Name: Funfetti Rice Krispie Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup white cake mix; ½ cup unsalted butter; 20 oz mini marshmallows; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 7 cups crispy rice cereal; 2 cups mini marshmallows (additional); ⅓ cup rainbow sprinkles

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

These funfetti rice krispie treats are soft, gooey, and packed with cheerful rainbow sprinkles and a subtle birthday-cake flavor. With no baking required and minimal prep time, they’re an easy crowd-pleasing dessert that feels festive for any occasion, from birthdays to school events or a simple sweet craving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These treats come together quickly with simple pantry ingredients and no oven time. The addition of white cake mix gives them a nostalgic funfetti flavor that sets them apart from classic rice krispie treats. They’re chewy, colorful, easy to slice, and perfect for making ahead. Kids love them, adults love them, and cleanup is minimal.

Ingredients

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

1 cup white cake mix
½ cup unsalted butter
20 oz mini marshmallows
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
7 cups crispy rice cereal
2 cups mini marshmallows (additional)
⅓ cup rainbow sprinkles

Directions

Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and line it with parchment paper, leaving extra parchment hanging over the sides for easy removal later.

Heat-treat the white cake mix by placing it in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until it reaches 160°F (71°C), about 1 to 1½ minutes total. Sift the cake mix through a fine mesh strainer and allow it to cool.

In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the 20 ounces of mini marshmallows and stir continuously until completely melted and smooth. Remove the saucepan from the heat.

Stir in the heat-treated cake mix, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined. Gently fold in the crispy rice cereal and the additional 2 cups of mini marshmallows, mixing until everything is evenly coated.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Lightly moisten your hands with water and gently press the mixture into an even layer without compacting it too firmly. Sprinkle the rainbow sprinkles evenly over the top.

Let the treats rest at room temperature for 1 hour. Once set, lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 bars
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Resting time: 1 hour
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

For extra richness, you can replace half of the unsalted butter with an equal amount of cream-based spread.
Chocolate lovers can drizzle melted halal-certified chocolate over the top after the treats have set.
Swap rainbow sprinkles for themed sprinkles to match holidays or special events.
Add a teaspoon of almond extract alongside the vanilla for a bakery-style flavor twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep them away from heat and direct sunlight to maintain their soft texture. Refrigeration and freezing are not recommended, as colder temperatures can make the treats firm and less chewy. These bars are best enjoyed at room temperature and do not require reheating.

FAQs

Do I need to heat-treat the cake mix?

Yes, heat-treating is important to make the cake mix safe to eat since it is not baked in this recipe.

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

White cake mix works best for a classic funfetti flavor, but a vanilla cake mix can also be used if it is heat-treated.

Why shouldn’t I mix the sprinkles into the cereal mixture?

Mixing sprinkles directly into the warm mixture can cause the colors to bleed, resulting in a dull appearance. Sprinkling them on top keeps the colors bright.

How do I prevent sticking when pressing the mixture into the pan?

Lightly wet your hands with water before pressing the mixture. This prevents sticking without adding extra fat.

Can I make these treats ahead of time?

Yes, they can be made up to two days in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

What’s the best way to cut clean squares?

Use a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion once the treats are fully set.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

You can slightly reduce the marshmallows, but the treats will be less gooey. The recipe is designed for a soft, sweet texture.

Are these treats suitable for parties?

Absolutely. They’re easy to transport, don’t require refrigeration, and are visually fun for celebrations.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and use a larger pan, or make two separate 9×13-inch pans.

Why are my treats too hard?

Pressing the mixture too firmly into the pan or overheating the marshmallows can lead to a hard texture. Gentle handling is key.

Conclusion

Funfetti rice krispie treats are a playful upgrade to a classic favorite, combining chewy marshmallows, crispy cereal, and colorful sprinkles with a hint of cake flavor. They’re quick to prepare, easy to store, and guaranteed to bring a little extra joy to any table. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want a fun no-bake dessert, these treats are always a winning choice.