Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when the air is crisp, the leaves are falling, and our hearts are filled with gratitude. Now, let me tell you about my absolute favorite twist on a classic treat: Rice Krispie treats with a festive pumpkin flair! Every year, I whip up a batch of these delightful squares for family gatherings, and let me tell you, they disappear faster than you can say “turkey.” The creamy pumpkin puree and warm pumpkin spice make these treats not just a dessert, but a celebration of the season. Trust me, once you try this version, you’ll have your loved ones asking for them at every holiday gathering. It’s such a simple recipe, but the cozy flavors really bring everyone together around the table!
Ingredients List
- 6 cups Rice Krispies
- 1 package (10 oz) marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice (a delightful blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor, if you like)
How to Prepare Rice Krispie Treats Thanksgiving
Getting these Rice Krispie treats ready is a breeze! Trust me, you’ll be amazed at how quickly they come together. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over low heat. This is super important, so keep an eye on it—don’t let it bubble or brown! It should take about 2-3 minutes to melt completely and get all nice and gooey.
Step 2: Add Marshmallows
Once the butter is melted, it’s time to add those marshmallows. Stir them in and keep mixing until they’re completely melted and smooth. You want a lovely, velvety consistency—no lumps allowed! This usually takes another 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Mix in Pumpkin
Now, here comes the fun part! Stir in your pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice. Mix it well to ensure everything is evenly distributed. The color and aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and it’s oh-so-cozy!
Step 4: Add Rice Krispies
Time to add the Rice Krispies! Gently fold them into the marshmallow mixture, making sure each piece is coated without crushing them. This should be done carefully, so they stay nice and crispy!
Step 5: Fold in Pecans
Next, fold in those chopped pecans. They add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin perfectly. Just a few gentle stirs will do!
Step 6: Press into Dish
Now, grab a greased baking dish and press the mixture into it. I like to use a spatula or even my hands (with a little butter on them) to spread it out evenly and create a nice, flat surface. Make sure it’s packed down well!
Step 7: Cool and Cut
Let your treats cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. I know it’s tempting to dive in right away, but waiting will make cutting them easier. Once they’re set, cut them into squares and enjoy the festive goodness!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Rice Krispie treats turn out perfectly every time, here are a few handy tips! First, make sure you don’t overheat the butter or marshmallows—keep that heat low for a smooth mixture. If you want extra flavor, consider toasting your pecans beforehand. It adds a lovely depth to the treat! Also, be gentle when mixing in the Rice Krispies; you want them coated, but still crispy! Finally, don’t rush the cooling process. Allowing them to sit for at least 30 minutes will make cutting much easier and keep them from falling apart. Trust me, these little tricks make all the difference!
Nutritional Information
Just a quick note: nutritional values can vary based on the brands and ingredients you use, so this is a general guide. For each square of these delightful Rice Krispie treats, you can expect around 150 calories, 5g of fat, and 1g of protein. They’re a sweet treat, so keep an eye on sugar content too, as it comes in at about 10g per serving. Enjoy in moderation, and savor every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I make these Rice Krispie treats ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make them a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just keep them at room temperature, and they’ll stay fresh and delicious!
What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?
If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, you can use applesauce for a different flavor. It won’t have the same fall vibe, but it’ll still be tasty!
How do I prevent them from being too hard?
Make sure not to overcook the marshmallows and butter. Keeping the heat low will ensure your treats are soft and chewy rather than hard.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Of course! Feel free to get creative. Chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even some mini marshmallows can add an extra festive touch!
Are these Rice Krispie treats gluten-free?
Yes, Rice Krispies are typically gluten-free, but always check the packaging to be sure, especially if you’re serving someone with gluten sensitivities!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—only 15 minutes from start to finish!
- Deliciously festive flavors that capture the essence of Thanksgiving.
- Perfect for gatherings; these treats are a crowd-pleaser!
- Vegetarian-friendly and made with wholesome ingredients.
- Customizable with your favorite mix-ins for a personal touch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your delicious Rice Krispie treats fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will maintain their chewy texture for up to 5 days. If you want to make them ahead of time, they freeze beautifully! Just wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours. No reheating is necessary—just dive right in and savor that pumpkin-spiced goodness!
Print
Rice Krispie Treats Thanksgiving: 7 Cozy Flavor Bombs
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive twist on classic rice krispie treats for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 6 cups Rice Krispies
- 1 package (10 oz) marshmallows
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot over low heat.
- Add marshmallows and stir until melted.
- Mix in pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice.
- Add Rice Krispies and stir until coated.
- Fold in chopped pecans.
- Press mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Let cool and cut into squares.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can add chocolate chips for extra flavor.
- Use fresh pumpkin for richer taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: rice krispie treats thanksgiving
