Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Lemon Meringue Rice Krispie Treats

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Sunshine in a square! These zesty Lemon Meringue Rice Krispie Treats deliver tartness and satisfying crunch, elevated by fresh lemon zest. Quick stovetop melt method.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick)
  • Mini Marshmallows: 10 ounces (for the base)
  • Rice Krispies Cereal: 6 cups
  • Fresh Lemon Zest: 1 tablespoon (from 2 medium lemons)
  • Lemon Extract: 1 teaspoon
  • Marshmallow Cream (Fluff): 7 ounces (1 standard jar)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly with butter or line it with parchment paper, allowing an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. Step 2: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, add the 10 ounces of mini marshmallows and stir continuously until smooth and fully melted. Remove the pan from the heat.
  3. Step 3: Quickly stir in the lemon zest and lemon extract until combined. Add the 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal and fold gently with a spatula until the cereal is completely coated with the lemon marshmallow mixture.
  4. Step 4: Transfer the mixture immediately to the prepared pan. Using a piece of wax paper or a lightly buttered spatula, gently press the mixture evenly into the pan. Allow the treats to cool and set for about 30 minutes at room temperature.
  5. Step 5: Once the base is set, carefully warm the jar of Marshmallow Cream (Fluff) in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to make it spreadable. Evenly spread the entire 7 ounces of fluff over the top of the treats to create the "meringue" layer.
  6. Step 6: Allow the treats to set completely (about 1 hour) before slicing into squares and serving.

Notes

  • Store the treats tightly covered at room temperature for up to three days, ensuring they are kept airtight to prevent the meringue-style fluff topping from hardening or drying out.
  • If the treats become too stiff after a day or two, avoid microwaving the squares whole; instead, let them sit in an airtight container near a slightly warm spot for 10-15 minutes to gently soften the base.
  • For an elegant finish, dust the treats lightly with powdered sugar before serving, and consider adding a small curl of fresh lemon zest on each square to emphasize the bright flavor.
  • When pressing the warm cereal mixture into the pan, remember to press gently, using just enough pressure to fill the pan—over-compacting the treats makes them hard and less chewy.
  • Author: Kristin Romick
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American