Gluten Free Rice Krispies​

Craving a nostalgic bite that’s light, crispy, and sweet? These gluten free rice krispies treats are the perfect no-fuss dessert. We’re keeping all the gooey marshmallow magic without the gluten. Whether you’re whipping up lunchbox snacks or crowd-pleasers for a party, this version will keep everyone reaching for seconds.

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What Makes Rice Krispies Gluten Free (Or Not)?

Are rice krispies gluten free?

Let’s get this cleared up right away: not all rice krispies are gluten free. While rice is naturally gluten-free, Kellogg’s original Rice Krispies contain barley malt extract, which includes gluten. That tiny ingredient is enough to make the cereal a no-go for anyone avoiding gluten.

So, if you’ve ever picked up a box assuming it’s safe, you’re not alone. It’s a common assumption that has caught many off guard.

Here’s what to look for instead:

• The words “Certified Gluten Free” clearly marked on the box
• Ingredient lists that avoid barley malt and use brown rice or plain rice
• Brands like Aldi’s Millville Crispy Rice Cereal, Nature’s Path, and One Degree Organics offer safe options

Always read labels, even on “healthy” brands. Some versions that seem clean sneak in flavorings or malt syrup. And if you’ve already been making fun themed versions like these Mickey Rice Krispie Treats, you’ll want to double-check the cereal you’re using for next time.

Is there a gluten free version of Rice Krispies?

Yes, and it’s more common than you’d think! Plenty of grocery stores now stock gluten-free crispy rice cereal options right alongside the traditional versions.

Here are a few fan favorites:

• Aldi Millville Crispy Rice – budget-friendly and perfectly crisp
• One Degree Organics Sprouted Brown Rice Crisps – great texture, organic
• Nature’s Path Crispy Rice – mild taste, holds its crunch well

Pro tip: Don’t just go by the brand. Double-check that each variety is actually labeled gluten free, some brands make both versions.

These alternatives hold up beautifully in recipes, and in some cases, taste even fresher than the classic. Now let’s get into the sweet stuff.

Recipe

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How to Make Gluten Free Rice Krispies Perfect Every Time

How do you make gluten free Rice Krispies treats?

The magic of gluten free rice krispie treats is all in the method. You’ve got a few ingredients, but how you handle them matters just as much as what’s in the bowl.

Here’s how to get that signature soft, chewy pull in every bite:

Start low and slow.
Melt the butter and marshmallows over low heat only. Cranking the heat will cook the sugars too quickly, resulting in hard, rubbery bars. Be patient, it’s worth the five-minute wait.

Don’t fully melt the second batch of marshmallows.
After removing the pot from heat, stir in the final 2 cups of marshmallows. Let them soften, not dissolve completely. This keeps the treats gooier with little pockets of marshmallow throughout. That texture? Game-changer.

Measure your cereal right.
Use exactly 8 cups of cereal for the perfect ratio. Too little and they’re sticky. Too much and they crumble apart. Gently fold the cereal into the melted marshmallows until evenly coated.

Stir in extras at the right time.
If you’re adding sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or flavored powders, do it after the cereal is mixed in but while everything’s still warm. This helps distribute the extras evenly without them melting into mush.

Want to make them pop with color? Swap your base with something fun like we do in our Fruity Pebbles Rice Krispie Treats, a vibrant twist that still stays gluten free if you pick the right cereal.

Best tools and pans for foolproof treats

Even if your mix is perfect, the wrong pan or technique can flatten the fun. Here’s how to keep that just-right texture from start to finish.

Use a 9×13-inch baking pan.
This size gives the treats a perfect thickness: not too flat, not too chunky. Anything larger and they’ll be too thin, anything smaller and they risk being too dense.

Grease everything – yes, everything.
Spray the pan, your spatula, and even your hands with a light coating of cooking spray or lightly rub with neutral oil. This helps shape the treats without sticking.

Don’t press too hard.
The biggest mistake? Pressing the mixture down too firmly. It makes them tough. Instead, use a light touch and just even out the surface.

Line with parchment or wax paper.
Makes removal and cleanup a breeze. You can even lift the whole slab out and cut clean squares on a cutting board.

Bonus tip: Use cookie cutters for fun shapes, kids love it, and it’s perfect for birthdays or themed events.

Ready to elevate your treat game? For more variety, try layered bars like our No Bake Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars next time. Same effort, double the flavor!

Gluten-Free Ingredient Swaps You Can Trust

Do marshmallows have gluten?

