Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats: The Ultimate No-Bake Holiday Dessert

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

When the holiday season rolls around, there’s something magical about the smell of gingerbread spices filling the kitchen. Cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and molasses instantly signal warmth, celebration, and nostalgia. Now imagine capturing all those cozy flavors in a dessert that takes minutes, requires no oven, and delivers maximum festive impact. That’s exactly what Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats bring to your holiday table.

These no-bake treats combine the beloved crunch of classic Rice Krispie squares with rich molasses and warm gingerbread spices, transforming a childhood favorite into a Christmas-worthy dessert. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, filling cookie boxes, or looking for a quick dessert to make with kids, this recipe checks every box.

Unlike traditional gingerbread cookies that require chilling, rolling, cutting, and baking, these Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats come together in one pot and set up beautifully in under an hour. They’re soft, chewy, lightly spiced, and perfectly sweet, with just enough holiday flair to stand out on a dessert table.

Why You’ll Love These Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats

There are countless holiday desserts out there, but this one has a few standout advantages:

  • No baking required, perfect for busy holiday schedules
  • Beginner-friendly, even for first-time cooks
  • Kid-approved, great for family baking days
  • Budget-friendly, using pantry staples
  • Customizable, with toppings, drizzles, or mix-ins

They also store well, travel easily, and look stunning when dressed up with white chocolate drizzle or festive sprinkles.

The Gingerbread Twist on a Classic Treat

Classic Rice Krispie treats rely on butter, marshmallows, and cereal. The gingerbread version builds on that foundation by adding molasses and warming spices. Molasses is the key ingredient here—it delivers that unmistakable gingerbread depth without overpowering sweetness.

The spices work together harmoniously:

  • Ginger adds warmth and gentle heat
  • Cinnamon brings sweetness and balance
  • Nutmeg adds subtle earthiness
  • Cloves deliver bold holiday aroma

Together, they transform a simple no-bake bar into a festive showstopper.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Unsalted butter
  • Mini marshmallows
  • Molasses
  • Vanilla extract
  • Ground ginger
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Ground nutmeg
  • Ground cloves
  • Rice Krispies cereal
  • White chocolate chips (optional topping)

These ingredients are easy to find year-round, making this recipe perfect not just for Christmas but for any winter gathering.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pan
    Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Set aside.
  2. Melt the butter
    In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter gently.
  3. Add marshmallows and molasses
    Stir in the marshmallows and molasses, cooking over low heat until completely melted and smooth.
  4. Add spices and vanilla
    Remove from heat and quickly stir in vanilla extract, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
  5. Fold in cereal
    Add Rice Krispies cereal and gently fold until evenly coated.
  6. Press into pan
    Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and gently press it down using a buttered spatula or parchment paper.
  7. Optional topping
    Melt white chocolate and drizzle over the top. Add festive sprinkles if desired.
  8. Set and slice
    Let set for 30 minutes, then slice into squares and serve.

Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats

Soft and chewy no-bake rice krispie treats infused with warm gingerbread spices and rich molasses.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 12 squares
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Autumn
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter
  • 10 oz mini marshmallows
  • 0.25 cup molasses
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 0.25 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 0.25 tsp ground cloves
  • 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • 0.5 cup white chocolate chips optional topping

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Spatula
  • 9×13 baking dish
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
  2. Melt butter in a large pot over low heat.
  3. Stir in marshmallows and molasses until fully melted and smooth.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and spices.
  5. Fold in Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.
  6. Press mixture gently into prepared pan.
  7. Drizzle with melted white chocolate if desired.
  8. Let set for 30 minutes, slice, and serve.

Notes

Do not over-press the mixture to keep treats soft and chewy.

Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats

  • Low heat is essential to avoid hard marshmallows
  • Don’t over-press the mixture or the treats will be dense
  • Use fresh marshmallows for the best texture
  • Adjust spice levels to your preference

Fun Variations

  • Chocolate Gingerbread Treats: Stir in mini chocolate chips
  • Peppermint Version: Add crushed candy canes on top
  • Glazed Gingerbread Bars: Drizzle with cream cheese icing
  • Vegan Option: Use vegan butter and marshmallows

Serving Suggestions

These Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats are perfect for:

  • Holiday dessert trays
  • Christmas parties
  • Classroom treats
  • Cookie exchanges
  • Edible gifts

Wrap individual squares in parchment and tie with twine for an adorable homemade gift.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days
  • Do not refrigerate, as this can make them hard
  • Freeze for up to 6 weeks if needed

A Festive Treat with Nostalgic Roots

Rice Krispie treats have been around for generations, but adding gingerbread flavor gives them a timeless holiday update. They capture the spirit of Christmas while keeping preparation stress-free.

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen, Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats are the answer.

Leave a Reply