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The holidays are the perfect time to whip up creative and fun treats, and these Santa Hats Rice Krispie Treats are as adorable as they are delicious! Whether you’re looking for a dessert to impress at your next Christmas party or a sweet activity to enjoy with the kids, this recipe is a winner. These festive treats combine the classic marshmallowy crunch of Rice Krispies with vibrant red food coloring, creamy white chocolate, and fun holiday decorations.

Santa Hats Rice Krispie Treats

Not only are these Santa hats easy to make, but they’re also a delightful addition to any dessert table. Kids and adults alike will love the whimsical design, and you’ll love how simple they are to create. With just a few basic ingredients and a little holiday spirit, you can craft these charming snacks that taste as good as they look. Plus, the versatility of Rice Krispie cereal means you can use an off-brand option and still achieve the same amazing results.

This recipe is perfect for getting everyone in the holiday mood. It’s quick enough to fit into a busy schedule and doesn’t require any fancy tools—just a little patience and creativity. So, roll up your sleeves, grab some marshmallows, and let’s transform this classic treat into something magical for the holiday season!

What You’ll Love About Santa Hats Rice Krispie Treats

1. Adorable and Festive Appearance
   These Santa Hats Rice Krispie Treats are almost too cute to eat! Their bright red color, snowy white chocolate trim, and mini marshmallow pom-poms make them a picture-perfect addition to your holiday dessert spread. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a fun gift idea, these treats are guaranteed to bring smiles all around.
2. Simple and Quick to Make
   This recipe takes classic Rice Krispie treats to the next level without adding complexity. With easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward process, you can whip up these festive snacks in no time. It’s an ideal recipe for busy holiday schedules or last-minute dessert needs.
3. Kid-Friendly Fun
   Kids will absolutely love making these Santa hats with you! From mixing the red marshmallowy cereal to decorating with white chocolate and sprinkles, it’s a fun, hands-on activity that everyone can enjoy. Plus, the end result is a treat they’ll be proud to show off (and snack on).

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Santa Hats Rice Krispie Treats

1. Use Gel Food Coloring for Vibrant Red
   To achieve the festive red color, gel food coloring works best. It’s more concentrated than liquid food coloring, giving you a bright hue without needing to add too much and affecting the texture of your treats.
2. Grease Your Hands or Spatula
   When pressing the Rice Krispie mixture into the pan, lightly grease your hands or spatula with butter or nonstick spray. This prevents sticking and helps you evenly spread the mixture without a mess.
3. Work Quickly with the Melted Marshmallows
   Once the marshmallows are melted and colored, move fast to mix in the Rice Krispies before the mixture cools and becomes harder to work with. Preparing your ingredients ahead of time will make this step seamless.
4. Chill Before Cutting
   Letting the treats cool and firm up in the fridge for at least 30 minutes makes cutting out the Santa hat shapes much easier. A firm texture ensures clean, defined edges.
5. Reheat Candy Melts as Needed
   If the candy melts start to harden while you’re dipping, pop them back into the microwave for 10-15 seconds to re-melt. This ensures a smooth and even coating for the “hat rim” and “pom-pom.”
6. Experiment with Decorations
   If you can’t find white sprinkles, swap them out for crushed white candy canes or edible glitter. Personalize the design to match your holiday vibe!
7. Use Wax or Parchment Paper
   Place your dipped hats on parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking while the chocolate sets. It’s an easy way to keep your work area clean too!
8. Store Properly
   Keep these treats fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration, as it can make the Rice Krispie base too hard.

FAQs for Santa Hats Rice Krispie Treats

1. Can I use store-brand Rice Krispies for this recipe?
Absolutely! Off-brand cereal works just as well as the name-brand version. Just make sure the cereal is fresh and crispy for the best results.

2. What if I don’t have red gel food coloring?
You can use liquid food coloring, but you’ll need more to achieve the vibrant red color. Keep in mind that adding too much liquid can slightly alter the texture of the marshmallow mixture.

3. How do I keep the Rice Krispie mixture from sticking to my hands?
Lightly grease your hands or spatula with butter or nonstick spray before pressing the mixture into the pan. This simple trick makes spreading the mixture much easier and less messy.

