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Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats Shaped Like Jack-o'-Lanterns

This recipe transforms classic crispy rice treats by adding pumpkin spice flavor and shaping them into small jack-o'-lanterns. The mixture is melted and combined, then molded into themed shapes that have a chewy, crispy texture and a festive appearance. The result is a fun, seasonal treat perfect for Halloween celebrations.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 10 cups miniature marshmallows or large marshmallows halved
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice or pumpkin spice blend
  • 6 cups rice cereal such as Rice Krispies
  • orange food coloring as needed orange food coloring optional, for vibrant color

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Stirring spoon
  • Silicone spatula
  • Mini pumpkin-shaped cookie cutter or molds
  • Wax paper or parchment paper

Method
 

  1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat, listening for a gentle sizzling sound, until fully melted and bubbling slightly.
  2. Add the marshmallows to the melted butter and stir constantly with a silicone spatula until completely melted and smooth, creating a glossy, sticky mixture with a sweet aroma.
  3. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the pumpkin pie spice and a few drops of orange food coloring to achieve a vibrant, pumpkin-like hue.
  4. Gradually add the rice cereal to the marshmallow mixture, gently folding with a spatula until evenly coated and sticky, forming a dense dough.
  5. Once the mixture is uniform and still warm, transfer it onto a sheet of wax paper and let it cool slightly for about 2 minutes, making it easier to shape.
  6. With lightly greased hands or using a mini pumpkin-shaped cookie cutter, press the mixture into small jack-o'-lantern shapes or molds, pressing gently to shape and smooth the surface.
  7. Place the shaped treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and allow them to set at room temperature for about 20 minutes, until they firm up.
  8. Optionally, use small edible markers or melted chocolate to add faces or details to each jack-o'-lantern for a festive look.
  9. Once decorated and set, serve the pumpkin-shaped rice Krispie treats as a fun Halloween snack or centerpiece.

Notes

For easier shaping, slightly dampen hands or use molds coated with a thin layer of non-stick spray. Adding more or less food coloring can adjust the vibrancy of the final treats.