You’d think marshmallows are just sugar and fluff, right? Mostly yes, but not all are created equal.

The majority of marshmallows sold in the U.S. are gluten free, but a few can contain additives or starches that may sneak in trace gluten. The good news? You can easily find safe options with a quick label check.

Here’s how to shop smart:

• Look for “gluten free” certification on the package. It’s your safest bet.
• Avoid products with vague ingredients like “modified food starch” unless they specify it’s derived from corn.
• Be cautious with flavored marshmallows, some seasonal varieties include colorings or fillers that aren’t gluten friendly.

Brands commonly considered safe:

• Jet-Puffed Marshmallows (most varieties)
• Dandies Marshmallows (also soy-free and corn syrup–free)
• Trader Joe’s Marshmallows

Once you’ve got your marshmallows picked, you’re halfway there. That soft stretch when they melt into warm butter? It’s what makes each bite of your gluten free rice krispie treats pure bliss.

Just like we kept things kid-friendly and allergy-aware in our Mickey Rice Krispie Treats, this recipe keeps the ingredients simple, clean, and dependable.

Choosing the right crispy cereal

Here’s where most people accidentally go wrong. Not all rice cereals are actually gluten free, even though they sound like they should be.

The culprit? Barley malt. It’s added for flavor, but it’s loaded with gluten. That’s why Kellogg’s original Rice Krispies are not safe for gluten-free diets.

Instead, go for certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal made without barley, malt extract, or cross-contaminated grains. Here’s what to look for:

• Certified gluten-free label
• Short ingredient list – ideally just rice and salt
• Freshness factor – cereal should feel light and snappy, not stale or soft

Top trusted gluten-free brands:

Stick to these and your treats will turn out just as chewy and crispy as you remember. Even better? You can swap the base cereal to get playful with flavor and color, just like we do in our Fruity Pebbles Rice Krispie Treats. Just remember to check the box for gluten-free labeling, some colorful cereals aren’t as safe as they look.

Serving, Storing & Creative Twists

How to store gluten free rice krispies treats

Once you’ve made a perfect pan of gooey, crispy squares, you’ll want to keep them tasting just as good the next day (and maybe the next… if they last that long).

Here’s how to keep your treats fresh and chewy:

Short-term storage (2–3 days):

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature
• Layer with parchment or wax paper between each row to prevent sticking
• Keep away from heat or direct sunlight, they’ll melt and lose their texture

For longer storage (up to 6 weeks):

• Wrap each square individually in wax paper or cling film
• Place in a zip-top freezer bag or container
• Store flat to prevent squishing
• To serve: let thaw at room temp for about an hour

Avoid refrigerating, as it tends to dry out the marshmallows and makes the cereal go soft.

These tips work great for party prep or school lunches, just like our Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars that also store beautifully and are perfect for freezing ahead.

Flavor ideas & seasonal variations

The best part about gluten free rice krispies treats? Once you master the base, you can mix things up in endless ways. Here are some of our favorite flavor twists to try:

Flavor Boosts:

• Add 1/2 cup peanut or almond butter to the melted butter mix
• Stir in cinnamon, cocoa powder, or vanilla bean paste
• Mix in dried fruits or toasted coconut for texture

Festive & Seasonal Add-ins:

• Use cookie cutters for holiday shapes, hearts, pumpkins, stars
• Add gluten-free food coloring to the marshmallows for fun color themes
• Sprinkle mini chocolate chips or colorful candy on top (while still warm)

Kid-Approved Combos:

• Swirl in marshmallow fluff for extra goo
• Use gluten-free chocolate or caramel drizzle over the top
• Make sandwich-style treats with a thin layer of nut spread between two layers

Don’t be afraid to get playful, especially if you’re baking with kids or making a themed tray for birthdays. Just be sure to keep the ingredients gluten free and double-check any pre-made toppings.

When you want a bold twist with a nostalgic crunch, circle back to our Chocolate Covered Rice Krispie Treats. They hit every craving in one bite.

Sweet & Simple to the Last Bite

These gluten free rice krispies treats are the perfect blend of nostalgia and simplicity. With just six ingredients, 20 minutes, and a little love, you’ll have a pan of soft, chewy squares that taste just like childhood without any gluten. They store beautifully, freeze well, and offer a blank canvas for every flavor you dream up. Keep your cereal and marshmallow choices clean, follow the low-heat trick, and you’re golden. Now go ahead and make a batch. Or two.

Love quick & easy desserts like this? Follow us on Pinterest for more sweet bites and no-fuss treats!

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