There's nothing quite as delightful as biting into a Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Ball. Imagine soft, chewy marshmallows wrapped in sweet, buttery caramel, all rolled in the crunchy goodness of Rice Krispies. These little treats are as fun to make as they are to eat and are perfect for any occasion.

I first came across this recipe during the holidays when I needed a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, these treats quickly became a staple in my kitchen. Let me show you how you can whip these up at home in no time!

Why You'll Love This Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for this no-bake dessert. Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls check all the boxes for a perfect sweet treat.

First and foremost, they’re quick and easy to make. With just a few steps and no oven required, this recipe is a lifesaver when you’re short on time but still want to impress.

These treats are also kid-friendly! Whether you’re making them as an after-school snack or letting the kids join in the fun of rolling the balls, this recipe brings joy to the whole family.

Plus, they’re incredibly portable. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or even a quick treat on the go. No sticky mess here!

Lastly, the flavor and texture combination is unbeatable. The buttery caramel paired with the crunch of the Rice Krispies and the softness of the marshmallows creates a dessert you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls is their simplicity. You’ll need just a handful of ingredients to create magic. Here’s what makes them special:

Caramels: Use soft, individually wrapped caramels for the smoothest, creamiest texture. Avoid caramel sauce, as it’s too thin for this recipe.
Sweetened condensed milk: This adds richness and helps create that velvety caramel coating.
Butter: A small amount goes a long way in adding flavor and preventing the caramel from sticking.
Large marshmallows: These form the center of each ball, providing a gooey, irresistible core.
Rice Krispies cereal: For the perfect crunch, go for the classic version, but you can try flavored options for a twist.

No special equipment is required, though a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl will make melting the caramel a breeze.

How To Make Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls

Making these treats is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Let’s break it down:

Prepare the caramel coating: Start by unwrapping your caramels and combining them with sweetened condensed milk and butter in a large microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
Assemble your workstation: Set up a tray or large plate with a layer of Rice Krispies cereal. Lay out your marshmallows and keep a pair of tongs or a fork handy for dipping.
Dip the marshmallows: Using the tongs, dip each marshmallow into the warm caramel mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess drip off.
Roll in Rice Krispies: Immediately roll the caramel-coated marshmallow in the Rice Krispies, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Place each finished ball on a parchment-lined tray to set.
Let them set: Allow the balls to cool and firm up for about 15–20 minutes. You can speed up this process by placing them in the refrigerator.

These delicious treats are ready in about 30 minutes, from start to finish. Perfect for last-minute dessert needs!

Storage Options

One of the great things about Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls is how well they store. Here are some tips to keep them fresh:

Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Refrigeration: For a longer shelf life, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. They’ll stay firm but maintain their chewy texture.
Freezing: These treats freeze beautifully! Wrap each ball individually in wax paper and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

To reheat frozen balls, you can give them a quick zap in the microwave for 10 seconds to soften the caramel slightly.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best parts about this recipe is how customizable it is. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

Mini marshmallows: Instead of large marshmallows, use clusters of mini marshmallows for smaller, bite-sized treats.
Flavored Rice Krispies: Swap out the classic cereal for chocolate or berry-flavored varieties to add a unique twist.
Chocolate drizzle: Once the balls are set, drizzle melted chocolate over them for added decadence.
Peanut butter caramel: Stir a tablespoon of peanut butter into the caramel mixture for a nutty, rich flavor.
Holiday sprinkles: Roll the balls in festive sprinkles after the Rice Krispies for a seasonal touch.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own!

These Caramel Marshmallow Rice Krispie Balls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them at a party or simply indulging in a sweet treat for yourself, you’ll love how easy and satisfying they are. Give them a try – I promise they’ll be a hit!