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Would you believe I’ve only ever made Rice Krispies Squares once before this? I believe I’ve only ever had a nibble of the packaged ones once or twice before too!
I recall trying these out for the first time last year and it was during the Rice Krispies cereal shortage, so I used an off brand. I followed the simple original recipe and added some Nutella on top. They were incredible and the ease of preparation totally had me by surprise!
I have a habit of wanting to make something again after I’ve loved it, but I have such a hard time taking the time out to revisit a favourite. All this time later here we are! I couldn’t wait to try it out again, and now I really should make it a point to make Rice Krispies Treats more often! You’ll see yourself how you only need to carve out about a half hour of your day for such a tasty snack that’s perfect for before or after the gym or even for dessert with a hot beverage!
While I can’t say that Rice Krispies Squares are nostalgic for me, I know it is for many of you reading. If you’ve always wanted to make your own Rice Krispies Squares like I did, check it off your bucket list as part of your Live to Cook one-month challenge and you can put your heart on a plate for someone else who loves the squares so much! You can get started on your cooking journey for free by signing up to my newsletter, plus you’ll get all of my new recipes delivered right to your inbox!
To see how to make the squares and our incredible chocolate protein topping, check out the video! I’d love it if you subscribed to my YouTube channel if you haven’t already, and don’t forget to hit the bell button to be notified when all of my video recipes go live! Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love Protein Rice Krispies Treats!
- Super easy: The process to make Rice Krispies Squares is a timely classic and accessible to everyone! With our little touches, it’ll still be a really easy recipe to follow so you can make them at any time you feel like it!
- Kid-friendly: I’ve seen the images online of little kids helping their parents in the cooking of the rice krispies squares. I'm not a parent myself but I definitely believe that children should get involved in the kitchen - it was a big part of my childhood! Not only are these tasty for kids, but you can get them to learn some skills and bond together.
- Diet-friendly: I’ll mention below how you can customize the recipe to fit whatever dietary needs you have. These Protein Rice Krispies Treats can be gluten-free, vegan, and they’re low FODMAP. Read on to see how these treats can suit your dietary needs.
- Customizable: Check out the bottom of this post to see some variations to truly make these Rice Krispies Treats your very own!
- Convenient snack: They’re so easy for a grab-and-go snack to take to the gym, work, or school, or just to eat them when
- Tasty: If you ask me, this is of course the most important reason why you should make them! They’re super delicious and fresh because they’re made from scratch!
What Protein Powder Should I use For Protein RIce Krispies Treats?▼
Feel free to use whatever protein powder you’d like! Lots of recipes use vanilla protein powder so that there is no colour change. I’m using chocolate because I just really enjoy chocolate, but my answer is to simply use your favourite flavour!
For non-plant-based protein powders, there is whey protein powder and casein protein powder. Both whey and casein are proteins that are derived from milk. Casein is made up of 80% milk and whey is made up of 20% milk protein. You may actually be familiar with whey if you’ve seen my Homemade Paneer and Chhena recipes - both casein and whey are by-products of cheesemaking! Whey is the liquid substance that separates from the milk solids when your acid (such as vinegar or lemon juice) is added to the milk, and casein are the curds.
In terms of nutrition, whey and casein proteins have near identical calorie counts, including the grams of protein, carbohydrates, and fats per scoop. Whey protein is absorbed quicker in the body than casein, so if you use whey protein to make these Rice Krispie Squares, then they’re perfect for before the gym or after the gym since the muscle repair and rebuilding process will start quickly. Additionally, whey protein powder contains a higher portion of the essential amino acid leucine, which also assists in the muscle protein synthesis process.
Whey protein is available in whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate. Whey protein isolate contains very little fat and carbohydrates making it mostly protein. This is because the lactose is taken out of the protein powder. However, whey protein isolate is the more expensive choice. On the other hand, whey protein concentrate has more grams of carbohydrate and fats per scoop with less protein, but it’s more economical. The problem here is that it may be more difficult for folks who don’t tolerate lactose to digest.
I’ve never actually used casein protein powder before, but I’ve read that whey protein is generally tastier and mixes better. Since we’re making a drizzle with the protein powder, consistency will be key here!
Of course, if you’re serious about the gym and overall health, it really boils down to overall protein intake throughout the day, but these are some points to consider if you really want to enjoy these Protein Rice Krispies Treats as a workout snack! If you want to learn more about the difference of casein protein and whey protein, check out this article.
