Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Sweet & Zesty Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Pink lemonade revolutionizes ordinary rice Krispie treats into a vibrant, summery sensation that sparkles with unexpected flavor.

Sweet and tangy notes dance across this classic dessert, creating a playful twist on the traditional marshmallow square.

Childhood nostalgia meets grown-up creativity in this whimsical recipe that surprises and delights.

Soft, gooey textures combine with bright citrus undertones, offering a refreshing take on a beloved comfort food.

Delicate pink hues make these treats as visually stunning as they are delicious, perfect for parties or casual snacking.

Lightweight and crispy, these treats bring a burst of sunshine to any gathering or quiet afternoon moment.

You’ll fall in love with this innovative dessert that reimagines a familiar favorite.

Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats That Pop with Flavor

  • Burst of Citrusy Sunshine: These Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats bring a zesty, bright flavor that transforms the classic childhood snack into a tangy summer delight.
  • Super Quick Sweet Hack: Whip up these treats in just 15 minutes, making them perfect for spontaneous dessert cravings or last-minute party preparations.
  • Playful Pastel Presentation: The vibrant pink color and lemon zest create a fun, eye-catching treat that adds a pop of color to any dessert spread or picnic table.
  • Nostalgic Twist on Comfort Food: By combining the beloved Rice Krispie treat with pink lemonade flavor, this recipe offers a creative remix of a traditional favorite that sparks joy and childhood memories.

What You’ll Need for Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats

Base Ingredients:
  • Butter: Rich and creamy fat that helps bind the treats and adds a smooth texture.
  • Marshmallows: Soft, sweet binding agent that creates the sticky base for the treats.
  • Rice Krispies Cereal: Crispy, light base that provides the classic crunchy texture.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Pink Lemonade Powdered Mix: Tangy, fruity flavor that gives the treats a bright pink lemonade twist.
  • Lemon Zest: Fresh, citrusy accent that adds bright, zesty notes to the treats.
  • Salt: Small pinch to balance and enhance the overall sweetness.
Color and Decoration:
  • Red Food Coloring: Optional addition to intensify the pink color and make the treats more vibrant.

Steps for Making Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Surface

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan using butter or non-stick cooking spray. Set the pan aside for later use.

Step 2: Create Marshmallow Base

In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter completely. Add marshmallows and stir until they transform into a smooth, silky mixture.

Step 3: Infuse Pink Lemonade Flavor

Mix in the powdered pink lemonade mix and red food coloring. Stir vigorously until the mixture reaches a vibrant pink hue and all ingredients blend seamlessly.

Step 4: Combine Crispy Elements

Remove the pan from heat. Add the following ingredients:
  • Rice Krispies cereal
  • Lemon zest
  • Pinch of salt

Gently fold the ingredients until every crisp is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture.

Step 5: Shape and Settle

Using a buttered spatula or wax paper, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Allow the treats to cool and set for approximately 30 minutes at room temperature.

Step 6: Slice and Enjoy

Once completely cooled, slice the treats into squares or fun shapes. Serve and savor the tangy, sweet sensation of these pink lemonade treats.

Tips for Bright, Tart Rice Krispie Squares

  • Grease with Care: Use soft butter or non-stick spray to coat the pan evenly, ensuring treats won't stick and come out cleanly.
  • Marshmallow Melting Magic: Keep heat low and stir constantly to prevent burning, creating a smooth, silky base for your treats.
  • Color and Flavor Balance: Add pink lemonade mix gradually and taste, adjusting for the perfect tangy-sweet profile without overwhelming sweetness.
  • Mixing Mastery: Fold cereal gently but thoroughly, ensuring every piece gets coated with the marshmallow mixture for consistent texture.
  • Cooling Technique: Let treats set at room temperature, avoiding refrigeration to maintain a soft, chewy consistency that doesn't become hard.

How to Keep Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats Crisp

  • Refrigerate: Wrap Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats individually in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent them from getting too hard.
  • Room Temperature: Keep treats at room temperature in a sealed container for 1-2 days, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. This method helps preserve their soft, chewy texture.
  • Freezing Option: Layer treats between wax paper in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 weeks. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before enjoying for the best taste and texture.

