You only need an hour and 4 ingredients to make these delicious Vegan Maple Rice Crispy Treats—crispy rice cereal dances with melty vegan marshmallows, kissed by the warmth of pure maple syrup. This no-bake masterpiece delivers a crunchy, chewy, and irresistibly maple-infused experience in every square.
Imagine the delightful nostalgia of classic rice crispy treats, but with an infused twist that’s going to make your taste buds dance – introducing my Vegan Maple Rice Crispy Treats! This recipe is a playful, plant based homage to the beloved snack of our childhood.
Maple syrup, the unsung hero of this recipe, adds a touch of warmth and natural sweetness, elevating the humble rice crispy treat to new heights. There’s something magical about the combination of crispy rice cereal, chewy vegan marshmallows and the sweetness of maple–leaving you reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds!).
Are you looking for other super easy vegan dessert recipes? Try my Best Ever Banana Bread or No Bake Peanut Butter Oreo Mini Cheesecakes
Jump to:
- Why you’ll LOVE these Vegan Maple Rice Crispy Treats
- Ingredients and Substitutions
- Special Equipment to Make these Vegan Rice Crispy Treats
- Gluten-Free Vegan Maple Rice Crispy Treats
- How to Make Vegan Rice Crispy Treats – Step by Step
- Tips and Variations
- Common Questions about Vegan Rice Crispy Treats
- Want to save these rice crispy treats for later? Here’s how!
- Vegan Maple Rice Crispy Treats (4 ingredients!)
Why you’ll LOVE these Vegan Maple Rice Crispy Treats
Maple Bliss in Every Bite: These treats aren’t just rice crispy squares; they’re a maple-infused paradise. The unmistakable warmth and richness of pure maple syrup elevate each bite, creating a symphony of flavors that’ll transport you straight to a cozy autumn afternoon.
No-Bake, All the Fun: Who said delicious desserts have to be complicated? With these treats, the oven can take a break. A simple, no-bake recipe means you can whip up a batch in no time, leaving you more moments to savor the sweet rewards.
100% Vegan, Zero Compromises: Being vegan doesn’t mean missing out on the sweet things in life. These treats are a testament to the fact that plant-based desserts can be just as indulgent and satisfying, without compromising on taste or texture.
Perfectly Portable Pleasure: Whether you’re heading to a picnic, potluck, or just lounging at home, these treats are the ultimate portable pleasure. They’re sturdy enough to withstand the journey and shareable enough to make you the hero of any gathering.
Kid-Approved, Adult-Adored: Finding a treat that pleases both the little ones and the grown-ups isn’t always easy. However, these Vegan Maple Rice Crispy Treats are universally loved. They capture the nostalgia of childhood snacks with a sophisticated twist that appeals to every age group.
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Crispy rice cereal: The crispy foundation of our treats! Opt for a brown rice cereal for a nuttier flavor or go classic with a plain rice cereal for that familiar crunch. Feeling adventurous? Try quinoa puffs or your favorite gluten-free cereal for a unique twist.
- Vegan marshmallows: The sticky magic that binds our treats together! Look for vegan marshmallows at your local health food store; they’re often made without gelatin. My favorite are the Dandies brand. No vegan marshmallows on hand? You can make your own using agar-agar or try vegan marshmallow fluff for a gooey alternative.
- Vegan butter: The key to a buttery richness without any animal products! Butter helps melt down the marshmallows. Choose a vegan butter with a high-fat content for the best results. Coconut oil is a great alternative.
- Pure maple syrup: The star of the show! Pure maple syrup not only sweetens but also brings a deep, caramel-like richness to our treats.
Special Equipment to Make these Vegan Rice Crispy Treats
Fear not, aspiring vegan bakers! This recipe doesn’t demand a kitchen full of gadgets. Here’s all you need to make these Vegan Maple Rice Crispy Treats:
- 9×9 inch Baking Dish: This trusty square pan is the stage where the magic happens. Grease it up with a bit of vegan butter or a quick spritz of cooking spray to ensure your treats don’t stick.
- Large Pot: The pot is your culinary cauldron, where marshmallows and vegan butter unite in a melty symphony. Opt for a large one to accommodate the whole sticky, sweet spectacle.
- Spatula: A spatula is your tool of choice for pressing the mixture into a smooth, even layer. It’s the director’s wand in this kitchen drama, ensuring every square is a star.
- Stirring Spoon: Stir, stir, stir! A long-handled stirring spoon is your ticket to a silky marshmallow blend. Keep it handy to weave your culinary spells over the bubbling pot.
Gluten-Free Vegan Maple Rice Crispy Treats
Good news for our gluten-sensitive friends—making these delightful treats gluten-free is a breeze. Here’s how you can enjoy the sweet indulgence without a trace of gluten:
- Choose a Gluten-Free Rice Cereal: Opt for a certified gluten-free rice cereal. Many varieties are available in health food stores or the gluten-free section of your grocery store.
- Select Gluten-Free Vegan Marshmallows: Ensure your marshmallows are gluten-free. Some brands might include gluten-based ingredients, so check the label to be on the safe side.
