Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Tangy Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats Recipe – Sweet & Zesty Fun

Tangy key lime pie rice krispie treats merge classic dessert nostalgia with unexpected culinary creativity.

Sweet and zesty flavors dance across your taste buds in this reimagined childhood favorite.

Professional bakers and home cooks alike appreciate innovative twists on familiar comfort foods.

These no-bake delights combine creamy lime essence with marshmallow-bound crispy rice textures that surprise and delight.

Balanced between tart citrus notes and sugary smoothness, this dessert crafts ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

Signature graham cracker crumbs and vibrant lime zest elevate these treats beyond traditional expectations.

Summer gatherings, potlucks, and casual celebrations deserve a dessert that sparks conversation and brings genuine smiles.

What’s Fun About Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats

  • Burst of Tropical Fusion: Combines the classic Rice Krispie treat with vibrant key lime flavor, creating a surprising and delightful dessert that transports your taste buds to a sunny beach.
  • Effortless Gourmet Twist: Transforms a simple childhood favorite into an elevated treat with minimal effort, using just a few extra ingredients like key lime zest and white chocolate drizzle.
  • Textural Playground: Offers a delightful mix of crispy cereal, soft marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers, delivering a satisfying multi-layered mouthfeel that keeps each bite interesting.
  • Make-Ahead Party Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this no-bake dessert can be prepared in advance and stored easily, making it a stress-free option for potlucks, summer parties, or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients for Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats

Base Ingredients:
  • Crispy Rice Cereal: A crunchy base that provides texture and structure to the treats.
  • Graham Crackers: Adds a classic graham cracker flavor and extra crunch to the dessert.
  • Marshmallows: Acts as the binding agent that holds the treats together and provides sweetness.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Key Limes, Lime Zest: Brings a bright, tangy citrus flavor that defines the key lime pie essence.
  • White Chocolate: Creates a smooth, creamy topping that complements the lime flavor.
  • Vegetable Oil: Helps white chocolate melt smoothly and creates a glossy drizzle.
Preparation Ingredients:
  • Non-Stick Baking Spray: Ensures easy removal of treats from the baking dish.
  • Rubber Spatula: Helps spread and press the mixture evenly in the pan.

How to Prepare Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Prepare Baking Dish

Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gather crispy rice cereal and graham crackers. Chop 5-6 graham crackers and mix with the cereal in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Create Marshmallow Base

Use a large saucepan to melt butter over low heat. Add of marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted and smooth.

Step 4: Add Citrus Flavor

Remove pan from heat. Zest and juice 4 key limes, then mix into the melted marshmallow mixture. Fold in:
  • Cereal mixture
  • Remaining marshmallows

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread the mixed treat mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a sprayed rubber spatula to press evenly. Sprinkle remaining graham crackers on top.

Step 6: Create Chocolate Drizzle

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate and oil. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then repeat if not fully melted. Mix in additional lime zest.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Drizzle melted white chocolate over the treats. Allow to set for 30-60 minutes at room temperature. Cut into squares and serve.

Step 8: Store Treats

Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature. Enjoy within this time for best flavor and texture.

Tips for the Best Rice Krispie Texture

  • Zest Precisely: Roll key limes on the counter before zesting to release more essential oils and maximize flavor intensity.
  • Marshmallow Magic: Use fresh, soft marshmallows for the smoothest, most consistent mixture that binds ingredients perfectly.
  • Chocolate Drizzle Control: Melt white chocolate slowly and stir frequently to prevent burning and achieve a silky, smooth texture.
  • Press Gently: When spreading the mixture in the pan, use a light touch with a sprayed spatula to keep treats light and airy.
  • Chill for Perfection: Let treats set completely at room temperature to ensure clean, crisp cutting edges and optimal texture.

How to Store Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats

  • Refrigerate Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Seal tightly with a lid or plastic wrap to prevent moisture and preserve the crispy texture. Layer treats between parchment paper to prevent sticking and keep individual pieces intact. When ready to enjoy, remove from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly. For best taste and texture, consume within 3-5 days of preparation. Avoid freezing, as marshmallow-based treats can become soggy and lose their signature crunch when thawed.

Pairing Tips for Key Lime Rice Krispie Treats

  • Pair with Zesty Margarita: Mix a classic margarita with fresh lime juice and tequila to complement the key lime pie flavors, creating a tangy and sweet cocktail experience that echoes the dessert's bright citrus notes.
  • Serve with Coconut Sorbet: Scoop a refreshing coconut sorbet alongside the rice krispie treats, offering a cool, creamy contrast to the crunchy, sweet bars and enhancing the tropical key lime profile.
  • Match with Crisp White Wine: Select a chilled sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio with citrusy undertones, which will highlight the key lime's tartness and provide a light, refreshing accompaniment to the dessert.
  • Enjoy with Cold Brew Coffee: Sip a smooth, slightly sweet cold brew that cuts through the richness of the treats, balancing the marshmallow's sweetness and the key lime's zesty kick.

