There’s something undeniably nostalgic about biting into a gooey Rice Krispie treat chewy, sweet, and always a crowd-pleaser. But when fall arrives, I love taking this classic to the next level with Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats! Imagine your favorite marshmallow bars, but with cozy autumn flavors: pumpkin puree, warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and a drizzle of vanilla icing to finish. These are the treats I make on repeat for bake sales, Halloween parties, or just to tuck into lunchboxes all season long. Every bite tastes like fall, but with all the simplicity and magic of the original!
What Are Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats?
Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats are a festive take on the beloved no-bake dessert. The base is classic: crisp rice cereal bound together with melted marshmallows and butter. But here, a swirl of real pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice is melted right in, giving each bar a gorgeous color and unmistakable fall aroma. They’re finished with a quick vanilla or cream cheese icing drizzle that makes them feel extra special. This recipe is just as easy as the original, but with a fall twist that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
Here’s why these pumpkin spice treats will be your new go-to:
- No-Bake & Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes—no oven required!
- Soft & Chewy: Pumpkin puree keeps them extra gooey, never dry.
- Cozy Fall Flavors: Real pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg in every bite.
- Perfect for Sharing: Makes a big batch for parties, snacks, or gifting.
- Kid & Adult Approved: A nostalgic treat that everyone loves.
- Customizable: Add-ins and topping options for every taste.
How Do Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats Taste?
Think of your favorite Rice Krispie treat soft, chewy, marshmallowy goodness but now add layers of fall flavor. The pumpkin makes these bars extra moist, while cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger add warmth and spice. The vanilla drizzle on top provides a creamy, sweet finish. They’re lightly orange in color and smell like a pumpkin pie crossed with your favorite childhood snack. Every bite is comforting and just a little bit magical!
Health & Ingredient Benefits
While these treats are definitely a sweet indulgence, you’ll feel good knowing:
- Pumpkin Puree: Adds vitamin A, fiber, and natural color.
- Rice Cereal: Gluten-free and low in fat.
- Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg bring antioxidants and warming flavor.
- No High Fructose Corn Syrup: Homemade means you control what goes in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a classic 9×13-inch pan (about 16 treats):
- 6 cups crisp rice cereal
- 1 (10-ounce) bag mini marshmallows (about 5 1/2 cups)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Vanilla Drizzle:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 teaspoons milk or cream
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Tools You’ll Need
Just a few kitchen basics:
- Large saucepan or pot
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper or nonstick spray
- Small bowl (for icing)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Optional Substitutions & Additions
These bars are endlessly adaptable!
- Make Them Vegan: Use vegan butter and marshmallows.
- Dairy-Free: Swap butter for coconut oil.
- Add-Ins: Mini chocolate chips, white chocolate, or chopped pecans.
- Extra Pumpkin: Add more puree for extra flavor (reduce a bit of butter if so).
- Cream Cheese Drizzle: Mix cream cheese with powdered sugar and milk for tangy icing.
- Drizzle with Caramel: For extra decadence.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats
- Prep Pan: Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment or grease well.
- Melt Butter & Marshmallows: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add marshmallows and stir until smooth.
- Add Pumpkin & Spices: Stir in pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla, and salt. Mix until fully combined.
- Add Cereal: Remove from heat. Gently fold in rice cereal until evenly coated.
- Press Into Pan: Press mixture evenly into the prepared pan using a spatula (grease your hands or spatula to prevent sticking).
- Cool: Let cool at room temp for 30 minutes.
- Make Drizzle: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle over cooled treats with a fork or piping bag.
- Cut & Serve: Once icing sets, cut into squares and enjoy!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats
These treats are perfect for:
- After-school snacks or lunchboxes
- Fall bake sales or Halloween parties
- Thanksgiving dessert platters
- Paired with coffee, chai latte, or warm cider
- Wrapped up as edible gifts
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Marshmallows: Older, dry marshmallows won’t melt as smoothly.
- Don’t Over-Stir: Mix just until cereal is coated for the softest bars.
- Don’t Pack Too Tightly: Gently press into pan—firm, but not hard.
- Cool Before Cutting: Icing sets and bars cut cleanest when cooled.
- Store Airtight: Prevents bars from drying out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding Too Much Pumpkin: Too much puree makes treats soggy. Stick to 1/3 cup.
- Skipping the Salt: A pinch of salt brings out all the flavors.
- Overcooking Marshmallows: Remove from heat as soon as melted to keep bars soft.
- Using Pumpkin Pie Filling: Only pure pumpkin puree will work for this recipe.
How to Store & Reheat
- Store: In an airtight container at room temp for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individually and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw at room temp before serving.
- Do Not Refrigerate: Fridge makes them hard and chewy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pumpkin pie filling?
No, use 100% pumpkin puree for the right consistency and flavor.
Can I make these ahead?
Absolutely! They stay fresh for days and freeze well.
Why are my bars sticky or soggy?
Usually from too much pumpkin or not enough cereal. Stick to the recipe ratios.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger pan or make two batches.
Are these gluten-free?
If using certified gluten-free rice cereal, yes!
Nutritional Info (approximate per treat, 16 treats)
- Calories: 105
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fiber: 0.4g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 45mg
(Values will vary by brand and topping.)
Conclusion
Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats are the perfect mashup of nostalgia and fall flavor: gooey, chewy, quick to make, and full of pumpkin spice joy. These bars are guaranteed to disappear fast so be sure to snag one for yourself before they’re gone!
Print
Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats: The Ultimate Fall Twist on a Classic Snack
- Total Time: 30 minutes (includes cooling)
- Yield: 16 treats 1x
Description
Soft, gooey Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats made with real pumpkin puree, warm spices, and finished with a sweet vanilla drizzle. An easy, no-bake fall dessert everyone will love!
Ingredients
6 cups crisp rice cereal
1 (10-ounce) bag mini marshmallows
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/3 cup pumpkin puree
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
For the drizzle:
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2–3 teaspoons milk or cream
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment or grease well.
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add marshmallows and stir until smooth.
Stir in pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla, and salt until fully combined.
Remove from heat and gently fold in rice cereal until coated.
Press mixture evenly into prepared pan with a greased spatula or hands.
Cool 30 minutes at room temp.
Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for the drizzle. Drizzle over cooled treats.
Cut into squares once icing is set and enjoy!
Notes
Use fresh marshmallows for softest bars. Do not add extra pumpkin or treats may be too soft. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Keywords: pumpkin spice rice krispie treats, pumpkin rice krispies, fall dessert, easy no bake treat, marshmallow pumpkin bars, autumn snack, kid friendly treat
Leave a Comment