Spooky Marshmallow Brain Krispies: Easy No-Bake Halloween Treat

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Looking for a delightfully ghoulish and irresistibly sweet treat to wow your friends? These Spooky Marshmallow Brain Krispies are guaranteed to be a hit. Not only are they frighteningly delicious, but they come together quickly, making them the perfect last-minute recipe for any gathering—whether it’s a Halloween party or just a fun movie night.

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Ingredients

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  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 10 ounces marshmallows (regular or mini)
  • 6 cups crisp rice cereal
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: a few drops of red or pink food coloring for extra “brainy” flair
  • Optional: candy melts or frosting to decorate

Instructions

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium-low heat. As soon as it’s fully melted, stir in the marshmallows until they begin to soften and form a smooth, sticky mixture. Drop in the vanilla extract, and if you’re feeling especially spooky, add a drop or two of red or pink food coloring to help give your krispies that realistic brain tinge.

Once the marshmallows are smooth, carefully fold in the crisp rice cereal. Stir gently but thoroughly, ensuring all of the cereal is coated with the sweet, buttery mix. This part can be sticky, so a spatula or spoon greased with a bit of butter or cooking spray works wonders.

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Let the mixture cool slightly, then use your hands (lightly greased) to form the cereal into “brainy” mounds. If you’d like to get extra creative, press in small creases or lines to make them look more like brains. For a gory effect, drizzle melted candy melts or frosting on top.

Set the finished treats on a sheet of parchment paper or a lightly greased tray. Allow them to firm up at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before serving, or pop them in the fridge for quicker results.

These pastries are perfect party conversation starters, but they’ll vanish quickly once the first person takes a bite!

Spooky Marshmallow Brain Krispies are great because they’re ridiculously easy, yet always impressive. They’re ideal for beginner cooks, fun-loving families, and anybody who enjoys a sweet twist on a classic favorite. If you need a gluten-free version, swap in certified gluten-free crisp cereal. Feel free to add crushed candy, chocolate chips, or swap the vanilla extract for almond or peppermint. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days, though chances are they’ll be gobbled up sooner!

Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.