, offering a delightful contrast in temperature.
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Chai Tea: Rich and aromatic, chai tea provides a warming spice that harmonizes beautifully with the pumpkin flavor, making it a perfect afternoon snack option.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel over the treats adds a rich sweetness that complements the pumpkin spice, elevating the dessert experience.
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Pecan Pie Bars: These bars introduce a crunchy texture and buttery sweetness, providing a pleasing variety to your dessert table.
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Roasted Chestnuts: Earthy and nutty, roasted chestnuts add a seasonal crunch that pairs well with the soft, chewy Rice Krispie treats, creating a satisfying medley of flavors.
Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats Variations
Feel free to experiment and make these delightful treats your own with these tasty twists!
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Spice Swap: Replace pumpkin spice with cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, different flavor profile. Perfect for those who enjoy traditional fall spices!
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Vegan Delight: Consider using coconut oil instead of butter and vegan marshmallows for a delectable dairy-free version. It’s a guilt-free treat everyone can enjoy!
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Crunch Factor: Add chopped nuts or toasted pumpkin seeds into the mixture for an exciting crunch. This will give your treats a lovely texture contrast and a nutty flavor.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top of the cooled treats for a decadent touch. The chocolate pairs beautifully with pumpkin, enhancing the overall treat experience.
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Caramel Surprise: Fold in some caramel bits before packing down the base layer for a sweet, gooey surprise in every bite. Everyone will love this luscious addition!
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins to add a fruity, chewy texture that complements the pumpkin flavor wonderfully. A delightful twist that adds some chew!
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Pumpkin Puree Boost: Increase the pumpkin flavor by adding a bit of canned pumpkin puree to the marshmallow mixture. It brings extra moisture and richness, enhancing the overall experience.
Let your creativity soar and enjoy these Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats in new and exciting ways!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the base and pumpkin filling layers up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps of making the base layer and the pumpkin filling as instructed, then allow them to cool completely before wrapping the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating. To maintain quality, keep them stored in an airtight container, ensuring they won’t dry out. When you’re ready to serve, simply cut them into squares and top with freshly whipped cream just before enjoying for that fluffy finish. This makes for a seamless dessert experience that will impress your guests with minimal effort!
Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right marshmallows for my Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats?
For the best results, I recommend using fresh, soft mini marshmallows. The fresh marshmallows will melt smoothly and provide that delightful chewiness. Avoid marshmallows that are stale or hard, as they won’t melt properly and can compromise the texture.
What’s the best way to store Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just remember, for optimal freshness, keep the whipped cream separate until you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats for later?
Absolutely! You can freeze uncut, layered treats by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight container. They’ll last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge before cutting them into squares.
What should I do if my Rice Krispie Treats are too gooey?
If you find your treats are too gooey or sticky, it may be due to using too much butter or marshmallows. To troubleshoot, you can add a small amount of additional rice cereal to balance things out. Mix it in well until the texture feels right, but be cautious not to overdo it!
Are Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats safe for those with gluten sensitivities?
Yes! Using gluten-free Rice Cereal makes these treats a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Make sure to double-check any other ingredients you use, like marshmallows and whipped cream, to confirm they are also gluten-free.
Can I modify the recipe to make it vegan?
Absolutely! To make these Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats vegan, simply replace the butter with coconut oil and use vegan marshmallows. The treats will still be delicious and you’ll enjoy the same fun, festive flavors without any animal products!
Delight in Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats for Fall Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium pot, melt the butter over medium heat until it turns brown and fragrant. Stir in the marshmallows and mix until completely melted. Add the rice cereal and combine until every piece is well-coated. Firmly press the mixture into a greased 9x9 inch pan to create the base layer.
- In the same pot, melt another batch of marshmallows, adding pumpkin spice and food coloring as it melts. Once smooth, stir in more rice cereal until coated, then spread this mixture evenly over the base layer.
- Allow the combined layers to cool completely at room temperature, which usually takes about an hour.
- Just before serving, cut into squares and top each piece with a dollop of fresh whipped cream.