4. Can I use white chocolate chips instead of candy melts?
Yes, you can substitute white chocolate chips for candy melts. However, you may need to add a small amount of coconut oil or shortening to help the chocolate melt smoothly.

5. How far in advance can I make these treats?
These Santa Hats can be made up to three days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.

6. What if I don’t have a Santa hat-shaped cookie cutter?
No problem! You can use a triangle-shaped cutter or even freehand cut the shapes with a sharp knife. The festive decorations will make them look like Santa hats no matter what!

7. Can I use other toppings instead of white sprinkles?
Of course! Crushed white candy canes, shredded coconut, or edible glitter can be fun and festive alternatives for the hat rims.

8. Can I make these without the marshmallow decorations on top?
Sure! The marshmallow “pom-pom” is optional but adds a fun touch. You could substitute with a white chocolate chip or a small dollop of extra melted chocolate instead.

9. How do I store leftovers?
Place the treats in an airtight container, layering parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. Store at room temperature for up to three days. Avoid refrigeration, as it can make the treats too hard.

Try these other easy Christmas Treats!

Christmas Tree Brownies

Monster Christmas Cookie Bars

Reindeer Oreos

Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole

Continue to Content

Yield: 12 12

Santa Hats Rice Krispies Treats

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Super cute Santa Hats Rice Krispies Treats are just about the cutest thing you can serve this holiday.  This is a great treat to have the kids help you make.  

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Ingredients

• 6 C. Rice Krispie cereal, off brand works great too!
• 10 oz mini marshmallows + 6 mini marshmallows removed and cut in half for Santa's Hat
• 3 tbsp. butter, cut into chunks
• Red gel food coloring
• 12 oz package Wilton bright white candy melts
• White sprinkles

Instructions

1. Line a 9x13 baking dish with parchment or wax paper.
2. Add the mini marshmallows and butter to a large saucepan or dutch oven and heat on low/medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Once the mixture begins to melt add in several drops of red gel food coloring and stir to combine.
4. Fold in the Rice Krispie cereal until it is completely coated.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and gently press down.
6. Place the Rice Krispie Treats in the fridge for 30 minutes.
7. Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper.
8. Remove the treats from the fridge and use the cookie cutter to cut out each treat.
9. Pour the bright white candy melts into a microwave safe dish. Heat in the microwave in 30 second increments, stirring occasionally until melted.
10. Dip the bottom of the Santa Hats into the melted chocolate forming the rim and allowing the excess to drip back into the bowl.
11. Place on the prepared baking sheet and add white sprinkle to the rim of the hat.
12. Repeat with all 12 Rice Krispie treats.
13. Once the rims have set, you may need to reheat the chocolate for a few more seconds.
14. Dip the top of Santa's Hat into the white chocolate and place 1 marshmallow half on the top for the pom pom.
15. Repeat with all Santa Hats.

Notes

*Makes 12 Santa Hats

Nutrition Information:

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 614Saturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 7mgSodium: 681mgCarbohydrates: 127gSugar: 32gProtein: 8g

Melissa

I’m Melissa, the imaginative force behind Sparkles to Sprinkles, where creativity comes to life, and sprinkles of joy are scattered generously. Melissa is a proud Jersey girl who found love with a New York boy. As a mom to four wonderful boys and a few fur babies, her journey into the world of blogging began after making the life-changing decision to stay home and raise her children. Previously a dedicated workaholic, Melissa’s blog became her creative outlet and passion project. Inspired by her mother-in-law, a masterful cook renowned for her delicious home-cooked meals and legendary holiday feasts (think mouthwatering sausage stuffing), Melissa honed her culinary skills through a combination of family recipes and countless cooking classes. She often attended these classes with her son Michael, who shared her enthusiasm for cooking from a young age. Melissa’s love for learning extends beyond familiar cuisines, as she enjoys exploring international recipes in hands-on cooking classes. Her blog features a diverse array of recipes, showcasing her expertise with various kitchen appliances such as the Instant Pot, air fryer, Slow Cooker, Ninja Foodi, Instant Vortex Plus, and more. Join Melissa on her culinary adventures as she shares tried-and-true family favorites alongside exciting new discoveries!

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