No-Bake Grinch Krispie Treats
Looking for a Christmas treat that’s as cute as it is delicious? These Grinch Krispies are bursting with holiday cheer—bright green, loaded with gooey marshmallow goodness, and topped with candy hearts that even the Grinch himself would love.
The holidays are the perfect time for festive, fun, and easy treats—and these Grinch Krispies are just that! Inspired by everyone’s favorite green Christmas character, these no-bake cereal bars are tinted Grinchy green and topped with red candy hearts to bring a little holiday cheer (and maybe a few extra smiles).
This Grinch Krispies recipe is my go-to when I want something playful and sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s gooey, crispy, and just the right amount of nostalgic.
The melted marshmallows pair beautifully with the buttery base for an irresistible chewy crunch. Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to make—just melt, stir, press, decorate, and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients, big holiday impact!
- Perfect for Christmas parties, bake sales, or school treats.
- Great for making with kids—it’s fun and mess-friendly!
Ingredients Needed
This festive treat might look fancy, but it’s made with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up a batch of Grinch Krispies. Be sure to check the recipe card below for exact amounts and step-by-step instructions.
- Butter – You’ll need just three tablespoons. Melt it slowly over low heat to help the marshmallows blend smoothly. Unsalted butter works best.
- Mini Marshmallows – These melt down into the sticky-sweet base. Use fresh marshmallows for the best texture—stale ones won’t melt as well.
- Rice Krispies Cereal – The classic crispy crunch! Measure accurately so the mixture holds together without becoming too dry.
- Green Food Coloring – Adds that iconic Grinchy green color. Start with nine drops, and add more if needed for a bolder hue. Gel food coloring gives the most vibrant color.
- Red Candy Hearts – Use 20 large hearts for the center of each square. They give the treat its signature Grinch look.
- Medium Candy Hearts – Two per square, placed around each large heart to create a layered heart effect.
- Small Heart Sprinkles – These tiny hearts sprinkle a little holiday magic across the top.
How to Make Grinch Krispies
No need to stress—these Grinch Krispies come together with just a few simple steps and are easier than they look. You’ll find the full printable recipe and instructions in the card below.
- Prep. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Lightly butter your spatula to prevent sticking.
- Melt. In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter completely.
- Stir. Add the marshmallows and stir continuously until melted and smooth. Stir in the green food coloring until it is fully combined.
- Mix. Remove from the heat and stir in the Rice Krispies cereal. Mix until evenly coated. (Add a few more drops of food coloring if needed for a bolder green.)
- Press. Using a buttered spatula, firmly press the mixture into your prepared pan in an even layer.
- Decorate. While still slightly warm, press in 20 large candy hearts—4 across and 5 down. Add two medium hearts around each large one, then sprinkle the tiny heart sprinkles all around for that signature Grinch look.
- Chill. Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to make cutting easier.
- Cut and Serve. Lift the Krispies from the pan using the parchment paper, transfer to a cutting board, and slice into even squares. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Make Ahead – These can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container.
- Color Tips – Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant green without thinning the mixture.
- Decoration Tips – Press the candy hearts in gently while the mixture is still warm so they stick well.
Serving Suggestions
These Grinch Krispies are perfect for adding a touch of holiday fun to any festive gathering. Serve them at Christmas parties, school celebrations, cookie exchanges, or as a special treat during a family movie night featuring How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
They also make adorable edible gifts—just wrap them in clear cellophane bags with a festive ribbon. For an extra cute presentation, arrange them on a holiday dessert tray alongside other themed goodies.
How to Store
- Counter: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Fridge: Not required, but it can help them stay firmer—store in a sealed container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! You can make them a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container until ready to serve.
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini? Yes—just use 40 large marshmallows to equal about 10 oz.
Can I skip the food coloring? Sure, they’ll still taste great, but they won’t have the classic Grinchy green look.
And that’s it! These Grinch Krispies are the no-stress treat that looks impressive but comes together so easily. Whether you’re making them for a Christmas party, movie night, or just for fun, they’re sure to bring holiday cheer!
More Tasty Holiday Treat Recipes
Grinch Krispies
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 10 oz mini marshmallows
- 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 9 drops green food coloring add more if needed
- 20 large red candy hearts
- 40 medium red candy hearts
- 1 tablespoon small heart sprinkles
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
- Add mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Stir in green food coloring, then remove from heat.
- Add Rice Krispies cereal and stir until well coated. Add more food coloring if needed to enhance the green color.
- Using a buttered spatula, press the mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch pan lined with parchment paper.
- While still slightly warm, press 20 large candy hearts evenly across the top (4 across and 5 down).
- Add two medium hearts around each large heart, then sprinkle the small heart sprinkles all over.
- Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to firm up.
- Lift from pan, transfer to a cutting board, cut into squares, and enjoy!
