Looking for easy Halloween treats that are just as fun to make as they are to eat? These Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats are your answer! With their cute pumpkin shape, marshmallow gooeyness, and festive fall flair, they make the perfect dessert or party snack for kids and adults alike. No baking, no mess – just pure Halloween magic!
Ingredients for Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats
To make approximately 12 pumpkin-shaped Rice Krispie treats, you will need:
Dry Ingredients:
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6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
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Red and yellow food coloring (or orange)
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Green M&M’s or candy leaves for decoration
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Mini tootsie rolls or pretzel sticks (for the pumpkin stem)
Wet Ingredients:
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter
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10 oz (1 standard bag) mini marshmallows
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Required Kitchen Tools
You don’t need a lot of fancy equipment to make these Halloween treats! Here’s what you’ll need:
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Large saucepan or stockpot
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Heat-resistant silicone spatula or wooden spoon
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Mixing bowl (optional, if shaping separately)
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Non-stick spray or butter (for hands)
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Baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get spooky! Here’s how to make these adorable pumpkin Rice Krispie treats.
Step 1: Melt the Butter and Marshmallows
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until fully liquefied. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted and smooth.
Step 2: Add Vanilla and Color
Remove the saucepan from heat. Quickly stir in the vanilla extract and add a few drops of red and yellow food coloring (or orange food gel). Mix until you reach a rich orange shade, similar to a pumpkin.
Step 3: Fold in the Rice Krispies
Pour in the Rice Krispies cereal and gently fold it into the marshmallow mixture until fully combined. Make sure all the cereal is coated evenly with the marshmallow mixture.
Step 4: Cool Slightly and Shape
Let the mixture cool for about 2–3 minutes (not too long, or it will harden!). Grease your hands with butter or non-stick spray and scoop out palm-sized portions of the mixture. Roll each into a ball shape.
Step 5: Add Pumpkin Stems and Leaves
While the balls are still slightly warm, press a tootsie roll or pretzel stick into the center top of each treat to mimic the pumpkin stem. Then, gently press a green M&M or candy leaf next to the stem for added detail.
Step 6: Let Set and Serve
Place the pumpkin treats on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them set for 15–30 minutes. Once firm, serve and enjoy your delightful Halloween treats!
Tips for Making the Best Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats
These treats are adorably spooky and easy to customize! Here are some tips to perfect your Halloween goodies:
Use Gel Food Coloring
Gel food coloring gives a more vibrant and pumpkin-like orange without watering down the marshmallow mixture.
Work Quickly
The marshmallow mixture sets fast. It’s best to shape the pumpkins while the mixture is still warm and pliable. Greasing your hands really helps!
Decorate Creatively
Use candy eyes for a spooky face, or drizzle melted white chocolate for a ghostly look. These treats can be as simple or as festive as you like!
Kid-Friendly Fun
Let the kids help shape and decorate the pumpkins! It’s a safe and fun Halloween activity for families.
Make Ahead
You can make these up to 2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them chewy and fresh.
Nutritional Information (Per Treat – Approximate)
Note: This will vary based on exact brands and portion sizes.
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Calories: 150–170 kcal
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Total Fat: 3g
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Saturated Fat: 2g
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Carbohydrates: 30g
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Sugar: 14g
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Protein: 1g
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Sodium: 100mg
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Fiber: 0g
These treats are low in fat and make a great alternative to heavier baked desserts. Perfect for a school party or Halloween night snack!
Why Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats Are the Ultimate Halloween Treats
When it comes to Halloween treats, these pumpkin-shaped Rice Krispies check all the boxes:
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No baking required: A simple stovetop recipe that comes together in minutes.
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Kid-approved: Soft, sweet, and so fun to decorate.
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Great for parties: Easy to transport, stack, and display.
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Budget-friendly: Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.
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Seasonal aesthetic: Fall colors and pumpkin design make them picture-perfect.
Whether you’re hosting a spooky bash, preparing a classroom snack, or just want something festive for October, these treats are guaranteed to impress.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
These Halloween treats are easy to store and transport:
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Place parchment between layers to avoid sticking.
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Freezer Option: Not recommended, as freezing alters the texture.
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Make Ahead Tip: Shape the pumpkins, let them set, and store in a sealed container overnight. Add the decorations just before serving to keep them looking fresh.
Variations and Creative Twists
Spice up your Halloween treats with these festive variations:
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Add Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to the marshmallow mixture adds warmth.
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Dip in Chocolate: Dip the bottom of each pumpkin in melted dark or white chocolate.
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Marshmallow Faces: Use mini chocolate chips to create jack-o’-lantern faces.
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Candy Corn Inside: Hide a piece of candy corn in the center of each pumpkin ball for a surprise bite.
Pair These With Other Halloween Treats
Want to build a Halloween dessert table? Pair these Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats with:
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No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Cups
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Pumpkin Spice Truffles
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Spooky Brownie Bites
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Candy-Corn Popcorn Balls
Mix and match different textures and flavors to delight guests of all ages!
Perfect for These Occasions
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Halloween Parties
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Classroom Events
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Trick-or-Treat Snacks
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Office Potlucks
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Fall Bake Sales
These treats are incredibly versatile and sure to be a crowd-pleaser wherever you bring them.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats are more than just a cute fall dessert – they’re a fun, festive, and foolproof way to celebrate the Halloween spirit. Whether you’re throwing a haunted house party or packing a spooky lunchbox treat, these cheerful little pumpkins bring joy to the season.