Delicious Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats for Thanksgiving Fun

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

As the crisp autumn air begins to embrace us and the leaves start to don their vibrant hues, my kitchen becomes a hub of seasonal creativity. One day, while sipping on a warm cup of cider, an idea struck me: why not capture the beauty of fall in a delicious treat? That s how I stumbled upon the delightful concept of Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats a whimsical twist on the classic recipe that s not only easy to make but also brings a splash of festive charm to any Thanksgiving table or autumn gathering.

The rustling of colorful leaves outside is mirrored in these treats, adorned in shades of orange, gold, green, and brown, each bite offering a satisfying crunch and gooey marshmallow goodness that will enchant both kids and adults alike. Whether you re looking to add a unique twist to your dessert table or impress your friends at the potluck, these adorable treats are sure to steal the show! Let s dive into this simple no-bake recipe that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Why are Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats a must-try?

Simplicity: This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Festive Appeal: The autumn colors and leaf shapes are not only visually stunning but also perfectly themed for Thanksgiving gatherings.

No-Bake Convenience: Say goodbye to long baking times! These treats are quick to whip up, making them a low-effort delight for unexpected guests.

Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the kids in shaping and decorating it s a hands-on, engaging activity that sparks creativity.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of crispy cereal and gooey marshmallows offers a universally loved taste that will have everyone smiling.

Indulge your festive spirit and create a beautiful batch of these treats that everyone will rave about!

Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats Ingredients

Get ready to bring the flavors of the season into your kitchen with these delightful Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats!

For the Base

• Rice Krispies Cereal Provides the perfect crunch and structure; you can swap it for similar puffed cereals if needed.
• Mini Marshmallows These create that gooey, sweet center; use standard marshmallows if you prefer larger bites but cut them into smaller pieces.
• Butter (Sweet Cream, Salted) Adds richness and helps melt the marshmallows smoothly; unsalted butter is also great, just toss in a pinch of salt to balance flavors.

For the Color

• Wilton Color Right Food Coloring This is key for achieving those vibrant, autumn hues; any food coloring will work, but gel options often deliver brighter results.

For Shaping

• Leaf Cookie Cutter Essential for crafting the fall leaf shapes; if you don t have one, any festive cookie cutter will do, or you can simply cut them into squares.

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let your creativity shine as you whip up these charming treats!

How to Make Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats

1. Prepare Base: Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a medium heat pan. Add 3 cups of mini marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Color the Mixture: Remove the pan from the heat and carefully incorporate your desired food coloring into the melted marshmallow mixture until you achieve vibrant hues that remind you of autumn leaves.
3. Combine Ingredients: Gently fold in 3 cups of Rice Krispies into the colored marshmallow mixture, ensuring every piece of cereal is well coated without crushing them.
4. Shape Treats: Allow the mixture to cool slightly for easier handling. Use a leaf cookie cutter to shape the treats, pressing the mixture firmly into the cutter before gently releasing each piece.
5. Repeat for Other Colors: For each autumn color (orange, gold, green, brown), repeat the above steps, creating a batch for every hue to capture the essence of fall.
6. Cool and Store: Let your treats cool completely at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container or freeze for later enjoyment, perfect for those unexpected snacking urges!

Optional: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled treats for an extra layer of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the festive flavors without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the rice cereal mixture and shape it into leaves up to 24 hours in advance. After shaping, simply allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps the treats just as delicious, ensuring they remain chewy and crisp. When you re ready to serve, you can drizzle melted chocolate on top or garnish with sprinkles for added flair. With these make-ahead tips, you ll save valuable time for your Thanksgiving festivities!

How to Store and Freeze Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats

• Room Temperature: Store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, ensuring they remain fresh and chewy.
• Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Just be aware that they may lose some of their crunchy texture.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats in a single layer separated by parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To enjoy frozen treats, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to restore their delightful gooeyness.

Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats Variations

Feel free to get creative and adapt this recipe to your taste each variation adds a new twist of fun!

