If you’re looking for a fun and festive treat that captures the spirit of fall, then you’ve just struck pumpkin gold! These adorable Pumpkin Shaped Rice Krispie Treats are not only easy to make, but they’re also perfect for Halloween parties, school events, or just a cozy afternoon with the kiddos.

With their cheerful orange color and cute little stems, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Let’s dive into making these delightful treats!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

These pumpkin-shaped delights combine the classic gooeyness of traditional Rice Krispie treats with a seasonal twist.

With simple ingredients that you likely have in your pantry, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up a batch.

The vibrant orange color, combined with the charming pretzel stems, will make them the centerpiece of any dessert table.

Plus, who can resist a sweet treat that’s both fun to look at and delicious to eat?

Ingredients

To make these festive Pumpkin Shaped Rice Krispie Treats, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 tablespoons (52 g) unsalted butter, melted
10 ounces (283 g) mini marshmallows
Orange food coloring gel
5 cups Rice Krispie cereal
5 pretzel rod twists, cut in half
Green fondant or green frosting

How To Make Pumpkin Shaped Rice Krispie Treats

Now, let’s get into the fun part – making these adorable treats.

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Start by melting your unsalted butter in a large pot over low heat.

Keep an eye on it as you don’t want it to brown, just melt it until it’s completely liquid.

Step 2: Add the Marshmallows

Once the butter is melted, add in all 10 ounces of the mini marshmallows to the pot.

Stir them continuously until they’re fully melted and smooth.

This might take a few minutes, so be patient!

Step 3: Color the Mixture

After you have your marshmallow mixture nice and gooey, it’s time to add your orange food coloring gel.

Start with a few drops and stir until you reach your desired pumpkin orange shade.

You can add more coloring as needed for a bright, cheerful color.

Step 4: Add the Rice Krispies

Now it’s time to add the Rice Krispie cereal! Pour 5 cups into the pot and stir until all the cereal is well-coated with that delicious marshmallow mixture.

Get in there and mix it well!

Step 5: Shape the Treats

Once the mixture is well combined, let it cool for a few minutes so it’s easier to handle.

Then, use your hands (lightly greased if necessary) to form the mixture into pumpkin shapes.

Aim for about the size of a small orange.

Make sure to squish them tightly so they hold their shape!

Step 6: Add the Stems

Take your pretzel rod halves and gently insert one half into the top of each pumpkin shape.

This acts as the little stem for our pumpkins and gives them that extra cuteness!

Step 7: Decorate with Green

Finally, it’s time to add some greenery.

Roll out some green fondant if you’re using that, or just use green frosting, and create little leaves or vines to place around the base of the pretzel stems.

This really brings your pumpkin treats to life!

Step 8: Let Them Set

Allow your adorable pumpkin treats to cool completely before serving.

If you can hold off, let them set for about 30 minutes to an hour for the best texture.

Expert Tips

To make your Rice Krispie treats the best they can be, consider these helpful tips:

Use fresh marshmallows for best results. Older marshmallows can become hard and won’t melt as well.
If you want a deeper orange color, don’t be afraid to add more food coloring, but do it gradually!
Grease your hands with a bit of butter or cooking spray before shaping the treats to prevent sticking.
For a fun twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the marshmallow mixture for a spiced flavor.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to get creative with your pumpkin-shaped Rice Krispie treats! Here are some ideas:

Add chocolate chips or raisins to the mixture for added sweetness and texture.
Use different colors of fondant or frosting to create unique patterns or designs!
Make mini versions for cute party favors or treats for lunchboxes.
Try adding a small candy or chocolate surprise inside instead of forming them all into pumpkins.

How to Store Leftovers

If by some miracle you have leftovers (though they tend to disappear quickly!), you can store your Pumpkin Shaped Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature.

These treats are best enjoyed fresh but can last for about 3-5 days.

Just ensure they are kept in a cool place to maintain their chewiness!

FAQ

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

Absolutely! You can use regular marshmallows; just cut them into smaller pieces for easier melting.

Is there a substitute for the pretzel rods?

Yes! If you don’t have pretzel rods, you could use chocolate-covered pretzels, or even a small stick of chocolate if you want a sweet version.

Can I make these treats ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare these treats a day or two in advance.

Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

What kind of frosting can I use besides green frosting?

You can use any color of frosting you like! Cream cheese frosting or buttercream works well too if you want something a little different.

Conclusion

In just a few simple steps, you’ve created the most adorable Pumpkin Shaped Rice Krispie Treats that are perfect for any fall occasion.

With their vibrant color and fun shape, they are not only a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes.

Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or simply celebrating the season, these treats are sure to brighten up the day.

So grab your ingredients and start making these delightful pumpkin treats – you won’t regret it! Happy baking!