If you’re in the mood for a playful twist on a classic, Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies are exactly what you need in your baking lineup! Imagine the soft, buttery bite of a traditional sugar cookie meeting the irresistible, crunchy surprise of Rice Krispies cereal—all rolled together into the most snackable treat. I love how these cookies transform simple pantry staples into a dessert that’s both nostalgic and novel, making them a sure hit for bake sales, lunchbox treats, or cozy weekend baking. Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies just might become your new go-to when you want that perfect blend of softness and crunch, and they’re so easy, you’ll want to make them again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about making Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies is just how accessible the ingredients are—there’s a good chance you already have most of them tucked away at home! Each element plays an important part, creating the crave-worthy balance of texture and flavor that truly sets these cookies apart.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Gives your cookies that lovely rich, melt-in-your-mouth base; make sure it’s soft for effortless creaming.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the dough while helping achieve that classic sugar cookie texture—crisp edges, tender center.
- Egg (1 large): Binds everything together and lends structure so every cookie holds its shape.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warm, aromatic sweetness, rounding out all the other flavors.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The essential backbone of the dough, providing just the right chew and lift.
- Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Helps your cookies puff up slightly and turn golden at the edges.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances out the sweetness and elevates all the other flavors.
- Rice Krispies cereal (1½ cups): The star ingredient! Brings that signature snap and fun texture you’ll crave in every bite.
- Granulated sugar for rolling (¼ cup, optional): A quick roll before baking gives your cookies a sparkly finish and extra crunch.
How to Make Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C)—this ensures it’s ready when your cookies are. Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking, but also encourages those golden bottoms we all love, making cleanup a total breeze.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. Don’t rush this step—it creates the right foundation for soft, tender Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies with just enough crispness at the edges. I promise, it’s worth the extra minute or two!
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. This step brings moisture and warmth to your dough, giving your cookies that dreamy, homey flavor and maintaining just the right amount of softness.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
Grab a separate bowl and whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mixing them first ensures even distribution, so every cookie bakes up with the ideal crumb and rise—no flat, sad cookies here!
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to your creamed butter blend. Stir after each addition, just until a soft dough forms. Overmixing can toughen your cookies, so take it easy at this stage—they’ll thank you for it by being perfectly tender.
Step 6: Fold in Rice Krispies Cereal
Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal, being careful to mix just enough so the crispy bits are evenly distributed. Their delicate crunch is what gives Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies their signature charm—try not to crush them so you get maximum snap in each bite.
Step 7: Shape and Roll
Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. If you’re a fan of a little extra sweetness and sparkle, gently roll each dough ball in the optional granulated sugar. This step adds a delightfully crunchy outer layer and an irresistible bakery-style finish.
Step 8: Flatten and Bake
Place the dough balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart—they’ll spread a little as they bake. Use the bottom of a glass or your fingers to flatten each ball slightly. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden. Resist the urge to overbake; the cookies will continue to set as they cool!
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This short resting time helps maintain those delightfully crisp edges while allowing the centers to stay tender. Once completely cool, treat yourself—you earned it!
How to Serve Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies
Garnishes
While Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies taste amazing as-is, you can really make them shine with a playful dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of white chocolate, or even a few rainbow sprinkles. A little extra crunch from toasted coconut or a grating of lemon zest on top adds a subtle burst of flavor and color that’s both pretty and delicious.
Side Dishes
These cookies play well with others! Serve them alongside a cold glass of milk to bring out their childhood charm, or pair with a mug of hot cocoa or fresh coffee. For a dessert platter, try them with chocolate-dipped strawberries or a small bowl of fresh berries—the light, crisp cookies contrast beautifully with juicy, tart fruit.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies into the star of any event by stacking them in glass jars for an edible centerpiece, or wrapping bundles with colorful ribbon for an adorable gift. At parties, set up a DIY cookie topping bar with mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or funfetti, letting guests make each cookie uniquely theirs!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay crispy at the edges and soft in the middle for up to 4–5 days, so you can bake ahead without worry. If you’re in a humid climate, tossing a slice of bread into the container can help maintain their perfect texture.
Freezing
These cookies are fantastic for freezing, making them a great prep-ahead treat! Once completely cooled, arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. You can enjoy Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies straight from the freezer for up to 2 months—just give them a few minutes to thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
If you love a warm, just-baked cookie, pop a couple in the microwave for about 10–12 seconds, or heat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–5 minutes. This brings back that freshly baked feel and really revives the buttery aroma—plus, it melts any white chocolate you might have used as a garnish!
FAQs
Can I use a different cereal instead of Rice Krispies?
Absolutely! While the classic recipe calls for Rice Krispies, you can experiment with other crispy cereals for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that textural results may vary; anything too dense or sweet may overpower the delicate sugar cookie base.
Do I have to roll the cookies in extra sugar?
Rolling in extra sugar is optional, but I highly recommend it for that pretty, crackly finish and a touch more crunch. If you prefer a less-sweet cookie, you can skip this step and they’ll still be seriously delicious.
Can I make these cookies gluten free?
Yes, you can use a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. Just double-check that your cereal is also gluten free, as some brands of crispy rice cereal may contain malt or other gluten sources.
What’s the best way to keep Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies crisp?
To preserve that signature crunch from the Rice Krispies, be sure to let cookies cool completely before storing. An airtight container helps, as does including a slice of bread to prevent excess moisture from softening the cookies.
Can I add mix-ins like coconut or chocolate chips?
Definitely! For even more fun and flavor, try folding in a half cup of shredded coconut or white chocolate chips with the Rice Krispies. Just don’t overload the dough, or the cookies may lose their delicate texture. The mix-ins are perfect for customizing each batch to your mood.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to add a playful crunch to your cookie jar, Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies are just the recipe your kitchen needs. They’re easy, nostalgic, and so good you’ll be tempted to hide a few for yourself. Give them a try—you might just find yourself baking an extra batch to share!
Print
Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Rice Krispie Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional sugar cookies, with the added crunch of Rice Krispies cereal. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups Rice Krispies cereal
For Rolling (Optional):
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Add Rice Krispies: Gently fold in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly distributed.
- Form and Bake: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and, if desired, roll them in extra granulated sugar. Place on the prepared baking sheet, flatten slightly, and bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For added flavor and crunch, mix in ½ cup shredded coconut or white chocolate chips.
- These cookies freeze well—store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 95 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 1.5 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
