If you have a soft spot for both crispy treats and classic sugar cookies, you are going to fall head over heels for this Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies Recipe. These cookies bring the perfect harmony of tender, buttery sugar cookie dough with the delightful crunch of Rice Krispies cereal baked right in. It’s like your favorite childhood snack reinvented into a nostalgic cookie that’s irresistibly fun to bake and even more fun to share. Whether you’re whipping these up for a playful afternoon treat or a festive party platter, these cookies bring a unique texture and light sweetness that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies Recipe are simple staples, but each one plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the creamy butter that adds richness to the crisp Rice Krispies that give you that signature crunch, every ingredient counts.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a creamy base and tender crumb for the cookies.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps create a slight crispness on the outside.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and adds moisture for softness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cookie flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookie’s structure, giving it body and chew.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Provides subtle lift and spread control during baking.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups Rice Krispies cereal: Adds that iconic crispy crunch that makes these cookies stand out.
- Optional: 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or sprinkles: Adds extra sweetness and a fun visual pop to your cookies.
How to Make Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and release easily without sticking. Setting up properly from the beginning makes the whole process smoother.
Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes with a mixer. This step is key to producing tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Mix in the large egg and vanilla extract until everything is thoroughly combined. These ingredients bring moisture and that classic cookie flavor that will have everyone asking for more.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures even distribution of these dry ingredients, which helps your cookies rise evenly and not taste flat or salty in spots.
Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet butter mixture. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overwork the dough. Overmixing can make cookies tough instead of tender.
Step 6: Fold in Rice Krispies (and Optional Add-Ins)
Gently fold the Rice Krispies cereal into the dough. If you’d like, this is also the time to add white chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles for extra fun and flavor. The Rice Krispies will give your cookies an irresistible crunch that surprises with every bite.
Step 7: Shape and Bake
Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto your prepared parchment-lined sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each slightly with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass so they bake evenly. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are golden but the centers remain soft.
Step 8: Cool Completely
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time helps them firm up just right without losing softness inside.
How to Serve Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies are charming on their own, but if you want to make them look even more inviting, sprinkle a pinch of colored sugar or a light drizzle of melted white chocolate on top. Adding a simple dusting of powdered sugar can also add a rustic charm and subtle sweetness.
Side Dishes
Serve these Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies with a glass of cold milk, a hot cup of coffee, or even a warm chai latte for a comforting treat. Their crisp but tender texture pairs beautifully with creamy or spiced beverages, making snack time a complete experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these cookies into gifts by stacking them in a clear jar tied with a ribbon. You can also sandwich some frosting or marshmallow fluff between two cookies for a delightful twist. For parties, arrange them on a festive platter alongside other colorful treats to make a striking dessert display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to 5 days. Keeping them sealed properly preserves their crunch and prevents them from becoming stale or too soft.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready for a sweet treat.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy a freshly baked flavor, warm the cookies in a 300°F oven for a few minutes or microwave them for about 10 seconds. This brings back their soft center and toasty edges, making every bite feel freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use other cereals instead of Rice Krispies in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Rice Krispies are traditional and offer that classic crunch, you can try other cereals like Cocoa Krispies or even cornflakes for unique flavors and textures. Just keep in mind that different cereals may affect the cookie’s crispness.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
The original Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies Recipe calls for all-purpose flour which contains gluten. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends to make them suitable for gluten-sensitive guests, but results might vary slightly.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make these cookies vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and use a flax egg or other egg replacer. Ensure any optional add-ins like chocolate chips are vegan-friendly too.
Why do the cookies need to be slightly flattened before baking?
Flattening the cookie dough balls ensures they bake evenly and spread into that perfect cookie shape. It also prevents them from puffing up too much so you get a nice balance of chewiness and crunch.
What is the best way to keep the Rice Krispies crunchy in the cookie?
Adding Rice Krispies last and folding them gently into the dough helps preserve their crispness. Also, baking just until the edges turn golden helps prevent over-baking, which can make the cereal soggy inside.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a cookie that’s both playful and comforting, the Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies Recipe is your new go-to. It’s easy to make, full of nostalgic flavor, and perfect for sharing moments with friends and family. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite cookie!
Print
Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies combine the light, crispy texture of Rice Krispies cereal with a classic vanilla sugar cookie base. Perfectly golden and slightly crunchy, they make a delightful treat for cookie fans looking for a fun twist on a traditional sugar cookie.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Mix-ins
- 1 1/2 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- Optional: 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using a mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial for a tender cookie texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg followed by the vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar mixture, mixing until well combined to add moisture and flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, blending gently until fully incorporated to form a consistent dough.
- Fold in Rice Krispies: Carefully fold the Rice Krispies cereal and any optional mix-ins like white chocolate chips or sprinkles into the dough, ensuring even distribution without crushing the cereal.
- Shape Cookies: Using a tablespoon, scoop balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Flatten each slightly with your fingers or the back of a spoon for an even baked cookie shape.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges of the cookies turn a golden brown color, indicating they are done.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving, allowing the texture to fully develop.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with sugar.
- Do not overmix the dough once the flour is added to prevent tough cookies.
- Rice Krispies add a light crunch; handle gently to avoid breaking them.
- Optional add-ins like white chocolate chips or sprinkles add extra sweetness and color.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
