If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the nostalgic flavors of classic s’mores without worrying about gluten or animal products, this Vegan Gluten-Free S’mores Rice Crispy Treats Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It combines the gooey richness of vegan marshmallows, the satisfying crunch of gluten-free rice cereal, and that irresistible hint of chocolate and graham crackers — all baked into one magical, chewy treat. Perfect for family gatherings, snack times, or just whenever you want a comforting sweet that fits your dietary needs, this recipe is simple, delicious, and sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen not only to keep this treat vegan and gluten-free but also to deliver the best possible texture and flavor. From the creamy vegan butter to the classic crunchy cereal, every component plays a crucial role in making this dessert unforgettable.
- Vegan marshmallows (12-ounce bag): These provide the classic gooey texture without any gelatin, perfect for a vegan treat.
- Vegan butter (6 ounces): Adds richness and helps everything bind together smoothly with a luscious taste.
- Gluten-free rice cereal (4 cups): Gives the treats that light crunch and bleached color typical of classic rice crispy treats.
- Gluten-free graham cracker crumbs (1 cup): These crumbs bring the authentic s’mores flavor and a delicate crumbly texture.
- Dairy-free chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Melts slightly and adds a rich chocolate touch that’s anything but ordinary.
How to Make Vegan Gluten-Free S’mores Rice Crispy Treats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by lining a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This step ensures your treats won’t stick, making it much easier to remove and cut them once they’re set. It’s a small prep move that pays off in a big way.
Step 2: Melt the Vegan Butter and Marshmallows
In a large saucepan, gently melt the vegan butter and vegan marshmallows over medium-low heat. Stir continuously until you get a smooth, glossy mixture. This slow melt is key to achieving that perfect sticky consistency without burning.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free rice cereal, gluten-free graham cracker crumbs, and dairy-free chocolate chips. Mixing these dry components first ensures an even distribution of chocolate and graham cracker flavor throughout the treat.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the warm, melted butter and marshmallow mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir quickly and thoroughly so everything is evenly coated. This step transforms the crunchy dry mix into a wonderfully cohesive mixture that will hold together once set.
Step 5: Press and Cool
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, pressing down firmly with a spatula or clean hands. Make sure it’s evenly packed to prevent crumbling. Let it cool completely at room temperature, allowing the treats to firm up and develop their signature chewy texture.
How to Serve Vegan Gluten-Free S’mores Rice Crispy Treats Recipe
Garnishes
While these treats are fantastic on their own, a sprinkle of crushed vegan graham crackers or a drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate can elevate their appearance and flavor. Toasted coconut flakes or a dash of cinnamon can add interesting layers that surprise the palate.
Side Dishes
Serve these treats alongside a hot cup of dairy-free hot chocolate or a chilled glass of nut milk. Their sweet crunch pairs perfectly with beverages that complement their marshmallow and chocolate notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider cutting the treats into bite-sized squares and placing them on a decorative platter for your next party. Wrapping individual portions in colorful parchment paper makes for a delightful snack gift. For a fun twist, layer them between vegan vanilla pudding or frozen banana slices for a layered dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Vegan Gluten-Free S’mores Rice Crispy Treats Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining that perfect chewy, gooey texture without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to preserve them longer, these treats freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months frozen. Just let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-baked feel, you can warm the treats in a microwave for about 10 seconds or in a low-temperature oven for 5 minutes. This melts the chocolate chips slightly and softens the marshmallow for an irresistibly gooey bite.
FAQs
Can I use regular marshmallows if I’m not vegan?
Absolutely! If vegan ingredients aren’t a concern, regular marshmallows will work perfectly and may even be a bit sweeter, though the vegan version ensures a plant-based treat everyone can enjoy.
Is it important to use gluten-free graham crackers?
Yes, to keep the recipe 100% gluten-free, using gluten-free graham crackers is a must. They provide the signature flavor without risking gluten contamination.
Can I substitute the rice cereal for another kind?
While rice cereal is classic for that light texture, you can experiment with other gluten-free cereals like corn flakes or puffed quinoa. Just keep in mind this might slightly alter the texture.
How do I prevent the chocolate chips from melting into a mess?
By mixing the chocolate chips with the dry ingredients before adding the melted marshmallow mixture, the chips stay mostly intact, adding bites of chocolate rather than melting completely.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit to this recipe?
Definitely! If you want added crunch or chewiness, fold in chopped nuts or dried fruit along with the chocolate chips. Just be sure to consider any allergy concerns for those you’ll be sharing with.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Gluten-Free S’mores Rice Crispy Treats Recipe perfectly captures the magic of s’mores in a way that’s friendly to many dietary lifestyles. It’s simple, fun, and downright delicious. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked on how easy it is to bring that campfire favorite home anytime you want. Go ahead and make a batch — your taste buds will thank you!
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Vegan Gluten-Free S’mores Rice Crispy Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes plus 1 hour cooling
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These S’mores Rice Crispy Treats are a delightful vegan and gluten-free twist on the classic campfire favorite. Combining melted vegan marshmallows and butter with gluten-free rice cereal, graham cracker crumbs, and dairy-free chocolate chips, these treats are chewy, chocolaty, and perfectly crunchy. Easy to prepare with minimal cooking time, they make a fun and delicious snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 (12-ounce) bag vegan marshmallows
- 6 ounces vegan butter
Dry Ingredients
- 4 cups gluten-free rice cereal
- 1 cup gluten-free graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the treats once set.
- Melt Butter and Marshmallows: In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the vegan butter and marshmallows together, stirring frequently until the mixture is completely smooth and combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free rice cereal, gluten-free graham cracker crumbs, and dairy-free chocolate chips, ensuring an even distribution of crunchy and chocolaty elements.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the melted marshmallow and butter mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly until every piece of cereal is coated and the mixture is evenly combined.
- Press into Pan and Cool: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly using a spatula or your hands to create an even layer. Allow the treats to cool at room temperature until fully set, approximately 1 hour, before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- Use parchment paper to easily lift the treats from the baking dish once set.
- Press the mixture firmly to ensure treats hold together well.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
- For added texture, consider sprinkling extra dairy-free chocolate chips on top before cooling.
- If vegan marshmallows are not available, homemade vegan marshmallow recipes can be used as a substitute.