Key Lime Rice Krispie Twists You’ll Enjoy

  • Tropical Paradise Crunch: Swap key lime with passion fruit juice and zest, adding toasted coconut flakes for a vibrant island-inspired treat.
  • Citrus Burst Squares: Replace key lime with a blend of lemon and orange zest, incorporating dried orange peel for extra tangy flavor.
  • Berry Blast Edition: Mix in freeze-dried raspberry pieces and swap key lime juice with raspberry puree for a fruity, vibrant version.
  • Mediterranean Remix: Use blood orange zest and juice, sprinkle crushed pistachios on top for a unique Mediterranean-inspired rice krispie treat experience.
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Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats Recipe


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4.7 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Key Lime Pie Rice Krispie Treats blend tropical zest with childhood nostalgia, creating a whimsical dessert that dances between creamy lime and marshmallow comfort. Miami-inspired flavors merge classic cereal bars with tangy citrus, inviting dessert enthusiasts to savor a playful sweet experience.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 10 cups miniature marshmallows
  • 5 cups crispy rice cereal
  • 8 whole graham crackers, chopped
  • 6 key limes, juiced and zested

Binding and Flavoring Ingredients:

  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 ounces white chocolate or vanilla almond bark
  • ½ teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable oil

Garnish:

  • Remaining chopped graham crackers

Instructions

  1. Prepare a 9×13-inch (23×33 centimeters) baking dish by coating it thoroughly with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Combine crispy rice cereal with finely chopped graham crackers in a spacious mixing bowl, ensuring even distribution.
  3. Using a large saucepan, gently melt butter over low heat, creating a smooth base for marshmallow integration.
  4. Add of marshmallows to the melted butter, stirring continuously until they transform into a uniform, glossy mixture.
  5. Remove the saucepan from heat and incorporate freshly grated key lime zest and juice, infusing the mixture with bright citrus notes.
  6. Fold the cereal and graham cracker blend into the marshmallow mixture, then gently stir in the remaining of marshmallows for added texture.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, using a spray-coated rubber spatula to spread it evenly and prevent sticking.
  8. Garnish the surface by pressing additional graham cracker pieces on top for a decorative and crunchy layer.
  9. Create a white chocolate drizzle by combining white chocolate and vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring until completely melted.
  10. Enhance the white chocolate drizzle by mixing in extra lime zest for intensified citrus flavor.
  11. Artfully drizzle the white chocolate mixture over the treats, creating an appealing visual pattern.
  12. Allow the treats to set at room temperature for 30-60 minutes, permitting the layers to solidify and flavors to meld.
  13. Once set, slice into individual servings and store in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Zesty Twist: Infuse classic Rice Krispie treats with tangy key lime flavor for a tropical summer dessert that surprises and delights.
  • Quick Prep Magic: Whip up this no-bake treat in under 20 minutes, perfect for spontaneous sweet cravings or last-minute gatherings.
  • Texture Party: Combining crispy rice cereal, graham crackers, and creamy marshmallows creates an irresistible mix of crunch and softness.
  • Lime Lover’s Dream: Fresh key lime zest and juice elevate this dessert from ordinary to extraordinary with bright, citrusy notes.
  • Make-Ahead Marvel: These treats stay fresh for 5 days when stored in an airtight container, making them ideal for advance preparation.
  • Customize Easily: Experiment with different chocolate drizzles or swap key lime for other citrus flavors to make the recipe your own.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 268 kcal
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 105 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 48 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Simple Everyday Recipes, Sustainable Cooking Practices, Creative Meal Planning, Recipe Testing and Improvement

Education

Fox Valley Technical College, Appleton, Wisconsin

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Practical culinary training, fundamental cooking techniques, meal planning, and using fresh, local ingredients.

Lake Superior College, Duluth, Minnesota

  • Program: Certificate in Sustainable Food Systems
  • Focus: Cooking methods that promote sustainability, farm-to-table practices, and eco-friendly meal creation.

Lucas Bennett’s cooking journey started in his parents’ kitchen, where he learned to prepare tasty, no-fuss meals from scratch. His culinary passion led him to Fox Valley Technical College, where he gained practical cooking skills.
He then expanded his focus on sustainability at Lake Superior College. Today, Lucas shares easy, approachable recipes designed to make cooking enjoyable and stress-free for everyone.

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