Name: Soft Rice Krispie Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk; 1 bag (10 ounces) miniature marshmallows; 6 cups (174 g) rice cereal

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These Soft Rice Krispie Bars are everything you love about the classic treat—only better. Made with sweetened condensed milk, these bars are extra soft, chewy, and perfectly sweet. With just a handful of ingredients and no baking required, they’re a quick and easy dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’ve ever had a dry or stiff Rice Krispie treat, this recipe will change your mind forever. The secret ingredient—sweetened condensed milk—creates a luscious, gooey texture that keeps the bars soft for days. They’re perfect for parties, bake sales, after-school snacks, or anytime you want a nostalgic sweet fix. Plus, they come together in under 10 minutes with just a few pantry staples.

Soft Rice Krispie Bars

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1 bag (10 ounces) miniature marshmallows
6 cups (174 g) rice cereal

Directions

Lightly spray an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter.
Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly to prevent it from scorching.
Add the marshmallows and stir frequently until they are completely melted and smooth.
Remove the pot from the heat. Using a rubber spatula (sprayed with nonstick spray), fold in the rice cereal until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press it into an even layer.
Let the bars cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 12 bars (depending on how you slice them)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Resting Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: Approximately 180–200 kcal per bar (depending on portion size)

Variations

Chocolate Drizzle: Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over the top before the bars set.
Peanut Butter Twist: Add ¼ cup of peanut butter to the marshmallow mixture for a nutty version.
Festive Touch: Stir in sprinkles, mini M&Ms, or seasonal candies before pressing into the pan.
Brown Butter: Brown the butter before adding the condensed milk for a deeper, nutty flavor.
Salted Version: Add a pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change.
Reheating: No reheating needed, but if they’ve hardened slightly, a 5-second microwave zap can help soften them.

FAQs

What makes these Rice Krispie bars so soft?

The addition of sweetened condensed milk adds moisture and richness, keeping the bars softer for longer than the traditional version.

Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini?

Yes, just measure about 10 ounces and chop them for quicker melting.

Why is my mixture too sticky to spread?

Make sure to spray your spatula and hands with nonstick spray—it helps a lot when pressing the mixture into the pan.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Use a 9×13-inch baking dish and double all the ingredients accordingly.

How long do they need to set before cutting?

Let them rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to firm up properly.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free condensed milk alternative (like coconut condensed milk) for a non-dairy version.

Can I use flavored marshmallows?

Yes, though it may slightly alter the flavor and color. Vanilla or fruity versions can add fun twists.

What’s the best way to cut them cleanly?

Use a sharp knife coated with nonstick spray or butter to slice cleanly through the bars.

Will these travel well?

Yes, they hold up great at room temperature, making them perfect for lunchboxes or potlucks.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Definitely! Mini chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or chopped nuts can all be stirred in before setting.

Conclusion

These Soft Rice Krispie Bars are a delicious upgrade to the classic treat—chewy, gooey, and melt-in-your-mouth soft thanks to the sweetened condensed milk. With just a few minutes of prep and zero baking required, this recipe is your go-to for effortless desserts that everyone will rave about. Whether for holidays, parties, or simple weeknight cravings, these bars are always a hit.