Pistachio Krispie Treats

Pistachio Krispie Treats offer a delightful spin on the beloved childhood classic. Infused with pistachio pudding mix and studded with chopped pistachios, these treats deliver a rich, nutty flavor and a cheerful green hue that makes them perfect for festive occasions. Finished with a sophisticated drizzle of dark chocolate, they strike a delicious balance between sweet, salty, and creamy textures. Whether for parties, holiday trays, or a fun afternoon treat, these bars are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Pistachio Krispie Treats take a nostalgic favorite and elevate it with gourmet flavors. Here’s why they’ll become a staple in your dessert lineup:

• Quick and easy—ready in just 30 minutes
• No baking required
• Delightfully chewy with a soft, creamy pistachio twist
• Naturally festive in color, perfect for spring, St. Patrick’s Day, or baby showers
• A unique twist on a crowd-pleasing treat

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
• 1/4 cup pistachio pudding mix (instant, dry)
• 6 cups crispy rice cereal
• 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, melted for drizzle

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
3. Stir in the dry pistachio pudding mix until fully incorporated.
4. Remove from heat and quickly fold in the rice cereal and chopped pistachios until evenly coated.
5. Press the mixture firmly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan using a buttered spatula or parchment paper.
6. Drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the top in a zigzag pattern.
7. Allow the bars to cool and set at room temperature for about 15 minutes before slicing into squares.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 16 treats
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes
• Setting Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 190 kcal per square

Variations

• White Chocolate Drizzle: Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate to complement the green color and nutty flavor.
• Extra Nutty: Add chopped almonds or cashews along with pistachios for a mixed-nut version.
• Marshmallow Chunks: Reserve a handful of marshmallows to stir in at the end for gooey bites.
• Salted Finish: Lightly sprinkle with sea salt before the chocolate sets for a sweet-salty contrast.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use certified gluten-free rice cereal and pudding mix for a gluten-free treat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
• Refrigeration: Not necessary, but can extend freshness. Allow to come to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: Freeze in a single layer or between layers of parchment for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Not required. These are best enjoyed at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use sugar-free pudding mix?

Yes, sugar-free pistachio pudding mix works well and slightly reduces the sweetness.

Do the treats taste strongly of pistachio?

They have a subtle pistachio flavor enhanced by the chopped nuts and pudding mix, offering a mild, creamy nutty profile.

Can I make these without the chocolate drizzle?

Absolutely. The chocolate is optional, though it adds a nice flavor and visual contrast.

Are these treats nut-free?

No, they contain pistachios. For a nut-free version, omit the pistachios and use a different pudding mix.

What kind of pistachios should I use?

Use shelled, unsalted pistachios for the best control over flavor and salt content.

Can I use flavored marshmallows?

It’s best to stick with classic vanilla mini marshmallows to avoid clashing flavors.

Will the pudding mix affect the texture?

Yes, it adds a slightly softer, creamier texture compared to traditional rice krispie treats.

Can I shape these into balls or fun molds?

Yes, while warm, the mixture can be shaped into rounds or pressed into silicone molds for themed designs.

How long do they need to set before slicing?

Let them set for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or until firm enough to cut cleanly.

Can I add food coloring to enhance the green color?

Yes, a drop or two of green gel food coloring can intensify the hue if desired for themed events.

Conclusion

Pistachio Krispie Treats bring an elegant twist to a timeless classic. With their vibrant color, nutty richness, and indulgent chocolate finish, these bars are perfect for both casual snacking and festive occasions. Whether you’re making a holiday dessert spread or simply upgrading a lunchbox treat, these chewy squares promise to deliver flavor, texture, and a touch of culinary charm.

Pistachio Krispie Treats

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Classic rice krispie treats meet the nutty richness of pistachios and the elegance of dark chocolate drizzle. Soft, chewy, and festive green, they’re perfect for celebrations or a fun twist on a nostalgic snack.

• Author: Mari
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 16 treats 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop, No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
• 1/4 cup pistachio pudding mix
• 6 cups crispy rice cereal
• 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, melted for drizzle

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Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
2. Add mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
3. Stir in the pistachio pudding mix until fully incorporated.
4. Remove from heat and quickly fold in the crispy rice cereal and chopped pistachios.
5. Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch pan using a buttered spatula or wax paper.
6. Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top.
7. Allow to set at room temperature until firm, then cut into squares and serve.

Notes

• For extra pistachio flavor, add a few drops of pistachio extract if available.
• Lightly toast pistachios before mixing for deeper flavor.
• To prevent sticking, spray your hands or spatula with nonstick spray.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 treat
• Calories: 190 kcal
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 100 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 29 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 5 mg