• Chocolate Twist: Swap the Rice Krispies for chocolate-flavored ones for a rich, cocoa-infused treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch, enhancing both texture and flavor complexity.
• Candy Crumble: Add crunchy candy pieces, such as M&Ms or crushed candy corn, to the mixture for pops of color and sweetness throughout!
• Veggie Colors: Use natural vegetable-based dyes like beet juice for pink or spinach puree for green to make this treat a bit healthier and add dimension.
• Pumpkin Spice: Mix in a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the melted marshmallows for a warm, seasonal flavor that dances on your palette.
• Baking Sheet Method: Spread the mixture flat in a baking sheet and cut them into smaller squares or rectangles for a quicker assembly great for feeding a crowd!
• Marshmallow Upgrade: Instead of mini marshmallows, try using gourmet or flavored marshmallows for a fun twist, like strawberry or vanilla bean.
• Spicy Kick: For the adventurous, add a sprinkle of cayenne or chili powder to the melted mixture for a surprising, spicy contrast to the sweetness.

With these variations, you can make your Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats as unique as your autumn celebrations!

Tips for the Best Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats

• Perfectly Even Color: Use a toothpick to add food coloring gradually; this helps achieve uniform hues throughout your mixture without overwhelming the marshmallows.
• Gentle Mixing: Be careful when folding in the Rice Krispies. Over-mixing can crush the cereal, impacting the delightful crunch of your Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats.
• Cool Just Right: Allow the marshmallow mixture to cool slightly before shaping. If too hot, it can be gooey and sticky; if too cool, it may not hold its shape well.
• Cookie Cutter Tip: To easily release the treats from your leaf cookie cutter, lightly spray it with cooking spray before pressing the mixture this makes for clean shapes!
• Storing Wisely: Keep your treats in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their lovely texture, or freeze them if you need a longer shelf-life!

What to Serve with Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats?

Imagine welcoming your guests with delightful autumn-inspired offerings that perfectly complement your festive treats.

• Warm Apple Cider: This sweet, spiced beverage brings cozy fall flavors that pair wonderfully with the sugary treats, enhancing that nostalgic holiday atmosphere.
• Pumpkin Soup: This creamy and rich soup s savory notes balance the sweetness of the treats, creating a comforting autumn meal that warms the soul.
• Cheese Platter: A mix of sharp cheddar and creamy brie adds a savory contrast, sharpening the palate and preparing it for the sweet Rice Krispie treats.
• Caramel Dipping Sauce: Offering a rich, gooey texture, this sweet sauce adds an indulgent twist, inviting guests to personalize their Rice Krispie experience.
• Chocolate Chip Cookies: Classic cookies are a crowd favorite that stand side by side with your treats, offering that familiar taste of childhood.
• Autumn Salad: A refreshing salad with roasted nuts and dried cranberries lightens up the menu, adding a touch of freshness that balances out the sweetness.

These pairings not only elevate your dessert table but also create an inviting autumn gathering that your loved ones will remember!

Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats Recipe FAQs

What type of Rice Krispies should I use?
Absolutely! Traditional Rice Krispies are ideal as they provide the perfect balance of crunch. If you want to try something fun, you can swap them with similar puffed cereals, like Cocoa Krispies for a chocolate twist or Quaker Puffed Rice for a comparable texture.

How should I store my Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats?
These delightful treats can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To keep them fresh and chewy, avoid exposing them to moisture. If the weather is particularly humid, consider keeping them in the refrigerator, but note they may lose some of their crispness.

Can I freeze Fall Leaves Rice Krispie Treats?
Yes! To freeze, lay the treats flat in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet until firm. Then, stack them in an airtight container separated by layers of parchment paper. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

How can I make sure my treats hold their shape?
To help your treats maintain their delightful leaf shape, make sure the marshmallow mixture is not too hot when you mold them. Allow it to cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes after removing from heat; it should be warm, but comfortable to handle. Using cooking spray on your cookie cutter can also help release the treats easily without breaking.

Are there any dietary considerations for these treats?
Very! While these treats are generally safe for most, be mindful of allergies associated with marshmallows and butter. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute vegetable-based margarine and seek out vegan marshmallows. Always keep an eye on the packaging if serving to guests with food sensitivities.

Can I customize the colors for special occasions?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different colors of food coloring to suit your theme, whether it s for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or even a birthday party. Using gel food coloring can enhance the vibrancy. Just adjust the amount based on the intensity desired start with a drop and add more to reach your preferred hue.