Plant-based protein powders are available in the forms of soy protein, quinoa protein, chia seed protein, alfalfa protein, pumpkin seed protein, sunflower seed protein, brown rice protein, pea protein, hemp protein, or a blend of different vegan or plant-based proteins. You can learn more about plant-based protein powders here.
I’ve never used a plant-based protein powder for cooking or baking, but I’ve had a sample in a smoothie. I’ve noticed that it was definitely thicker and took more effort to mix. However, this is based on one experience, and I can’t really speak on plant-based protein. If you have any recommendations please let me know!
At the end of the day, as I mention in my Make Cooking Fun!! free guide to get you motivated in the kitchen, use what you have! Ultimately, I don’t want you running out to the store to get any certain type of protein powder if you’ve already got one (or two, or more!) on hand. Use what you’ve got and experiment Be sure to let me know in the comments what’s worked best for you!
Why Did the Protein Rice Krispies Treats Turn out Soggy?▼
Humidity can cause the cereal to go soggy so make sure to store the rice krispies in an airtight container to retain the crispiness and freshness. Another factor can be the cereal turning mushy while mixing with the marshmallows. Take care to fold the mixture carefully to prevent breaking the cereal and ruining the crispiness in the squares.
Why Did The Rice Krispies Squares Turn out Hard?▼
One reason is that the marshmallows got dried out. This could either because your marshmallows were old and dried out, or you cooked them on too high of a heat and they dried out during that process. Secondly, your Rice Krispies cereal could have also been stale. Next, while you were mixing the marshmallows with the Rice Krispies, you heated the cereal for too long and didn’t take the pan off the heat soon enough. That would cause the cereal to become extra hard.
Can I use Marshmallow Fluff to Make Protein Rice Krispies Treats?▼
I’ve never tried this out so I can’t say for certain, but I don’t see why it wouldn’t work! I’ll have to try this out and write an update, but in the meanwhile if you want to experiment then go ahead and let me know if it does in fact work!
Are These Protein Rice Krispies Gluten-free?▼
If you’re using the Rice Krispies classic cereal to make these squares, then they’re not gluten-free. This cereal contains malt syrup as one of the ingredients, which is made from barley that contains gluten. However, there are off-brand gluten-free puffed rice cereals, and even Kelloggs’ has a gluten-free version of Rice Krispies cereal, so opt for one of those. While marshmallows themselves aren’t certified as gluten-free, there are no ingredients that contain gluten, so you should be fine. Ensure that your protein powder is gluten-free.
Can These Protein Rice Krispies Treats Be Vegan?▼
Yes, they can. There are vegan marshmallows that are available, so be sure to use those. Additionally, you can replace the butter by using olive oil, vegetable oil, or coconut oil. If you’re going to use coconut oil, keep in mind that there will be a mild coconut flavour in your Rice Krispie Treats - go for it if you want! Furthermore, make sure your protein powder is plant-based and your chocolate doesn’t contain dairy.
Tools Needed for Protein Rice Krispies Treats
- Mixing bowl: To melt the chocolate and to make our chocolate topping.
- Non-stick pan: To prepare the molten marshmallow and cereal mixture.
- Brownie pan: To transfer the marshmallow and cereal mixture into.
- Basting brush: To spread spray oil on the spatula and onto the pan so our squares don’t get stuck!
- Measuring cups: So that we know how much butter, cereal, marshmallows, and protein powder we’ll need.
- Spatula: To stir everything together.
- Chef’s knife: To cut your prepared Rice Krispies Squares.
- Cake cutter: I found this handy to gently get each square out of the pan.
- Ramekins: These can help to portion out your ingredients if you want to prep everything!
Ingredients for Protein Rice Krispies Treats
The FULL PRINTABLE recipe card is at the bottom of this post with all ingredient measurements and the instructions to save for later. You can also scale the recipe based on how many Rice Krispies Squares you want to make! Using my 9” by 9” baking sheet, this will make 9 large squares!
- Mini marshmallows: Our deliciously sweet binding for the butter and cereal! I just love melting the marshmallows, it’s so satisfying to watch! You could use mini or large, I don’t think it would make a difference.
- Rice Krispies: Or any puffed rice cereal you want to use. I went with the classic Rice Krispies since we’re making the squares, and I really wanted to be authentic! I used some other puffed rice the first (and only time prior) I’ve made Rice Krispies squares, and it just wasn’t the same!
- Milk: A little bit to mix into our chocolate topping.
- Protein powder: Your favourite protein powder. We’ll add some into the marshmallow mixture and for the chocolate topping.
