Healthier White Chocolate Peppermint Rice Krispie Treats
These Healthier White Chocolate Peppermint Rice Krispie Treats put a festive twist on the classic holiday dessert you grew up loving. Made with wholesome, vegan-friendly ingredients and topped with a creamy white chocolate and peppermint drizzle, these gluten-free treats deliver crunchy, sweet nostalgia without the guilt.
Spotlight on These Healthier White Chocolate Peppermint Rice Krispie Treats
- They are incredibly addictive: These healthier white chocolate peppermint rice krispie treats are the holiday dessert you won’t be able to stop thinking about. They’ll be on repeat in our house all season long, and I’m warning you now—you may love me or blame me for introducing them.
- They are quick to make: Ideal for busy moms, this recipe comes together in one pot and takes less than 15 minutes. No complicated steps, no chilling time, just a fast holiday treat ready to enjoy.
- They’re made with better ingredients: Created with health in mind, these treats use more natural, vegan-friendly ingredients while still having that classic sweetness kids crave.
- They’re festive and fun: The white chocolate drizzle and peppermint topping make these krispie treats perfect for cookie exchanges, school events, or family holiday nights.
- They’re great for make-ahead dessert: Prepare them the day before and keep them covered on the counter. They hold well and are an easy dessert to bring to holiday gatherings or package as edible gifts.
The Ingredients
Vegan butter: Choose a high-quality vegan butter that melts smoothly and blends easily with the marshmallows.
Brown rice cereal: Look for a brown rice version instead of the traditional cereal. Health-focused brands from stores like Sprouts or Trader Joe’s work especially well and help keep the recipe a bit cleaner.
Marshmallows: Choose a brand with minimal processed ingredients. A health food store is ideal. During the holidays, Trader Joe’s peppermint marshmallows are a fun option for this recipe.
Vanilla extract: Use high-quality pure vanilla extract to enhance the flavor and bring a subtle sweetness that ties everything together.
Dairy free white chocolate chips: Look for a brand that is naturally sweetened if possible. White chocolate chips work great in this recipe, whether vegan or traditional, depending on preference.
Coconut oil: A small amount helps the white chocolate melt smoothly and set properly over the rice krispie treats.
Pure peppermint oil: Adds natural peppermint flavor to both the topping and the rice krispie base for that festive holiday touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can enjoy them right away, but letting them sit for 30 minutes helps them firm up, especially if the chocolate drizzle is still warm.
Sure! If you’re not into peppermint, go ahead and skip this ingredient.
Yes! I prefer the lighter flavor of white chocolate but it really does not matter!
Yes. Just make sure your rice cereal and crushed candy canes are labeled gluten free.
Perfectly. Most kids love the subtle peppermint flavor and festive look. If they prefer a milder taste, use a lighter hand with the peppermint extract.
The Instructions
Step one: Line an 8×8 glass baking dish with parchment paper or grease it with coconut oil or butter. Set it aside.
Step two: Add vegan butter to a large pan and heat over medium-high. Immediately add the marshmallows and vanilla and stir constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is creamy.
Step three: Remove the pan from the heat and add the brown rice cereal. Mix it all up with a spatula until everything is totally incorporated.
Step four: Transfer the cereal mixture to the lined pan. Using your hands or a piece of parchment paper, carefully press the mixture into an even layer. Now make the white chocolate top layer.
Step five: Add a glass bowl to the top of a small saucepan that has about 1.5 inches of simmering water in it. Place the white chocolate chips, coconut oil, and peppermint oil into the bowl. Mix it until everything is melted and totally creamy.
Step six: Remove the pan from the heat and pour the melted chocolate over the leveled rice krispie treats. Smooth into an even layer with a spatula.
Step seven: Put the rice krispie treats into the fridge for an hour before cutting and serving. This will allow the topping to harden and the bars to hold together.
Storage
Place the squares into an air-tight container and keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Allow them to sit out for about 15-30 minutes before eating them for the best consistency.
Tips + Modifications
To keep this recipe fully plant-based, use vegan marshmallows that melt well.
For clean edges, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped dry before slicing.
Feel free to remove the chocolate topping if desired.
Other Peppermint Dessert to Try
Chocolate Peppermint Cream Pie
Vanilla Peppermint Sugar Cookies
Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Healthier White Chocolate Peppermint Rice Krispie Treats
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 8×8 glass baking dish, lined with parchment paper *You can also grease it with butter or coconut oil
Ingredients
For the rice krispy layer:
- ⅔ cup vegan butter
- 1 (10oz) bag of mini vegan marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4½ cups crispy brown rice cereal
For the white chocolate top layer:
- 1¼ cups vegan white chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
- ½ teaspoon pure peppermint oil
Instructions
For the bottom rice krispie layer:
- Line an 8×8 glass baking dish with parchment paper or grease it with coconut oil or butter. Set it aside.
- Add vegan butter to a large pan and heat over medium-high heat. Immediately add the marshmallows and vanilla and stir constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Remove the pan from the heat and add the rice krispie cereal. Mix it all up with a spatula until everything is totally incorporated.
- Transfer the cereal mixture to the lined pan. Using your hands or a piece of parchment paper, carefully press the mixture into an even layer. Now make the white chocolate top layer.
For the top white chocolate layer:
- Add a glass bowl to the top of a small saucepan and add 2 inches of water to it. Place the white chocolate chips, coconut oil, and peppermint oil into the bowl. Turn the heat on high until boiling and then turn it down to a simmer. Mix everything until it's melted and totally creamy.
- Remove the pan from the heat and pour the melted chocolate over the top of the leveled rice krispie treats. Smooth into an even layer with a spatula.
- Put the rice krispie treats into the fridge for an hour before cutting and serving. This will allow the topping to harden and the bars to hold together.
- Remove the dish from the fridge and cut them into 12 squares. Enjoy!
