How to Make Marshmallow Cereal Treats

Turn your favorite cereal into a dessert bar.

Creating treats from cereal and marshmallows has been a big hit for many years. While the most popular cereal treats are made with puffed rice, just about any dry cereal can be used. Experiment with different flavors and find a variation to call your own.

Things You'll Need

• Saucepan
• Rubber spatula
• Baking pan (13 by 9)
• Large mixing bowl
• 6 cups cereal
• 35 marshmallows
• 4 tablespoons butter or margarine

Instructions

1. Grease the bottom and sides of the pan to prevent the sticky marshmallow from adhering to it.

2. Measure the cereal you have selected for your into a large mixing bowl.

3. Melt the margarine or butter in a saucepan and add the marshmallows. Stir constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and no lumps remain.

4. Pour the melted marshmallow mixture into the mixing bowl containing the cereal, using a rubber spatula to scrape the pan. Mix well. A wooden spoon works well for combining the gooey mixture with the cereal.

5. Plop the thoroughly combined mixture into the prepared baking pan. Using your spatula, press the mixture firmly into the pan.

6. Allow the marshmallow cereal treats to cool completely and harden slightly. This usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. Cut into squares or bars and serve.

Tips & Warnings

• During the holidays, make holly treats using cornflakes. After the marshmallows are completely melted, add green food coloring to the mixture. Instead of pressing the mixture into a pan, drop by tablespoonfuls onto waxed paper. Top each mound of green cereal goo with three red hot candies.

• The melted margarine and marshmallow mixture is very hot--use caution when handling it.

• Marshmallows in any form create a sticky mess! Use hot soapy water to remove this substance from pans, counters, and people.