Can I use regular-sized marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes, you can substitute regular marshmallows, but you'll need to adjust the quantity. Use about 5 regular marshmallows in place of each ½ cup of mini marshmallows. They may take slightly longer to melt, so watch them carefully in the microwave.

My treats turned out too hard. What went wrong?

Overly firm treats usually result from using too much cereal or cooking the marshmallow mixture too long. Make sure to measure your ingredients precisely and only heat the marshmallows until just melted. Also, avoid pressing the layers too firmly into the pan.

Can I make these without Peeps if they're not in season?

Absolutely! Regular marshmallows plus food coloring work perfectly as a substitute. Add 4-5 drops of gel food coloring to each batch of melted marshmallows to achieve similar vibrant colors.

How far in advance can I make these treats?

For best freshness, make these treats no more than a day before serving. However, they'll stay delicious for up to three days when stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container.

Vibrant Peeps Rice Krispie Squares Recipe

Description

Bright, colorful, and fun, these Peeps Rice Krispie Squares are a delightful twist on the classic treat. With layers of marshmallowy goodness in vibrant rainbow colors, this recipe is perfect for holidays, parties, or just a cheerful snack. The combination of Peeps, marshmallows, and Rice Krispies creates a chewy, sweet, and crispy treat that is both visually stunning and incredibly easy to make.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Green Layer

8 green Peeps
1/2 cup mini marshmallows
3 tablespoons salted butter (room temperature)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups Rice Krispies cereal

Yellow Layer

8 yellow Peeps
1/2 cup mini marshmallows
3 tablespoons salted butter (room temperature)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups Rice Krispies cereal

Blue Layer

8 blue Peeps
1/2 cup mini marshmallows
3 tablespoons salted butter (room temperature)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups Rice Krispies cereal

Pink Layer

8 pink Peeps
1/2 cup mini marshmallows
3 tablespoons salted butter (room temperature)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups Rice Krispies cereal

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Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:
Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with baking spray and set aside. Ensure all ingredients are prepped, as you will need to work quickly for each Peeps color batch.
Separate Colors:
Remove the Peeps from their lollipop sticks and sort them into four colors: green, yellow, blue, and pink. Place each color batch into separate microwave-safe mixing bowls.
Make the Green Layer:
In a microwave-safe bowl, add ½ cup mini marshmallows, 3 tablespoons butter, and 8 green Peeps. Microwave on high for 45 seconds to 1 minute. Add ½ teaspoon vanilla extract and stir until fully smooth. Fold in 2 cups of Rice Krispies cereal and combine until evenly coated.
Layer the Green:
Spread the green-colored Rice Krispie mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use your hands or a spatula to gently press it into a compact, even layer.
Repeat for Yellow Layer:
Following the same method, mix and prepare the yellow Peeps batch. Spread the yellow Rice Krispie mixture directly on top of the green layer and gently press it down to create a firm and even surface.
Repeat for Blue & Pink Layers:
Repeat the process for the blue and then the pink Peeps, layering each one on top of the previous layer. Gently press each layer to ensure the treats are packed tightly.
Chill:
Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the treats to cool and set fully before slicing.
Serve:
Remove the set Rice Krispie squares from the refrigerator, slice into 12 equal portions, and enjoy!

Notes

Use fresh Peeps and mini marshmallows for smoother and easier melting.
To deepen the colors of the layers, add 2–3 drops of liquid or gel food coloring during mixing.
Lightly wet your hands or spray them with cooking spray while pressing to prevent sticking.
For a slightly stickier texture, allow the treats to set on the counter for at least an hour if you skip refrigeration.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 280kcal
Sugar: 24g
Sodium: 155mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 25mg