Crispy rice marshmallow treats are a hit all year round. At this time of year, shaping them into pumpkins makes for a fun activity.
Pumpkin-Shaped Crispy Rice Treats
- 6 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1 package (10 oz) marshmallows or 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 4 Tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- Food coloring (about 4 drops of red and 10 drops of yellow)
- Green gummy candies
Melt the butter in a heavy pan and slowly melt in the marshmallows. Add the vanilla and food coloring. Stir in the rice cereal and remove from heat. If smaller kids are involved pour mixture into a cool bowl.
Allow mixture to cool just a bit (it will be easier for you to handle and will hold its shape better). Scoop out about a tablespoon at a time and, using greased hands, shape into pumpkins. Children who don't enjoy messy hands may prefer wearing greased gloves or baggies on their hands. Cooking spray works well here or you can use butter or coconut oil to keep the mixture from sticking to your hands.
Insert a gummy stem and, if you like, add a leaf and faces with frosting or gummy/candy pieces.
