These Original Soft & Chewy Rice Krispie Treats are a classic no-bake dessert made with just three simple ingredients and 5-minutes of prep!

Classic Microwave Rice Krispie Treats Recipe!

Sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones we come back to again and again. These Original Microwave Rice Krispie Treats are a timeless favorite made with just a few pantry staples and ready in minutes! Soft, gooey marshmallows, crispy Rice Krispies cereal, and melted butter come together to create the classic treat that generations have loved.

Whether you’re making an after-school snack, a quick dessert for a party, or a nostalgic treat to share with family and friends, this easy microwave version delivers perfect results every time. No oven, no complicated steps, and no special equipment required. Just a few minutes of prep and you’ll have a pan of chewy, marshmallow-filled treats ready to enjoy!

Why this Recipe Works

3-Simple Ingredients – Butter, marshmallows, and Rice Krispies cereal create a classic combination that is easy, dependable, and timeless.

Perfect Marshmallow-to-Cereal Ratio – The balance ensures the treats are gooey and chewy without being overly sticky or dry.

Consistent Results Every Time – I have made these countless times! With minimal steps and ingredients, this recipe is reliable and easy to repeat!

No-Bake Convenience – Skipping the oven makes this recipe quick, foolproof, and ideal for all skill levels.

Sets Quickly Without Drying Out – The treats firm up just enough to slice cleanly while staying soft inside.

Close‑up of gooey original Rice Krispie treat

Ingredients You’ll Need

3 tbsp Butter (Melted) – Adds richness and flavor while helping the marshmallows melt smoothly and prevent sticking.

1 (10 oz) bag Marshmallows – A sweet, gooey binder that holds the cereal together and creates the classic chewy texture.

6 cups Rice Krispies Cereal – Provides a light, crispy crunch that balances the soft marshmallow mixture and gives the treats their structure.

Chewy original Rice Krispie treat showing marshmallow texture

How to Make the Rice Krispie Treats in the Microwave

NOTE: When measuring the marshmallows, you can alternatively use 40 large Jet-Puffed marshmallows or 5 1/2 cups mini Jet-Puffed marshmallows.

Spray 9 x 13 pan with non-stick spray and set aside.

Melt 3 tbsp butter in a large microwave safe bowl.

Pour 1 (10 oz) bag of marshmallows into the bowl and stir.

Place into microwave for 45 seconds, remove and stir.

Return to the microwave and heat for another 45 seconds. Remove from the microwave and stir again.

Pour 6 cups Rice Krispies into the melted marshmallows and mix until well combined.

Distribute evenly and press gently into the pan.

Pro Tip: Place a Ziplock bag over your hand and spray the outside of the bag with non-stick spray before pressing down the Rice Krispie Treats. This helps to keep them from sticking to your hand!

Low Heat Prevents Hard Treats – I have found that melting the marshmallows in the microwave gently keeps them smooth and stretchy, which leads to soft bars instead of hard ones.

Press Lightly – Gently pressing the mixture into the pan prevents dense, compact treats and keeps the texture light.

Fresh Marshmallows – Using fresh marshmallows creates gooey treats, while old or stale marshmallows can make bars tough or dry.

Use Non-Stick Spray on Tools – Greasing your tools with non-stick spray, including your hands, will prevent sticking and makes spreading easier without compressing the mixture.