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Easy Halloween Rice Krispie Ghost Treats in 20 Minutes

Easy Halloween Rice Krispie Ghost Treats - featured image

Quick and adorable no-bake Halloween treats made with Rice Krispies, marshmallows, and candy eyes. Perfect for last-minute parties or bake sales, these ghost-shaped treats are ready in just 20 minutes with only 4 simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • 1 package (10 oz) regular marshmallows
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Candy eyes (small round, about 1/4 inch diameter)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • Pinch of salt (optional)
  • Orange food coloring (optional)
  • White candy melts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep your workspace: Line a large sheet pan or countertop with parchment paper. Lightly grease your hands, a rubber spatula, and the inside of a large pot or microwave-safe bowl with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Melt the butter: In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t burn. If using the microwave, melt the butter in a large bowl for about 30 seconds.
  3. Add the marshmallows: Pour the entire 10-ounce bag of marshmallows into the pot with the melted butter. Stir constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth (about 3-4 minutes on stovetop or 1-2 minutes in microwave, stirring every 30 seconds). If using vanilla extract, stir it in now.
  4. Remove from heat and add the cereal: Take the pot off the heat immediately. Pour in 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal all at once. Stir gently but thoroughly until all the cereal is coated in the marshmallow mixture, using a folding motion to keep the cereal intact.
  5. Let it cool slightly: Let the mixture sit in the pot for 2-3 minutes until it’s cool enough to handle but still warm.
  6. Shape the ghosts: Dip your hands in a small bowl of water (shake off excess). Grab a handful of mixture (golf ball to tennis ball size). Roll gently into a ball, then slightly elongate into an oval or teardrop shape. Pinch the top to create a slight peak for the ghost’s head. Place on parchment paper. Repeat with remaining mixture (makes about 12-15 medium ghosts).
  7. Add the eyes: While the treats are still slightly warm and soft, press two candy eyes into each ghost near the top. If the mixture has cooled too much, dip the back of each candy eye in a tiny bit of melted marshmallow mixture before pressing it on.
  8. Let them set completely: Allow the ghosts to cool and set for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
  9. Optional decoration: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the tops or dust with powdered sugar for a spooky effect.

Notes

Keep a small bowl of water nearby and dip your hands frequently to prevent sticking. Work quickly as the mixture sets fast. For best results, use fresh Rice Krispies cereal and Jet-Puffed marshmallows. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Do not refrigerate. Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween treats, Rice Krispie treats, ghost treats, no-bake desserts, easy Halloween recipes, kid-friendly Halloween, 20-minute recipe