Easter Rice Krispies Nests

This delightful Easter Rice Krispie Treats recipe transforms a classic treat into festive spring nests that kids and adults both love. The combination of crunchy cereal cups, creamy frosting, and colorful candy eggs creates an irresistible holiday dessert that's as fun to make as it is to eat.

I first made these with my nieces during a rainy Easter weekend when we needed an indoor activity. Their faces lit up when they saw the finished treats, and now we have a yearly tradition of making these sweet little nests together while waiting for the Easter Bunny.

Ingredients

• 16 ounces marshmallows: Fresh marshmallows yield the softest treats. Either jumbo or mini work perfectly
• 7 cups Rice Krispies cereal: The classic provides just the right crunch and shape for the nests
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates richness and helps prevent sticking
• Easter Egg Candies: Choose small chocolate eggs in various colors for the most festive appearance
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter for frosting: Room temperature butter creates the smoothest frosting
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar: Sift first for the most velvety texture
• 1/4 cup milk: Whole milk gives the richest flavor but any type works
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure vanilla rather than imitation makes a noticeable flavor difference
• Green food coloring: Gel food coloring provides vibrant color without thinning the frosting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pans:

Thoroughly grease standard cupcake pans using cooking spray or butter. Pay special attention to the corners where the treats tend to stick. This step is crucial for easy removal later.

Melt the Base:

Place marshmallows and butter in a large microwave safe bowl. Heat for approximately 2 minutes total but stop every 30 seconds to stir. Watch carefully to ensure the marshmallows expand without overflowing. The mixture should be completely smooth with no lumps remaining.

Create the Mixture:

Add the Rice Krispies to the melted marshmallow mixture. Fold gently but thoroughly with a buttered spatula until every piece of cereal is evenly coated. Work quickly as the mixture begins to set fast.

Form the Nests:

Spoon the Rice Krispie mixture into the greased cupcake cavities. Press down the centers gently using a piece of wax paper to create an indentation for the frosting. Fill each cup about 3/4 full to leave room for the frosting nest.

Setting Time:

Allow the treats to set completely for 30 minutes at room temperature. This ensures they hold their shape when removed from the pans.

Prepare the Frosting:

Beat the room temperature butter until creamy. Add 2 cups of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Mix on medium speed for approximately 5 minutes until completely smooth. Gradually incorporate the remaining powdered sugar until desired consistency is reached. Add green food coloring drop by drop until you achieve the perfect grass color.

Assemble the Nests:

Pipe green frosting onto the cooled Rice Krispie cups using a grass tip for the most realistic effect. Start from the outside and work your way to the center. Place 2-3 candy eggs in each frosting nest. The treats are ready to serve immediately.

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The marshmallow to cereal ratio in this recipe creates the perfect texture that holds together without being too sticky or too crumbly. I once tried reducing the marshmallows to make them healthier and ended up with nests that fell apart before they even made it to the table. Trust me on this one the full amount of marshmallows is absolutely worth it.

Storage Tips

These treats stay fresh at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. I recommend placing parchment paper between layers if you need to stack them. Avoid refrigerating as this can make the Rice Krispie base hard and the frosting too firm. If you want to make them further ahead, prepare the Rice Krispie cups and freeze them unfrosted for up to 3 weeks. Thaw at room temperature before decorating with fresh frosting and candies.

Creative Variations

While green grass nests are traditional for Easter, you can easily customize these treats for other occasions. Try pink or blue frosting for baby showers with tiny candy pacifiers instead of eggs. For birthday parties, use colored frosting matching the theme and top with small candies or sprinkles. Halloween versions can feature orange frosting with candy corn or small chocolate spiders. The basic Rice Krispie cup creates an endless canvas for seasonal decorating.

Serving Suggestions

These cute Easter nests make a perfect addition to any spring gathering. Place them on a decorative cake stand as a centerpiece for your Easter brunch table. Alternatively, wrap individual nests in clear cellophane tied with pastel ribbon for a charming take home favor for guests. They pair wonderfully with fresh fruit and spring punches for a complete dessert spread that balances the sweetness of the treats.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use store-bought frosting instead of making it?

Yes, you can use store-bought frosting to save time. However, homemade buttercream frosting adds a fresh and creamy touch that enhances the flavor.

→ What alternative candies can I use for the eggs?

Instead of egg candies, you can use jelly beans, chocolate eggs, or any small, colorful candies to decorate the nests.

→ How do I prevent the Rice Krispies mixture from sticking to my hands?

To avoid sticking, grease your hands or use wax paper to press the mixture into the cupcake pan.

→ Can I make these treats ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the nests a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container, but wait to pipe the frosting and add candies until just before serving for best results.

→ Can I use food coloring other than green for the frosting?

Absolutely! You can use any color to match different themes or occasions, making these treats versatile for other celebrations.