These Shamrock Green Rice Krispie treat squares are one of those recipes that just works every single time, especially for St Patrick’s Day parties, school events, or leprechaun-themed fun at home. They are soft, chewy, brightly colored, and incredibly easy to make, which makes them perfect for kids and busy parents alike.
You can keep them classic and simple or dress them up with sprinkles, chocolate coins, or fun shamrock shapes.
Because they do not require baking and set quickly, these treats are ideal when you need something festive at the last minute. Little hands love holding them, cutting shapes is half the fun, and they almost always disappear first from the party table.
Ingredients For Shamrock Green Rice Krispie
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Green food coloring or green gel coloring
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Green sprinkles, sanding sugar, or mini chocolate coins (optional topping)
Equipment Needed
- Large saucepan or pot
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- 9 x 9 inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper or nonstick spray
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Shamrock Green Rice Krispie Treat Squares
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line a square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray. This helps the treats lift out easily and makes cutting much simpler later.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
Place the butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Once melted, add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth. Keep the heat low to prevent scorching and stiff treats.
Step 3: Add Coloring and Flavor
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add green food coloring or green gel a little at a time, stirring until you reach a bright, even green. Stir in the vanilla extract if using.
Step 4: Mix in the Cereal
Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the marshmallow mixture. Gently fold until all the cereal is evenly coated. Work quickly while the mixture is warm and easy to handle.
Step 5: Press Into the Pan
Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Lightly grease your hands or a spatula and gently press the mixture into an even layer. Press just enough to level the surface without packing it down too firmly.
Step 6: Shape the Treats
Let the mixture rest for 2 to 3 minutes, just until it begins to set but is still soft. Lightly grease a shamrock cookie cutter and press shapes directly into the pan, or leave it uncut if making squares.
Step 7: Decorate and Set
While the treats are still slightly warm, add green sprinkles, a drizzle of white chocolate or gently press mini chocolate onto the surface.
Once decorated, allow the treats to cool and set at room temperature for around 1 hour before lifting, cutting, or serving.
Timing Overview
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 5 minutes
- Chill time: 1 hour
- Total time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Calories (Approximate)
- Per square (based on 12 servings): 160 to 180 calories
Calories may vary depending on portion size and added toppings.
Mixing Instructions Tips
- Always melt marshmallows on low heat to avoid a stiff texture.
- Add food coloring after melting so the color blends evenly.
- Fold the cereal gently to keep the treats light and chewy.
- Press lightly into the pan instead of packing it down firmly.
Fun Variations
- Add green M&Ms or white chocolate chips after mixing in the cereal.
- Drizzle melted white chocolate over the top once set.
- Mix in lucky-themed sprinkles for extra color and crunch.
- Cut into shamrock shapes for St Patrick’s Day parties.
Storage Instructions
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Avoid refrigeration for long-term storage, as it can dry them out.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they are best made the day before or the morning of your event for the freshest texture.
What is the best green food coloring to use?
Gel food coloring gives the brightest color with the smallest amount, but liquid food coloring works well too.
Can kids help make this recipe?
Absolutely. Kids can help measure cereal, stir with supervision, add coloring, and decorate the tops.
Why are my Rice Krispie treats hard?
Overheating the marshmallows or pressing the mixture too firmly into the pan can cause hard treats.
Can I use marshmallow fluff instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, about 7 ounces of marshmallow fluff can be used, though the texture will be slightly softer.
Recipe Card
Green St. Patrick’s Day Rice Krispie Treat Shamrocks
Description
Bright green, soft, and chewy Rice Krispie treat squares that are perfect for St Patrick’s Day parties, school treats, or leprechaun-themed celebrations. These are quick to make, easy for kids to hold, and always disappear fast.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Line a 9 x 9 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This makes lifting and cutting much easier later.
-
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly until smooth and fully melted. Keep the heat low so everything stays soft and stretchy.
-
Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the green food coloring a little at a time until you reach a bright green color. Mix in the vanilla if using.
-
Add the Rice Krispies cereal and gently fold everything together until evenly coated. Work quickly while the mixture is still warm.
-
Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan and gently press it into an even layer using lightly greased hands or a spatula. Do not pack it down too firmly.
-
Let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes, then press shamrock cutters into the mixture if using. Add sprinkles or gently press chocolate coins on top.
-
Let the treats cool and set at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before lifting out and cutting into squares or shapes.
