Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies Recipe
Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, blending the unbeatable sweet comfort of sugar cookies with the irresistibly crisp texture of Rice Krispies cereal. Each bite bursts with a playful crunch that sets these cookies apart, making them a nostalgic treat for the young at heart and the perfect crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whip them up when you want something simple, cheerful, and just a bit unique—these are sure to be everyone’s new obsession!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be thrilled by how easy yet special this recipe truly is. Every ingredient plays a starring role, creating that perfect balance of buttery richness, delicate sweetness, and oh-so-crunchy texture in your Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies.
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): Gives your cookies a luxurious, tender crumb and deep flavor—make sure it’s at room temperature for the fluffiest texture.
- Granulated Sugar (1 cup): The heart of all great sugar cookies, it brings just the right amount of sweetness and helps create those lightly golden edges.
- Large Egg (1): Acts as the ultimate binder, ensuring your cookies stay chewy and never too crumbly.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, aromatic background that makes every bite taste like home.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): Lays the foundation for structure without weighing down the cookies.
- Baking Soda (½ teaspoon): Helps your cookies rise just enough for a light, tender texture.
- Baking Powder (½ teaspoon): Teams up with the baking soda for the perfect lift—no flat cookies here!
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): A tiny pinch, but totally essential to intensify flavors and balance out sweetness.
- Rice Krispies Cereal (1½ cups): The star ingredient! Adds the magical crunch that defines Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies, so fold them in gently.
How to Make Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line one or two baking sheets with parchment paper—this keeps cleanup breezy and ensures your cookies don’t stick. Taking a few seconds to set the stage properly makes the whole process much smoother.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter together with the sugar. You’re aiming for a light and fluffy texture, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes with a hand or stand mixer. This step is crucial for achieving those perfectly soft Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies with irresistibly tender centers.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything looks smooth and well combined. This not only binds your dough but infuses every bite with lovely, warm vanilla notes that really set off the delicate sweetness of these cookies.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of all the leaveners and salt, so your Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies bake up consistently every time.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix gently, just until the flour disappears—over-mixing can make cookies tough, so stop as soon as you see a cohesive dough. You’re now halfway to cookie bliss!
Step 6: Fold in Rice Krispies
Pour in the Rice Krispies cereal and gently fold them into the dough. Take care not to crush them too much; you want every cookie to have those satisfying crispy bits that make Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies so special.
Step 7: Shape and Bake
Scoop up tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Arrange on your baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart, then gently flatten each ball with your palm or the bottom of a glass. Bake for 10–12 minutes, just until the edges are lightly golden—don’t overbake! Let them cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
How to Serve Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies
Garnishes
Want to jazz up your Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies? A quick sprinkle of rainbow sprinkles or mini white chocolate chips before baking makes them extra festive. For a simple finish, dust just-cooled cookies with a little powdered sugar—it adds a pretty touch and irresistible sweetness.
Side Dishes
These cookies are perfect alongside a cold glass of milk, a creamy mug of hot cocoa, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert heaven. If you’re serving these at a party, add a bowl of fresh berries for a colorful and refreshing counterpoint.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking a few Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies and tying them up with twine for a sweet homemade gift. Layer them in a decorative tin or jar for a charming hostess present. For parties, create a “cookie dunk bar” with different dips—think melted chocolate, caramel, or a tangy fruit sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll keep their crunch and flavor for up to four days, making them handy for lunchboxes and late-night snacking alike.
Freezing
These cookies freeze beautifully! Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to three months—just thaw at room temperature whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
If you want to bring back a little of that just-baked warmth, pop a cookie in the microwave for about 5-10 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as you only want to revive the softness without melting the sugars or making the cereal soggy.
FAQs
Can I use another cereal instead of Rice Krispies?
While Rice Krispies bring that iconic airy crunch, you can experiment with other puffed rice cereals or similar substitutes. Just be mindful that the final texture and taste may change slightly—try to stick with plain varieties for the classic feel.
Why should I avoid over-mixing the dough?
Over-mixing cookie dough can develop too much gluten, leading to tougher cookies instead of that soft, tender bite we all crave in Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies. Mix just until everything is combined for the best results.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to stir in a handful of mini chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for a fun twist. Just keep extra additions under half a cup so the dough’s consistency stays perfect.
How do I keep the Rice Krispies crispy in the cookies?
Fold the Rice Krispies in gently and bake just until the edges set to help maintain their signature crunch. Storing the cookies in an airtight container right after they’ve cooled also helps preserve that delightful texture.
Can I make the dough ahead and bake later?
Definitely! Shape the dough into balls and chill them in the fridge for up to 48 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before baking as directed for fresh, warm Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies in no time.
Final Thoughts
With their playful crunch and cozy flavor, Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies are the perfect treat for family gatherings, bake sales, or whenever your sweet tooth strikes. I can’t wait for you to try them and experience just how fun (and addictive) these cookies can be!
Print
Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 30 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies, featuring a light crunch from the cereal. They are easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Additional:
- 1 ½ cups Rice Krispies cereal
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture.
- Add Rice Krispies: Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal.
- Shape and bake: Scoop dough into balls, flatten slightly, place on baking sheet, and bake for 10–12 minutes.
- Cool and enjoy: Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- These cookies have a light crunch from the Rice Krispies and a classic sugar cookie flavor.
- For a fun twist, add mini white chocolate chips or rainbow sprinkles.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
