While I love a classic rice krispie treat, sometimes it’s fun to mix things up. That’s where these pumpkin rice krispie treats come in!

I wanted this rice krispie treat recipe to be nostalgic with a slightly elevated flavor.

These are truly some of the best rice krispies I’ve ever had. Even my husband who “isn’t a dessert person” was going back for seconds… that’s how you know this recipe is a keeper!

How to Make These Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats

Making these rice krispie treats is just as simple as you remember!

Before you get started, prepare your pan. Things get sticky fast so doing this first is important.

I used a square 8×8-inch baking pan which yields 16 treats. However, you can use any square pan you have on hand.

In a large pot, melt 1/2 cup of butter. Use a larger pot than you might think you’d need because you’ll be mixing all the cereal into this pot.

Once the butter is melted, turn the heat to low and stir in 10 oz. of marshmallows.

Mix with a rubber spatula until the marshmallows are smooth.

At this point, you can add a small squirt of orange gel food coloring. If you don’t have gel food coloring, use 2 tsp of liquid food coloring.

This is optional but I feel like it helps spread some Fall cheer! Mix it in until it’s evenly colored.

Then it’s time to pumpkin these rice krispie treats up! Add in 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/4 tsp fine salt.

Remove the pot from the stove and get your arms ready to stir! Add in half the cereal and fold it into the pumpkin marshmallow mixture with a spatula.

Once combined, fold in the rest of the cereal. The cereal should be fully coated with the marshmallow mixture.

I also like to stir in a cup of mini marshmallows for some extra texture! But this is optional.

Quickly scoop the mixture into the prepared pan. Use a rubber spatula to press the mixture into an even layer.

Let the rice krispies cool for 15 minutes, then drizzle with cream cheese frosting (use 1/4 batch of this recipe) and enjoy!

What Type of Cereal Should I Use?

Any type of puffed rice cereal will work in this recipe.

I usually use classic Rice Krispies, but you can also make some chocolate pumpkin rice krispie treats by using Cocoa Krispies!

What Type of Marshmallows Should I Use?

I usually use large marshmallows to make these pumpkin rice krispie treats because they’re the easiest to find.

But mini marshmallows would work too, and actually melt down more easily!

Sometimes I also like to mix in some mini marshmallows for added texture. They give these pumpkin rice krispie treats a fun look, which I love!

Tips for Making the Best Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats

• Prepare your pan before you melt the butter! Things will get sticky quickly.
• Mini marshmallows melt down quicker. I recommend using them if you can find them.
• Add the rice krispies in two additions. This will make it easier to mix together.
• Although it’s optional- I recommend drizzling the top of the treats with some cream cheese frosting for some added richness. Use this recipe!
• Let your treats cool for at least 15 minutes before cutting and serving.

Making These Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats in Advance

You can make these treats in advance! Unfrosted rice krispie treats can sit at room temperature for up to 5 days if stored in an airtight container.

You can also freeze them in an airtight container for up to six weeks.

Frosted rice krispie treats should be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Let Me Know What You Think!

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear what you think! Let me know your thoughts by sharing a comment and rating below.

Don’t forget to tag me @chelsweets and use #chelsweets so that I can see your delicious creations on social media!

Other Recipes You Might Like: