Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. You'll also want to have your spatula and mixing bowl ready.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the marshmallows and butter. Microwave on high for 1 minute, stir, then continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the marshmallows are completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt them in a large saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth.1 package (10.5 oz) marshmallows, 3 tablespoons butter or margarine
- Stir in the vanilla extract. If you're adding food coloring for festive pink or red Rice Krispie Valentine Hearts, add a few drops of gel food coloring now and stir until the color is evenly distributed. Gel coloring provides a more vibrant hue without altering the consistency.1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 package Pink or red gel food coloring
- Add the Rice Krispies cereal to the melted marshmallow mixture. Stir gently with a greased spatula until the cereal is evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the treats tough.6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- Working quickly before the mixture cools too much, transfer the Rice Krispie mixture into your prepared pan. Lightly grease your hands or the back of a spoon and press the mixture evenly into the pan. For heart shapes, you have a few options: Cookie Cutters: While the mixture is still warm in the pan, you can use large, lightly greased heart-shaped cookie cutters to press the mixture into the desired shape. Freehand: For a more rustic look, you can scoop portions of the warm mixture and shape them into rough heart shapes with your greased hands. Cut After Setting: Alternatively, press the entire mixture into the pan, let it cool completely, then use heart-shaped cookie cutters to cut out your Rice Krispie Valentine Hearts.
- Once shaped, immediately sprinkle your Rice Krispie Valentine Hearts with Valentine's Day sprinkles, edible glitter, or crushed candy hearts. If using white chocolate for drizzling, melt it according to package directions and drizzle it over the cooled hearts once they have fully set.1 package Valentine's Day sprinkles, 1 package White chocolate melting wafers, 1 package Crushed candy hearts
- Let the Rice Krispie Valentine Hearts cool and set completely in the pan (if cut from the pan) or on a parchment-lined surface for at least 30 minutes before removing to serve.
Notes
To keep your Rice Krispie Valentine Hearts fresh and delightful, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed within 2-3 days of making them for optimal texture. Avoid refrigerating them, as this can make them hard and less chewy. If you need to store them for longer, you can wrap individual hearts tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They can typically be frozen for up to 2 weeks; allow them to thaw completely at room temperature before enjoying. Reheating is generally not recommended, as the gentle warmth might cause the marshmallow to soften excessively, altering the texture.
