Vegan Rice Crispy Treats Recipe

Who doesn’t love a good rice crispy treat? They’re sweet, crunchy, and oh-so-satisfying. But if you’re vegan, finding a recipe that fits your dietary needs can be tricky.

This vegan rice crispy treats recipe is just as delicious as the original, but completely free of animal products. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or just looking to try something new, these treats are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Ingredients Overview

The secret to making these treats vegan lies in the ingredients. Traditional rice crispy treats use marshmallows and butter, which contain animal products. Fortunately, there are excellent vegan alternatives available. Using vegan marshmallows and dairy-free butter ensures these treats are entirely plant-based without compromising on taste or texture.

Ingredient List

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up a batch of vegan rice crispy treats: 6 cups of rice cereal (make sure it’s vegan-friendly), 4 cups of vegan marshmallows, 4 tablespoons of vegan butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor). Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup of vegan chocolate chips, 1/4 cup of chopped nuts, 1/4 cup of dried fruit.

Tools and Equipment Needed

Before you start, make sure you have the right tools on hand: large saucepan, spatula or wooden spoon, 9×13-inch baking pan, parchment paper or non-stick spray. If you don’t have a large saucepan, you can use a microwave-safe bowl to melt the butter and marshmallows, but be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Start by preparing your baking pan. Line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it with some vegan butter. This will make it easier to remove the treats once they’ve set.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the Vegan Butter: In a large saucepan, melt the vegan butter over low heat. Stir constantly to avoid burning. You want it to be fully melted and slightly bubbly.

Add Vegan Marshmallows: Once the butter is melted, add the vegan marshmallows. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth. This step requires patience, but it’s crucial for that perfect gooey texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix in the Rice Cereal: Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly add the rice cereal. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure all the cereal is evenly coated. Be careful not to crush the cereal as you mix.

Press the Mixture into the Pan: Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press it down firmly into an even layer. If the mixture is sticking to your hands or tools, lightly grease them with vegan butter or oil.

Let It Set: Let the treats cool at room temperature for about an hour, or until they’re firm. You can speed up the process by placing the pan in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes.

Optional Add-Ins and Variations

Chocolate Chips: Stir in vegan chocolate chips with the rice cereal for a chocolatey twist. Peanut Butter: Melt 1/4 cup of peanut butter with the marshmallows for a nutty flavor. Nuts or Dried Fruit: Add a handful of chopped nuts or dried fruit to the mix for some added texture and flavor.

One of the best things about rice crispy treats is how customizable they are. Experimenting with different add-ins can make each batch unique and exciting.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Rice Crispy Treats

Don’t Overheat the Marshmallows: Melting the marshmallows too quickly or at high temperature can cause them to harden once cooled. Always melt them slowly over low heat.

Press Gently: When pressing the mixture into the pan, be firm but gentle. Over-pressing can make the treats too dense and hard.

Serving Suggestions

Vegan rice crispy treats are versatile and can be served in many ways: cut into squares, dipped in chocolate, or as part of a dessert bar. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.

For an extra indulgent treat, dip the bottom of each square in melted vegan chocolate. Serve them alongside other vegan desserts at a party or gathering.

Storing and Freezing Instructions

To keep your vegan rice crispy treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen.

Freezing: Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

These treats retain their taste and texture even after freezing, making them perfect for meal prep.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of vegan rice crispy treats contains approximately: calories: 120, total fat: 4g, carbohydrates: 22g, protein: 1g. For a healthier version, reduce the amount of vegan butter or add ingredients like flaxseeds or protein powder.

This nutritional information can help you keep track of your dietary intake.

Why Vegan Rice Crispy Treats are a Healthier Choice

Vegan rice crispy treats are a healthier alternative to the traditional recipe for several reasons. They’re free from cholesterol and can be made with whole-grain rice cereal for added fiber. Many vegan marshmallows are made with natural sweeteners, which are better compared to high-fructose corn syrup found in many conventional marshmallows.

Vegan rice crispy treats are a fun, easy, and delicious snack that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re vegan or not, this recipe is a great way to indulge in a sweet treat without the guilt.

So why not give it a try? You’ll be surprised at how simple and satisfying these treats can be.