Rice Krispie Nests

These adorable Rice Krispie nests are a fun and festive treat perfect for Easter, spring parties, or any special occasion. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these crispy, chewy, and sweet nests are shaped into little bird nests and filled with candy eggs. They’re easy to make and a hit with kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fun and festive – Perfect for Easter and springtime celebrations.
• Easy to make – Requires only a few simple ingredients and minimal effort.
• Kid-friendly – A great treat for kids to help make and decorate.
• No baking required – Just mix, shape, and set!
• Customizable – Use different candies or decorations to match any theme.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rice Krispies cereal
• Mini marshmallows
• Butter
• Vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
• Cooking spray or butter (for greasing)
• Candy eggs (such as Mini Cadbury Eggs, jelly beans, or M&M’s)
• Shredded coconut (optional, for a nest-like effect)
• Chocolate drizzle (optional, for decoration)

Directions

1. Melt the marshmallow mixture – In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter. Add mini marshmallows and stir until fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract if using.
2. Mix with cereal – Add the Rice Krispies cereal and stir until evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.
3. Shape the nests – Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or butter. Spoon the mixture into each cup and use a greased spoon or fingers to press down and form a nest shape with an indentation in the center.
4. Let them set – Allow the nests to cool and firm up for about 30 minutes.
5. Decorate – Once set, remove the nests from the muffin tin and fill each with candy eggs. Optionally, sprinkle with shredded coconut or drizzle with melted chocolate for added decoration.
6. Enjoy! – Serve immediately or store for later.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 nests
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 5 minutes
• Total time: 15 minutes + 30 minutes to set

Variations

• Chocolate version – Mix in melted chocolate or cocoa powder for a chocolaty twist.
• Peanut butter nests – Add a few tablespoons of peanut butter to the marshmallow mixture for a nutty flavor.
• Coconut nests – Toss the cereal in toasted coconut before forming the nests.
• Gluten-free option – Use certified gluten-free rice cereal.
• Different fillings – Try pastel M&M’s, gumdrops, or even mini marshmallow chicks instead of candy eggs.

Storage/Reheating

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to a week, but allow to come to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may become too hard.

FAQs

Can I make these in advance?

Yes! You can make them 1-2 days ahead and store them in an airtight container.

How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands?

Lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray before shaping the nests.

Can I use store-bought Rice Krispie treats instead?

Yes! Warm them slightly to make them pliable, then reshape them into nests.

What can I use instead of a muffin tin?

Shape the nests by hand or use small bowls lined with parchment paper.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free butter and marshmallows.

What’s the best way to shape the nests?

Use the back of a greased spoon or your fingers to press down in the center.

Can I add food coloring?

Yes! Add a few drops of food coloring to the melted marshmallow mixture for colorful nests.

How long do these take to set?

They usually set within 30 minutes at room temperature.

Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini ones?

Yes! Just be sure to melt them evenly and stir well.

Are these safe for kids to make?

Yes! With adult supervision for melting, kids can easily help shape and decorate the nests.

Conclusion

Rice Krispie nests are a fun, festive, and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for Easter and springtime celebrations. With their crunchy texture, sweet marshmallow coating, and colorful candy eggs, these nests are a delightful addition to any dessert table. Try this recipe today and enjoy a creative, no-bake treat that everyone will love!

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