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Easy Ghost-Shaped Rice Krispie Treats: Best Halloween Dessert

ghost-shaped rice krispie treats - featured image

These ghost-shaped Rice Krispie treats are a quick, easy, and adorable Halloween dessert made with simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for parties, school treats, or a fun family activity, they deliver a crispy-chewy texture and a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 package (10 ounces) regular marshmallows (or 4 cups mini marshmallows)
  • 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • ¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Non-stick cooking spray (for greasing)
  • Mini chocolate chips or candy eyes (for decorating)

Instructions

  1. Prepare your pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides. Lightly spray the parchment with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
  2. Melt the butter: In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, stirring occasionally. Do not let it brown.
  3. Add the marshmallows: Add the entire package of marshmallows to the melted butter. Stir constantly until completely melted and smooth, about 4-5 minutes.
  4. Season and flavor: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in ¼ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  5. Add the cereal: Pour in 6 cups of Rice Krispies cereal. Fold gently with a spatula until all cereal is evenly coated, being careful not to crush the cereal.
  6. Press into the pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Spray your hands with cooking spray and press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to about ¾-inch thickness. Let cool at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  7. Cut the shapes: Lift the treats out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Place on a cutting board. Dip a ghost-shaped cookie cutter in cold water or spray with cooking spray, then press firmly into the treats. Wiggle slightly to release. Repeat to get about 12-15 ghosts.
  8. Decorate the ghosts: While the treats are still slightly tacky, press two mini chocolate chips or candy eyes onto each ghost for eyes. If cooled completely, use a tiny dab of frosting or melted chocolate as glue. Let decorations set for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best texture, use fresh marshmallows. Let the mixture cool for 2 minutes before cutting to help the treats hold their shape. If the treats are too crumbly, melt marshmallows a bit longer; if too hard, press less firmly or avoid overcooking. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Freeze undecorated ghosts for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween treats, Rice Krispie treats, ghost-shaped, easy dessert, no-bake, kid-friendly, Halloween baking, marshmallow treats