- Dark chocolate: Any chocolate bar or even chocolate chips will work, but I’ll be using baker’s dark chocolate squares to make the chocolate topping.
- Vanilla extract: I find this such an essential ingredient for any dessert to really bring out a wonderful aroma! We’ll add a little bit into the marshmallow mixture.
- Butter: We’ll melt the butter with the marshmallows and cereal to bind it all together.
How to Make Protein Rice Krispies Treats
For the Rice Krispies
Heat a pan or pot on medium heat and then melt the butter.
Add the marshmallows and stir until the marshmallow melts completely.
Add 1 scoop of protein powder, followed by the crisped rice cereal.
Stir, then add the vanilla extract. Continue mixing until everything is well combined.
Take the pan off the heat and then brush a rectangular baking sheet with oil. Alternatively, you can add parchment paper and then brush paper instead.
Pour the mixture to the prepared pan and pat the rice krispies down until it is flat and flush with the pan. Moisten your hands with water to make this process much easier. Cool the rice krispies squares while your prepare the topping.
For the Chocolate Topping
Melt the chocolate either in the microwave or a double boiler. Add a splash of milk along with 1 scoop of protein.
Mix well until you get a smooth, thick and spreadable chocolate mix. Gradually add more milk if needed to achieve the correct consistency.
Remove the cool rice krispy squares from the pan and cut into squares.
Then, spread the chocolate mixture evenly over the top. Cool the finished squares in the fridge for 10-15 minutes.
Slice along the pre-cut lines again to cut the chocolate and enjoy.
Variations of Protein Rice Krispies Treats
- Switch up the chocolate: I’m going to use 60% dark chocolate, but you can using white or semi-sweet!
- Nutella: You can add homemade Nutella or store-bought Nutella into the marshmallow mixture, or for a drizzle on top!
- Chopped nuts: For some crunch, try adding some chopped peanuts, almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, or pistachios on top.
- Nut butter: You can mix in some peanut butter, almond butter, or even cashew butter with the marshmallows and/or to make a topping, such as a ganache or a drizzle.
- Cookies & cream: I definitely want to try these! Throw in some Oreos in the marshmallow mixture and on top!
- Cheesecake: Prepare a Cream Cheese Glaze for topping and serve with some fresh berries or even homemade jam on top!
- Other garnishes: You could do sea salt flakes, coconut flakes, M&M’s, sprinkles, more marshmallows (bonus points for roasting them with a flambe torch!) or a drizzle of Caramel Sauce, or Chocolate Mocha Syrup.
- Coffee: Feeling like some delicious cappuccino flavour in your Rice Krispies Treats? You can add in some instant coffee You can use instant coffee or espresso powder, depending on what you have on hand. You can even use a decaf version if you just want the flavour but no caffeine - perfect if you’re enjoying these before bed!
Tips for Crispy and Chewy Rice Krispies Squares
- Heat the marshmallows gently. Heating the marshmallows on too high of a heat will result in the marshmallows drying out. If they dry out, it will be more difficult to mix the cereal with the marshmallows, and the final product will not be chewy and it will become too hard.
- Spray the spatula with spray oil or brush on butter or olive oil. Because the marshmallow mixture is so sticky, if the spatula is not greased, a large amount will be on the spatula and it will be difficult to get off.
- Wet your hands when patting the Rice Krispies on the pan. This will allow you to easily shape the Rice Krispies Treats into the pan.
- Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the squares when it’s time to cut them.
When to Eat Protein-Packed Rice Krispies Treats
You can have your Rice Krispies Treats whenever! These Rice Krispies treats are a great source of simple carbohydrates and also contain a fair amount of protein, making them a great pre-workout or post-workout snack. Of course, you can enjoy them for dessert or an afternoon snack too! To pair with your Protein-Packed Rice Krispies Treats, try a tasty hot drink, ranging from your favourite latte (for a very special one, try a Cookies & Cream Oreo Latte), cappuccino such as my Cocoa Cappuccino, or tea like a Turmeric Chai Latte. If you want a cold drink, a simple glass of milk will provide you even more protein! You could also try your favourite smoothie (mine is a refreshing Mango Lassi!) or for some cold coffee, you could make an Iced Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso.
Storing Rice Krispies Squares
Because we’ve added milk to the chocolate protein topping, you should store your Protein-Packed Rice Krispie Squares in the fridge in an airtight container. When the chocolate topping has completely set, transfer them into an airtight container. You could also wrap the individual squares with plastic wrap. Because of the butter and milk in the Rice Krispies Squares, you can keep them in the fridge for 3-4 days.
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