Directions
Start by preparing the base. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir constantly until fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and salt.
Quickly fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until fully coated. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish. Let cool for 15–20 minutes until firm.
While the base sets, prepare the cheesecake topping. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, and mix until creamy and lump-free. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined and fluffy.
Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled Rice Krispies layer using a spatula. Smooth the top and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set.
Before serving, add your desired toppings—berries for freshness, chocolate for indulgence, or graham cracker crumbs for classic cheesecake vibes. Cut into bars and serve chilled.
Nutritional Information (Per Bar – Approximate, 1 of 12)
Calories: 280
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Sugar: 25g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: <1g
These treats are sweet and rich, making them ideal for sharing. You can cut smaller bars for bite-size party portions, or larger ones for a full dessert experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using warm cereal or warm marshmallow mix can cause sogginess. Always use fresh cereal and allow the marshmallow mix to slightly cool before pressing into the pan.
Overmixing the whipped topping into the cheesecake base can deflate it. Gently fold until just combined to preserve that light, creamy texture.
Not letting the bars chill long enough may cause the cheesecake layer to spread when slicing. Always give it at least 2 hours—or overnight for best results.
Skipping parchment paper can make it hard to remove the bars cleanly. Lining the pan makes for effortless lifting and cleaner slicing.
Helpful Tips
For added texture, stir mini white chocolate chips or crushed pretzels into the Rice Krispies mixture before pressing into the pan.
Use flavored marshmallows (like strawberry or vanilla swirl) for a twist on the classic base.
To make it more cheesecake-forward, double the cream cheese layer and add a thin layer of fruit preserves just beneath it.
Want it even easier? Make the entire recipe in a 9×9-inch pan for thicker, bakery-style bars with fewer servings and more visual impact.
Store bars covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them in airtight containers and thaw when needed.
Conclusion
No-Bake Cheesecake Rice Krispies Treats are the kind of dessert that looks impressive, tastes incredible, and comes together without a single minute in the oven. They’re creamy, crunchy, sweet, and totally customizable—making them perfect for birthdays, showers, potlucks, and last-minute get-togethers.
If you’re a fan of cheesecake or Rice Krispies—or both—this is a must-try dessert fusion that will earn a permanent place in your no-bake recipe collection. One bite, and you’ll see why this treat is a new classic.
