Cookies and Cream Rice Krispie

Craving something intensely nostalgic but with a twist These Cookies and Cream Rice Krispie treats turn everyone’s favorite cereal bar into a cookies studded delight Every bite is gooey crisp and has just the right punch of Oreo flavor I make these whenever I want a low fuss dessert that feels anything but ordinary

The first time I brought these to a picnic they disappeared before I could even get a taste Now my family insists I double the batch every time

Ingredients

• Salted butter: Adds rich flavor and a soft texture Use European style butter for an extra creamy base or swap vegan butter for a dairy free version
• Mini marshmallows: The gooey binder that gives the bars their stretch Fresh marshmallows melt easiest Avoid stale or dried out ones
• Vanilla extract: Lifts the flavor and makes the treats taste homemade Go for pure vanilla if possible for best aroma
• Maple syrup: Adds a subtle caramel note and a touch of complexity Real maple syrup works best but pancake syrup can stand in a pinch
• Crushed Oreo cookies: The showstopper ingredient Use classic or double stuffed For a vegan recipe grab accidentally vegan sandwich cookies
• Rice krispie cereal: The classic base Choose a brand that is nice and crisp for the right texture Stale cereal will result in chewy bars

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the Butter:

In a heavy bottomed six quart pot slowly melt the butter over medium low heat Stir continuously so the butter does not brown or burn The aroma will start to smell nutty and inviting

Combine Marshmallows and Add Flavors:

Pour in mini marshmallows and keep stirring until the mixture becomes silky and smooth Drop in the vanilla and maple syrup blending thoroughly The mixture should be glossy and stretch a little when pulled up with a spoon

Add the Cookies:

Break Oreo cookies into medium crumbs simply crushing them gently with your hands Sprinkle the cookies right onto the gooey marshmallow mixture Stir gently so there are chunks throughout not just crumbs

Fold in Rice Krispies:

Pour in the cereal and use a sturdy spatula to fold the mixture together Work quickly so the cereal stays crunchy and coated evenly with marshmallow

Press into Dish:

Line a nine inch square baking dish with parchment paper Pour all the mix into the dish Gently press it into the corners with clean hands or a greased spatula Take care not to compress the mix too much or the finished bars will be hard instead of chewy

Chill and Slice:

Cool in the fridge for at least ten minutes up to twenty four hours This firms them up for clean slicing Remove from the pan and cut into even squares using a sharp knife

Save

You Must Know

• Naturally egg free and can be dairy free
• Great make ahead treat and perfect for potlucks
• Stays soft for several days if stored well

I love how the crushed Oreos transform this treat into something brand new The first time we made them with my niece we ended up laughing over who got the biggest cookie chunk in their piece

Storage Tips

Store these treats in an airtight container in the fridge They will stay soft and fresh for up to six days Stack with parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking If you want them extra gooey let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap vegan butter for regular for a completely dairy free dessert For gluten free needs use certified gluten free crispy rice cereal and gluten free chocolate sandwich cookies Marshmallow fluff will work in place of marshmallows just use two and a half cups for the right texture

Serving Suggestions

These bars are perfect for taking along to school events picnics parties or movie nights For an extra fancy touch drizzle some melted chocolate over the top or serve with a scoop of vanilla or cookies and cream ice cream They are crowd pleasers that disappear fast wherever you bring them

Save

A Cookie Inspired Dessert

Turning classic rice krispie treats into a cookies and cream version brings together two beloved treats into one When Oreos were first added to our family baking rotation it became a go to for celebrations Birthdays and sleepovers are not the same without them