Description
Looking for a quick, fun dessert to spark up your Fourth of July celebration? These Fourth of July Rice Krispie Treats are the perfect answer! These no-bake treats transform classic Rice Krispie squares into patriotic pops with a dip of white chocolate, a drizzle of blue, and a burst of red and blue M&Ms and sprinkles.
Ingredients
The Fourth of July Rice Krispie Treats come together with a handful of ingredients that create a crunchy, sweet, and colorful dessert. Here’s what you’ll need and why each matters:
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Rice Krispie Squares (6, original, store-bought or homemade):
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The crispy, chewy base of the treat, providing a familiar texture that holds up well when dipped.
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Substitution: Homemade Rice Krispie treats (use a standard recipe: 3 tbsp butter, 10 oz marshmallows, 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal) cut into 6 squares, or other cereal bars.
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White Candy Melts (6 oz):
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Form a smooth, sweet coating that sets firmly and showcases the patriotic toppings.
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Substitution: White chocolate chips with 1 tsp vegetable oil per cup for easier melting, or white baking chocolate.
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Blue Candy Melts (1 oz):
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Add a vibrant blue drizzle for the patriotic color scheme, creating a firework-like effect.
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Substitution: Blue food coloring mixed with white candy melts or melted white chocolate.
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Red and Blue M&Ms (as desired):
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Provide a crunchy, chocolatey pop of color that reinforces the red and blue theme.
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Substitution: Red and blue jelly beans, Skittles, or other small candies.
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Red and Blue Sprinkles (as desired):
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Add a festive, sparkly finish that mimics fireworks.
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Substitution: Patriotic non-pareils, jimmies, or star-shaped sprinkles, or white sprinkles for contrast.
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4-Inch Lollipop Sticks (6, optional):
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Make the treats portable and fun to eat, turning them into dessert pops.
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Substitution: Wooden skewers or omit for standard hand-held treats.
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Tip: Use store-bought Rice Krispie squares for speed, and ensure candy melts are fresh for smooth melting.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Treats
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Unwrap 6 original Rice Krispie squares (or cut homemade treats into 6 even squares).
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If using, gently insert a 4-inch lollipop stick into the center of one short end of each square, pushing halfway through to secure.
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to place the dipped treats on for setting.
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Tip: Ensure squares are at room temperature to prevent crumbling when inserting sticks.
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Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate
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In a medium microwave-safe bowl, melt 6 oz white candy melts in 15-second intervals, stirring between each until completely smooth (about 45–60 seconds total).
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Tip: Stir thoroughly to avoid overheating, which can cause the chocolate to seize. If too thick, add ½ tsp vegetable oil to thin.
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Step 3: Dip the Treats
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Dip half of each Rice Krispie square into the melted white chocolate, covering one side and letting excess drip back into the bowl.
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Place the dipped treats on the parchment-lined baking sheet, chocolate side up.
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Tip: Use a spoon to help coat evenly, and tap gently to remove excess chocolate for a clean finish.
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Step 4: Add Blue Drizzle
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In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 oz blue candy melts in 15-second intervals, stirring until smooth (about 30–45 seconds).
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Drizzle the blue chocolate over the white chocolate on each treat using a spoon or a small piping bag for precision.
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Tip: Work quickly, as candy melts set fast. If the blue chocolate thickens, reheat briefly.
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Step 5: Decorate
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While the chocolate is still wet, press red and blue M&Ms into the chocolate to ensure they stick (about 3–5 per treat, depending on size).
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Sprinkle red and blue sprinkles over the chocolate for a festive sparkle, focusing on the dipped area.
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Have M&Ms and sprinkles ready in small bowls for quick application.
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Tip: Vary the placement of M&Ms and sprinkles for a dynamic, firework-like look.
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Step 6: Chill and Serve
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Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to let the chocolate harden completely.
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Remove from the fridge and serve at room temperature for the best texture.
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Tip: If serving outdoors, keep treats cool until ready to prevent chocolate from melting.
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