There is something truly magical about the holidays, and nothing captures that festive spirit quite like a batch of 2026 Sugar Cookie Rice Krispie Treats for Winter Holidays. These treats combine the nostalgic crunch of classic Rice Krispies with the warm, cozy flavor of a sugar cookie, all wrapped up in a colorful sprinkle-studded package. Whether you’re looking for a whimsical dessert to bring to a party or a sweet snack to surprise your family with, these treats are an absolute showstopper. They’re delightfully buttery, marshmallowy, and melt-in-your-mouth soft with a pop of festive fun that makes every bite pure joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is half the fun and puts you on the path to something truly delicious. Each component plays a key role, from the rich butter that adds creaminess and depth, to the sugar cookie mix that brings a hint of holiday nostalgia.
- ½ cup Betty Crocker Sugar Cookie Mix (heat-treated): This mix brings that signature sugar cookie flavor, and heating it ensures it’s safe and enhances the taste.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature): Butter adds richness and helps create that gooey, soft texture you crave.
- 1 10 oz bag large marshmallows: Essential for binding everything together with their smooth, melty sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and a lovely depth of flavor that’s unmistakably festive.
- 4 cups Rice Krispies: The classic crunchy base that gives these treats their iconic snap.
- 1 cup mini marshmallows: For extra pockets of gooey marshmallow surprise throughout the treats.
- 3 tablespoons holiday sprinkles (divided): These bring a whimsical, colorful touch that makes these treats festive and fun.
How to Make 2026 Sugar Cookie Rice Krispie Treats for Winter Holidays
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze and ensures your treats will come out easily once set.
Step 2: Heat-Treat the Sugar Cookie Mix
Place the sugar cookie mix in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it reaches 160°F. This step is crucial to make sure your treats are safe to eat and to deepen the cookie flavor. You can also do this in the oven by spreading the mix on a baking sheet and baking it at 300°F for about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Melt Butter and Marshmallows
In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter slowly to avoid burning. Once melted, add the large marshmallows and stir continuously until everything is smooth, glossy, and fully melted. This mixture is the glue holding all your treats together.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Stir the heated sugar cookie mix and vanilla extract into the melted marshmallows until fully incorporated. Be sure to mix well but gently so the mixture stays light and fluffy.
Step 5: Fold in Crispy Goodness
Gently fold in the Rice Krispies, mini marshmallows, and 2 tablespoons of holiday sprinkles until everything is evenly coated. This step ensures the texture is perfect with soft marshmallow pockets and a festive sprinkle pop in every bite.
Step 6: Press and Sprinkle
Transfer the mixture into your prepared pan and press down gently with a spatula so it’s evenly spread but still light. Top with the remaining holiday sprinkles for a final sprinkle-studded flourish. Let the treats sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to fully set before cutting into squares.
How to Serve 2026 Sugar Cookie Rice Krispie Treats for Winter Holidays
Garnishes
Elevate your presentation with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate over the top. Edible glitter or crushed candy canes also add a sparkly, seasonal touch that your guests will adore.
Side Dishes
These treats pair wonderfully with warm mugs of hot cocoa, whipped cream-topped coffee, or even a brilliant fruit platter to balance the sweetness. For a cozy winter spread, consider serving alongside gingerbread cookies or spiced nuts.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the treats into festive shapes using cookie cutters, or layer them in clear jars tied with colorful ribbons for charming, gift-worthy packaging. You can also skewer bite-sized squares with cinnamon sticks for an edible stirrer experience!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your 2026 Sugar Cookie Rice Krispie Treats for Winter Holidays fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Avoid refrigerating, as it tends to harden these delightful treats.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance or save some for later, individually wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can keep well frozen for up to 6 weeks. Thaw at room temperature before serving to restore that perfect gooey texture.
Reheating
While these treats are delicious straight from the container, a few seconds in the microwave can bring back that fresh-from-the-pan softness. Just heat for 10 to 15 seconds and enjoy the melty goodness again.
FAQs
Do I have to heat-treat the sugar cookie mix?
Yes, heat-treating the sugar cookie mix is important to ensure it’s safe to consume and it enhances the flavor by mellowing any raw flour taste. You can do this either in the microwave or oven as described in the recipe.
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini and large?
While large marshmallows work best for melting evenly, using only mini marshmallows can change the texture and melt time. It’s best to stick to the combination for the ideal gooey consistency with soft little marshmallow pockets.
What kind of sprinkles work best?
Holiday-themed sprinkles with reds, greens, and whites really bring out the festive spirit. You can choose nonpareils, jimmies, or even edible glitters depending on the look you want. Just make sure they are food-safe and complement the flavors.
Can I substitute Rice Krispies with another cereal?
Sure, but keep in mind that Rice Krispies have a unique light crunch that balances the softness of the marshmallows. Puffed rice or cornflakes could work, but textures and taste may vary slightly.
How long will these treats stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these treats stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days. After that, they may start to lose their soft texture.
Final Thoughts
Trying the 2026 Sugar Cookie Rice Krispie Treats for Winter Holidays is like hugging your taste buds with festive cheer. They’re simple to make yet bursting with flavor and fun, making them one of those recipes you’ll want to keep coming back to every holiday season. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll be your new favorite holiday tradition!
Print2026 Sugar Cookie Rice Krispie Treats for Winter Holidays
These Sugar Cookie Rice Krispies Treats combine the beloved gooey texture of classic rice cereal marshmallow treats with the delightful flavor of sugar cookie mix and vanilla. Enhanced with mini marshmallows and colorful holiday sprinkles, they make a festive and fun dessert or snack that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any celebration.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 treats (approximately 2-inch squares) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ½ cup Betty Crocker Sugar Cookie Mix (heat-treated*)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 (10 oz) bag large marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons holiday sprinkles, divided
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. Set aside for easy removal of treats later.
- Heat-Treat Sugar Cookie Mix: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the sugar cookie mix in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until it reaches 160°F. This step ensures food safety by eliminating any bacteria present in the flour.
- Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large pot over low heat, melt the butter gently. Once melted, add the large marshmallows and stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Incorporate Sugar Cookie Mix and Vanilla: Stir in the heat-treated sugar cookie mix and vanilla extract into the melted marshmallow mixture until fully combined, then remove the pot from heat.
- Add Rice Krispies and Mini Marshmallows: Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, mini marshmallows, and 2 tablespoons of the holiday sprinkles until the mixture is evenly coated and combined.
- Transfer and Press Mixture: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press down gently with a spatula or wax paper to flatten it into an even layer.
- Top with Sprinkles and Set: Sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of holiday sprinkles over the top, then let the treats sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to set before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Heat-Treated Sugar Cookie Mix: To heat-treat, microwave the mix in 30-second bursts stirring between until it reaches 160°F. Alternatively, bake a thin layer at 300°F for about 10 minutes.
- Storage: Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Avoid refrigeration to keep treats soft.
- Freezing: For longer storage, individually wrap squares in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze up to 6 weeks. Thaw at room temperature before serving.