As the leaves turn, and the air becomes crisp, I find myself yearning for the cozy flavors of fall. Picture this: a quick and delightful treat that captures the essence of a classic pumpkin pie but requires no baking at all! Enter my Mini Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats your new go-to no-bake dessert for Thanksgiving and Halloween festivities.
These easy-to-make treats blend the fluffy sweetness of marshmallows with the warm spices of pumpkin pie, creating an irresistible crunchy and chewy experience. They look like little pumpkin pies, making them a charming addition to any autumn gathering or a fun treat to whip up with the kids. Imagine the smiles as they sink their teeth into these adorable, mini bites of happiness, all while you bask in the joy of having prepared a dessert without the fuss. Let’s dive into this delicious fall adventure and delight everyone with these festive treats!
Why will you love these Mini Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats?
Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients and no baking required, you can whip these up in no time.
Festive Presentation: These treats mimic the look of traditional pumpkin pies, adding a touch of charm to any dessert table.
Kid-Friendly: Perfect for involving little chefs in the kitchen, making special memories while creating tasty delights.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of marshmallows, butter, and pumpkin pie spice delivers a deliciously sweet and spiced bite that will have everyone coming back for more.
Versatile: Feel free to customize with different toppings or mix-ins to suit your family’s preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing: They’re not just adorable — they’re sure to be a hit at any Thanksgiving or Halloween gathering!
Mini Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats Ingredients
For the Crust
- Mini Marshmallows – Provides sweetness and creates the gooey texture; key for binding the rice krispies.
- Butter – Adds richness and flavor; can be substituted with margarine for a dairy-free option.
- Rice Krispies – Form the base structure of the treats; no substitutes necessary as this is essential for the texture.
For the Pumpkin Pie Filling
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds a warm, aromatic flavor; can be replaced with a combination of cinnamon and nutmeg if unavailable.
- Orange Gel Food Coloring – Used to give the pie filling a characteristic orange color; optional based on personal preference.
For Topping
- Cool Whip or Whipped Cream – For topping; can be replaced with homemade whipped cream for a fresher option.
How to Make Mini Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats
- Prepare Muffin Pan: Start by buttering or spraying a regular muffin pan with non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure your delicious treats come out effortlessly later!
- Make the “Crust”: Melt 6 tablespoons of butter with 7 cups of mini marshmallows in a large pot over low heat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Stir in 6 cups of rice Krispies, mixing thoroughly until they’re fully coated. Scoop the mixture into the muffin wells, pressing down to form an indentation with a measuring cup.
- Make the “Pumpkin Pie Filling”: In another pot, melt 3 tablespoons of butter along with 3.5 cups of mini marshmallows and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice. Once melted, grab your orange gel food coloring and stir in until you achieve your desired orange hue. Mix in 3 cups of rice Krispies and blend well.
- Fill & Compress: Carefully fill the indentations in the crust with your pumpkin mixture, pressing gently to compress them. This helps hold everything together for the perfect bite.
- Cool & Serve: Let the treats cool in the muffin pan before gently removing them. For a festive touch, top each treat with a dollop of Cool Whip or your favorite whipped cream right before serving.
Optional: Add mini marshmallows on top for extra whimsy and sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Mini Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats?
As autumn settles in and festive gatherings begin, it’s time to create a cozy spread that pairs perfectly with these delightful treats!
- Cider-Glazed Apples: Their warm and sweet flavor complements the spices in the treats, creating a luscious fall-inspired harmony that’s hard to resist.
- Spiced Cocoa: A rich, chocolatey drink with a hint of cinnamon pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the rice krispie treats, making every bite feel extra indulgent.
- Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake: This creamy dessert echoes the pumpkin flavor while adding a luxurious touch that elevates your fall dessert table.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this classic favorite adds a delightful creaminess that balances the crunchy texture of the treats. Drizzle with caramel for extra decadence!
- Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: The savory warmth from the soup contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the treats, creating a comforting meal perfect for cooler days.
- Maple Pecan Pie: This rich pie offers a nutty crunch and sweet notes, making it an irresistible option alongside the mini pumpkin treats.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: The crisp, refreshing elements of seasonal fruits lighten the overall dessert experience while adding a fresh burst of color to your table.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: This festive drink enhances the fall vibe as it mirrors the flavors of the treats, making for a delightful sipper alongside your sweet bites.
Let your guests enjoy a perfect autumn feast that celebrates flavors of the season, ensuring these mini pumpkin pie rice krispie treats shine at the center of your dessert table!