- Check Your Vegan Butter: Some vegan butter substitutes may contain gluten, so double-check the label to confirm it’s gluten-free. Coconut oil is a great gluten-free alternative if you prefer.
- Maple Syrup, the Naturally Gluten-Free Sweetener: Luckily, pure maple syrup is inherently gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious sweetener for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Mind the Cross-Contamination: Be vigilant about avoiding cross-contamination in your kitchen. Use separate utensils, pots, and pans to ensure a truly gluten-free creation.
How to Make Vegan Rice Crispy Treats – Step by Step
- Grease the Baking Dish
Start by greasing a 9×9 inch baking dish with a generous coating of vegan butter or a quick spritz of cooking spray. This ensures your treats are easy to remove and minimizes any sticking.
- Melt Marshmallows and Butter
In a large pot over low heat, melt one package (10 oz) of vegan marshmallows and 3 tablespoons of non-dairy butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. This is the gooey, sticky base of our treats, so keep that spatula moving!
- Infuse with Maple Goodness
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the ¼ cup of pure maple syrup. The kitchen will be filled with the sweet aroma of maple, signaling that you’re on the right track.
- Introduce the Rice Cereal
Add the 6 cups of rice cereal to the pot, ensuring each crispy bit is fully coated in the marshmallow-maple blend. The combination of textures and flavors is what makes these treats irresistible.
- Bonus Marshmallow Addition
Here’s a little secret step for extra gooey goodness: toss in an additional 5 oz of vegan marshmallows. Stir until these extra marshmallows are just beginning to melt, creating pockets of chewy delight in every bite.
- Press into the Baking Dish
Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish. Use a spatula to press it down firmly, creating a smooth and even layer. Channel your inner sculptor; this step is all about precision.
- Patience, Grasshopper
Allow your creation to cool and set for at least 30 minutes. This is the hardest part—resist the temptation to dive in too soon. The waiting game ensures that your treats hold their shape when you cut into them.
- Slice and Serve
Once the mixture has set, grab a sharp knife and cut your masterpiece into squares. The size is up to you; whether you go for bite-sized delights or hearty squares, each one is a taste of maple-infused bliss.
Tips and Variations
- Creative Shapes: Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes for special occasions. Hearts for Valentine’s Day or pumpkins for Halloween—the possibilities are endless.
- Melt the marshmallows slowly: Melt the marshmallows slowly on low heat, stirring constantly. If the heat is too high, the marshmallows can burn and become tough.
- Experiment with flavors: Stir in a half cup of chopped nuts like pecans, almonds, or cashews for a delightful crunch. Embrace the spirit of the season by adding a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the marshmallow mixture. It’s like a cozy autumn hug in every bite.
Common Questions about Vegan Rice Crispy Treats
The key to achieving the perfect texture is in the marshmallow-to-cereal ratio. Ensure that the melted marshmallow mixture fully coats the rice cereal, and press the mixture into the baking dish firmly but not excessively. Additionally, allowing the treats to cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting helps maintain a chewy, delightful texture.
Absolutely! In fact, making these treats ahead of time is a great idea. Prepare them the day before your event, cut them into squares, and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This not only saves you time on the day of the party but also allows the flavors to meld for an even more delicious treat.
Of course! While a 9×9 inch dish is ideal for creating the perfect thickness, you can use different sizes depending on your preference. A larger dish will result in thinner treats, and a smaller one will yield thicker squares. Adjust the size according to your preference, keeping in mind that the thickness may affect the setting time.
Want to save these rice crispy treats for later? Here’s how!
Counter: Once your Vegan Maple Rice Crispy Treats have set for at least 30 minutes, you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container. They’ll maintain their chewy-crisp texture for up to 3 days.
Fridge: For a longer shelf life and a slightly firmer texture, you can refrigerate your treats. Place them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Freezer: To keep a stash for those unexpected cravings, these treats freeze wonderfully. Cut them into squares, layer with parchment paper, and store in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll remain delicious for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before indulging.
Pro Tip: If you’re freezing a larger batch, consider placing parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking.
Thank you so much for reading, friend! If you make this recipe in your very own kitchen, please come back and leave a star rating and review. I would absolutely LOVE to hear what you thought!
Happy Baking!
xoxo, Audra
Vegan Maple Rice Crispy Treats (4 ingredients!)
Ingredients
- 6 cups rice cereal
- 1 ½ packages 15 oz vegan marshmallows
- 3 tablespoon vegan butter
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
Instructions
- Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish with vegan butter or cooking spray.
- In a large pot, melt one package (10 oz) vegan marshmallows and non-dairy butter over low heat, stirring constantly until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in maple syrup.
- Add rice cereal, additional marshmallows (5 oz) and stir until cereal is fully coated.
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and press down firmly with a spatula to create an even layer.
- Allow the mixture to cool and set for at least 30 minutes.
- Once set, cut into squares and serve.
[…] If you are looking for something different try one of these other autumn inspired recipes: Vegan Pumpkin Dark Chocolate Chip Scones and Vegan Maple Rice Crispy Treats […]