Rice Krispie Christmas Trees – Easy No-Bake Holiday Treats for Kids

Looking for a sweet, simple, and kid-approved Christmas treat? These Rice Krispie Christmas Trees are colorful, crunchy, and just the right amount of sweet. With gooey marshmallows, crispy cereal, green food coloring, and a sprinkle of white chocolate “snow,” they’re perfect for cookie exchanges, school parties, or a cozy afternoon at home decorating with little hands.

Plus, they’re no-bake. 🙌 Which, during the holiday hustle, is a big win in my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love Making Rice Krispie Christmas Trees

• No baking required – Fast and fuss-free
• Fun for kids – Ideal for family decorating
• Customizable – Add sprinkles, drizzle, or even M&Ms
• Perfect for gifting – Wrap them in cellophane and tie with ribbon
• Great texture – Soft marshmallow + crispy cereal = yum!

This recipe has become a family tradition in my house. My kids look forward to decorating these trees more than making sugar cookies. They’re just that fun (and easier to clean up after, too).

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 16 ounces marshmallows (about 64 regular or 8 cups mini)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 6 cups Rice Krispie cereal
• Green gel food coloring
• 12 mini pretzel sticks (tree trunks)
• Christmas sprinkles
• 4 oz white candy melts or white chocolate chips (for decorating)

Optional

• 1 teaspoon of coconut oil (if using white chocolate chips)
• Clean hands or parchment to press

How to Make Rice Krispie Christmas Trees

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

1. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. If you don’t have parchment, use foil greased with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Melt Butter + Marshmallows

1. In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until melted.
3. Add vanilla and stir quickly.

And for Step 3: Color and Combine

1. Turn off the heat and add green gel food coloring. Mix until evenly tinted.
2. Stir in the Rice Krispie cereal and fold until completely coated in green marshmallow.

Step 4: Press & Set

1. Press the mixture into your prepared baking dish.
2. Use a second piece of parchment (or clean hands lightly greased with butter) to press down evenly.
3. Let cool at room temperature for 1 hour until firm.

Step 5: Cut Into Trees

1. Lift the set mixture out using the parchment.
2. Cut the large rectangle in half lengthwise.
3. Then, cut each half into 6 triangles – this gives you 12 tree-shaped treats.

And Step 6: Add Tree Trunks

• Gently insert a mini pretzel stick into the bottom of each triangle for the trunk.

Step 7: Decorate

1. Melt white candy melts or white chocolate chips (see notes below).
2. Place melted chocolate into a freezer bag or piping bag. Snip the tip.
3. Drizzle over each tree like garland.
4. Immediately top with holiday sprinkles while chocolate is wet.

Let the chocolate set, then serve and enjoy!

Tips for Success

Keep Treats From Sticking

• Parchment paper is your best friend!
• If using foil, grease it well with butter or non-stick spray.
• To press down the mixture without sticking to your hands, lightly butter your fingers or use a buttered spatula.

Melting White Chocolate

• If using white chocolate chips, add 1 tsp coconut oil, shortening, or neutral oil.
• Microwave in short 20-second bursts, stirring in between.
• Almond bark is also great and doesn’t require extra oil.

I love using white candy melts because they set quickly, making it easier for kids to decorate without a sticky mess.

Easy Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap pretzel sticks for mini candy canes
• Mix in red/green M&Ms or mini marshmallows
• Use yellow star sprinkles or sugar pearls as “tree toppers”
• Shape with cookie cutters instead of slicing into triangles

Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature.
• Avoid refrigerating—they’ll get hard!
• To gift, wrap each tree in cellophane and tie with ribbon.

Related Festive Recipes You’ll Love

• Try more festive holiday gingerbread treats for your cookie platter
• Make easy no-bake holiday desserts like these Patriotic Oreo Balls with just a few ingredients
• Brighten your table with colorful dessert ideas for festive gatherings that everyone will love

FAQs About Rice Krispie Christmas Trees

Can I use mini marshmallows instead of regular ones?
Yes! 8 cups of mini marshmallows = about 16 oz.

What’s the best way to get clean tree shapes?
Use a sharp knife and wipe between cuts. Let the mixture cool completely before slicing.

Can I make these ahead?
Yes – up to 3–5 days ahead. Store in a cool dry spot in an airtight container.

Do I have to use green food coloring?
Nope! They’ll taste just as good plain. But the green makes them festive and fun for kids.

Can I use flavored marshmallows?
Sure! Just avoid overly colored ones as they can muddy the green.

Can I make them without chocolate?
Absolutely. The white chocolate is just for extra decoration.

Pin It for Later!

Save this fun idea to your holiday Pinterest board: Ritzy Recipes on Pinterest for more festive inspiration.

Final Thoughts

These Rice Krispie Christmas Trees are the perfect combo of festive fun and simple joy. They’re nostalgic, tasty, and so easy to make—even for beginner bakers or kids.

Whether you’re prepping for a classroom party, filling cookie tins, or just getting into the holiday spirit, these trees always bring smiles. 🎄

If you make them, I’d love to see how you decorate yours! Tag me @RitzyRecipes and let’s spread some crispy Christmas cheer!

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