Make Ahead Options
These Mini Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats are perfect for those hectic holiday preparations! You can prepare the “crust” and the “pumpkin pie filling” up to 24 hours in advance. Just make the crust and filling as directed, then refrigerate them separately in airtight containers. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the crusts with the pumpkin mixture and let them cool. For the best texture and flavor, ensure everything is at room temperature before assembling. Top each treat with Cool Whip or whipped cream right before serving to keep them fresh and delightful. This way, you can enjoy a delicious no-bake dessert with minimal effort during your holiday gatherings!
Mini Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats Variations
Get ready to add your personal touch with these fun and easy variations that will make your treats even more delightful!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine for a deliciously creamy version everyone can enjoy.
- Spice It Up: Swap pumpkin pie spice with chai spice for an exciting, aromatic twist that adds warmth and depth to each bite.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the crust mixture for an extra crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of each treat or mix in mini chocolate chips to elevate the sweetness.
- Fun Colors: Use gel food coloring in varying shades to create a colorful assortment that will make your treats extra festive!
- Crispy Add-In: Add crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs to the crust for a delightful crunch that mimics traditional pie crust.
- Fruit Medley: Incorporate finely chopped dried fruits like cranberries or apricots into the filling for a chewy surprise in every bite.
- Heat It Up: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes in the pumpkin filling for a surprising kick that balances the sweetness.
Tips for the Best Mini Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats
- Proper Temperature: Ensure your butter and marshmallows are melted over low heat to avoid burning. This will create a smooth mixing base for your Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats.
- Firm Press: When forming the “crust,” press down firmly into the muffin pan. This helps create a solid base and prevents the filling from spilling over.
- Cooling Time: Allow the treats to cool completely in the muffin pan before removing them. This prevents them from breaking apart and will help maintain their adorable shape.
- Customization: Feel free to personalize your treats with unique toppings like sprinkles, or maybe even a drizzle of chocolate get creative!
- Storage Tip: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days for optimal freshness, ensuring your delicious Mini Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats stay sweet and gooey!
Storage Tips for Mini Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats
Room Temperature: Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and retains their delightful texture.
Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate the Mini Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container, where they will last up to 5 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, these treats can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap each treat individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. If desired, you can also pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain some of that gooey goodness!
Mini Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats Recipe FAQs
What type of mini marshmallows should I use?
Absolutely, go for standard mini marshmallows! They provide the best sweetness and texture for binding the rice krispies. I recommend checking your local grocery store for options, as some brands may also have seasonal flavors that can add an interesting twist!
How should I store my Mini Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats?
Store these delightful treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate them for up to 5 days. If you want them to last even longer, these treats are freezer-friendly! Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they will keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Can I make these treats ahead of time for a party?
Very! You can definitely prepare these Mini Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats a day or two in advance. Just store them properly in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you plan to freeze them, remember to let them cool completely before wrapping them up.
What can I do if the filling is too sticky?
If your pumpkin pie filling is too sticky to work with, try lightly buttering your hands or using a spatula to mold it. An option is to add a touch more rice krispies to the filling mixture this will help balance the stickiness and make it easier to fill your “crust” without it falling apart.
Are these treats safe for kids with dietary restrictions?
Yes, absolutely! You can adapt these Mini Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats to be more allergy-friendly. Use dairy-free margarine instead of butter and opt for dairy-free whipped cream. For those with gluten sensitivities, check that your rice krispies are gluten-free many brands are! Always double-check ingredient labels if you’re serving kids with allergies to keep everyone safe.
Can I decorate these treats?
Definitely! Get creative with the decoration! You can use colored sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate on top. I often add mini marshmallows for an extra whimsical touch, which the kids love. The more the merrier when it comes to festive flair!
Irresistible Mini Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispie Treats for Fall Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Muffin Pan: Butter or spray a muffin pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- Make the Crust: Melt 6 tablespoons of butter with 7 cups of mini marshmallows in a pot over low heat. Stir in 6 cups of Rice Krispies.
- Make the Pumpkin Pie Filling: In another pot, melt 3 tablespoons of butter with 3.5 cups of mini marshmallows and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice. Add orange gel food coloring, then mix in 3 cups of Rice Krispies.
- Fill & Compress: Fill the crust indentations with the pumpkin mixture, pressing gently to compress.
- Cool & Serve: Let treats cool in the muffin pan before removing. Top with Cool Whip or whipped cream before serving.