Snacks and Drinks That Pair with These Rice Krispies

  • Citrus Cocktail Companion: Pair these pink lemonade Rice Krispie treats with a chilled vodka-based lemonade cocktail that echoes the tangy, sweet flavor profile of the dessert.
  • Refreshing Beverage Match: Serve alongside a cold glass of sparkling pink lemonade or a light, crisp white wine like a Pinot Grigio to complement the treat's zesty notes.
  • Creamy Contrast Pairing: Balance the treat's sweetness with a scoop of lemon sorbet or a dollop of whipped cream to create a delightful textural and flavor contrast.
  • Summer Picnic Sidekick: Pair with fresh summer berries like strawberries or raspberries to enhance the pink lemonade theme and add a burst of natural fruity freshness.

Flavor Additions for Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats

  • Tropical Splash: Replace pink lemonade mix with passion fruit powder and add shredded coconut for a vibrant, island-inspired treat.
  • Raspberry Zing: Swap pink lemonade mix for raspberry drink mix and sprinkle freeze-dried raspberry pieces on top for extra fruity flavor.
  • Citrus Burst: Use orange lemonade mix and add orange zest to create a bright, sunny version of the classic Rice Krispie treat.
  • Strawberry Fields: Mix in strawberry drink powder and garnish with mini white chocolate chips for a sweet, berry-infused dessert.
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Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Pink Lemonade Rice Krispie Treats Recipe


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4.6 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Pink lemonade rice krispie treats bring a zesty twist to classic marshmallow squares. Cheerful pink hues and tangy lemon flavor make these nostalgic treats a delightful summer dessert that sparks joy and memories.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
  • 1 package (10 ounces / 283 grams) marshmallows
  • 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) unsalted butter

Flavoring Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup (60 milliliters) powdered pink lemonade mix
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Finishing Ingredients:

  • Red food coloring (optional)
  • 1 pinch salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by generously coating the interior with butter or non-stick spray, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
  2. Select a large saucepan and place it over low heat. Gently melt the butter until it transforms into a smooth, liquid consistency.
  3. Gradually add marshmallows to the melted butter, stirring continuously until they dissolve completely and create a uniform, silky mixture.
  4. Incorporate the pink lemonade powder mix into the marshmallow base, blending thoroughly to distribute the tangy flavor evenly.
  5. If desired, enhance the vibrant pink hue by adding a few drops of red food coloring, stirring until the color becomes consistent throughout the mixture.
  6. Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately introduce Rice Krispies cereal, lemon zest, and a delicate pinch of salt to the marshmallow blend.
  7. Fold the ingredients together with a spatula, ensuring every cereal piece becomes thoroughly coated with the pink lemonade marshmallow mixture.
  8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, using a buttered spatula or wax paper to press and spread the treats evenly, creating a smooth, compact surface.
  9. Allow the treats to cool and set at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes, enabling them to firm up and become easily sliceable.
  10. Once completely cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the treats into uniform squares or playful shapes, ready to serve and enjoy.

Notes

  • Elevate your dessert game with this zesty, colorful twist on classic Rice Krispie treats that brings a burst of tangy lemonade flavor.
  • Greasing the pan beforehand ensures easy removal and prevents sticky situations when cutting your treats.
  • Use low heat when melting marshmallows to avoid burning and achieve a smooth, creamy base for your no-bake dessert.
  • Pink lemonade mix transforms ordinary treats into a vibrant, summery snack that’s perfect for parties, picnics, or afternoon cravings.
  • Let the treats cool completely for clean, crisp cuts and the best texture that holds its shape.
  • Optional lemon zest adds an extra punch of citrusy brightness that complements the sweet marshmallow mixture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts, Drinks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 90 mg
  • Fat: 3.5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 10 mg
David Bennett

David Bennett

Founder & Head Recipe Developer

Expertise

Culinary Nutrition​, Recipe Development​, Nutritional Counseling​, Food Science​

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Nutrition
  • Focus: Blending culinary arts with nutritional science to create health-focused cuisine.

Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS®)

  • Credential: Advanced certification in personalized nutrition therapy. ​

David Bennett is the lead recipe creator and nutrition expert at HealthyChoices.org, your friendly space for tasty meals that nourish body and mind. 

With a Culinary Nutrition degree from Johnson & Wales University and a Certified Nutrition Specialist® credential, David pairs practical nutrition with delicious cooking, creating recipes you’ll crave daily. 

At Healthy Choices, David shares easy, nutritious dishes and smart cooking tips to make healthy eating something everyone can enjoy, with no complicated diets needed.

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