Pumpkin Marshmallow Rice Krispie Treats for Fall Parties

Why you will love these squares:

• The taste — these Rice Krispie treats are sweet, soft, and gooey. The pumpkin adds a gentle, pleasant flavor that isn’t overpowering, so even people who don’t usually love pumpkin tend to enjoy these.
• They are quick and easy to make with minimal hands-on time.
• Flexible for dietary needs — options are provided for gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan versions.
• No white chocolate chips or artificial coloring required — the pretty orange hue comes naturally from pumpkin puree, making them ideal for Thanksgiving or Halloween.

Ingredients:

Use the recipe card below for exact measurements.

Jump to the Recipe

• Rice Krispies cereal: any rice crisp cereal works.
• Mini marshmallows: melt faster and give a better texture than large marshmallows. Fresher marshmallows produce the best results.
• Pumpkin puree: provides color and a subtle pumpkin note. Use pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
• Butter and vanilla extract: salted butter is recommended for flavor.

Recipe variations and add-ins:

• Gluten-free: choose a certified gluten-free rice crisp cereal.
• Dairy-free: substitute vegan butter.
• Vegan: use vegan marshmallows and a plant-based butter.
• Chocolate option: drizzle melted chocolate over the bars before they set to make chocolate pumpkin Rice Krispie treats.

How to make pumpkin Rice Krispie treats:

1. Step 1: Line an 8″ x 8″ baking pan with parchment paper. In a large pot, gently melt the butter and pumpkin puree together over medium-low heat, stirring to combine.

2. Step 2: When the butter and pumpkin are fully warmed and combined, add the marshmallows and vanilla, then reduce heat to low. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth, taking care not to burn the mixture.

3. Step 3: Remove the pot from heat and fold in the cereal until every piece is coated in the marshmallow-pumpkin mixture. Transfer to the prepared pan and press gently into an even layer.

4. Step 4: Let the bars set at room temperature for at least 1 hour. Once set, cut into squares and serve.

Top tips:

• Stir the pumpkin, butter, and marshmallows frequently while melting to avoid burning or sticking.
• If you want the bars to set faster, chill the pan in the refrigerator until firm.

Standard Rice Krispies may contain gluten, but brands offer gluten-free rice crisp options. Check labels to be sure.

No — the pumpkin flavor is subtle. The bars are sweet and gooey with just a hint of pumpkin, so they appeal even to people who aren’t big pumpkin fans.

Yes. Let the bars cool and cut into squares, wrap each in wax paper, place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Store leftover squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to 7 days.

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