These Fruity Pebbles Marshmallow Treats are a great no-bake dessert, perfect to make ahead and have ready in the refrigerator. They are chewy and crispy and gooey and everything that is good about a marshmallow treat. You can absolutely sub the Fruity Pebbles for a similar, small cereal.

The key to great marshmallow treats is the butter and marshmallow to cereal ratio. We want to keep these gooey while also being able to cut into neat slices. I decorate mine with a drizzle of white chocolate for that final look. For a really neat top, flip the fruity pebbles treats upside down before drizzling. This means you get the top looking entirely flat.

These are super sticky, so have everything ready to go before you start. Having ingredients measured out in advance in bowls means you can get everything mixed and pressed into the pan. This helps as the moment you add the cereal to the melted marshmallow and butter mixture, it will begin to set. By prepping the pan and ingredients, you can quickly press the mixture into the pan before placing in the refrigerator to set.

Tips for making the best Fruity Pebbles Marshmallow Treats

Making delicious marshmallow treats, like these Fruity Pebbles treats, is simple but requires attention to detail to ensure they turn out perfectly. Here are some tips:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

Marshmallows: Use fresh, high-quality marshmallows for the best texture and flavor.
Butter: Opt for unsalted butter for a richer taste and more control over the salt level.

2. Melt Marshmallows Slowly

Low Heat: Melt marshmallows over low heat to prevent burning. Stir frequently for an even melt.
Avoid Overheating: Overheating can cause the marshmallows to become too sticky and difficult to work with.

3. Grease Your Tools

Butter or Cooking Spray: Grease your mixing bowl, spatula, and pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

4. Use the Right Ratio

Proper Proportions: Follow the recipe’s ratio of marshmallows to cereal for the best texture. Too few marshmallows can make the treats dry and crumbly.

5. Mix Quickly

Combine Quickly: Mix the melted marshmallows with the cereal quickly to ensure even coating before the mixture starts to set.

6. Press Down Firmly

Even Texture: Use a buttered spatula or wax paper to press the mixture firmly into the pan. This ensures the treats hold together and have a uniform texture.

7. Let Cool Completely

Set Properly: Allow the treats to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This helps them firm up and makes cutting easier.

8. Add Extra Ingredients (Optional)

Mix-Ins: Enhance flavor and texture by adding ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles to the mixture before pressing it into the pan.

9. Store Properly

Airtight Container: Store treats in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness. They generally stay good for up to a week.

10. Use the Right Pan

Size Matters: Use the pan size specified in the recipe for the best thickness and consistency. A larger pan will result in thinner treats, while a smaller pan will yield thicker ones.

Following these tips will help you make perfect marshmallow treats every time—crispy, gooey, and delicious!

INGREDIENTS REQUIRED

There are no specialist ingredients or equipment required for this bake. I can find everything I need at my local supermarket or grocery store.I use a standard 8 inch square tin for almost all of my traybake recipes for ease. If you do want to convert to 9 inch, you’ll need to play with the quantities a little or they will be too thin. To line a square baking tin, cut two pieces of baking paper that are just narrower than the width of the tin (less than 8 inches wide). Then place one on top of the other in opposite directions, so that all four edges of the tin are covered. This will make removing the bake so much easier!

Mini Marshmallows
Fruity Pebbles Cereal
Unsalted Butter
White Chocolate (Optional)

I bake these Fruity Pebbles Marshmallow Treats in an 8×8″ inch square baking tray, but anything similar sized will work! For more no-bake recipes, check out this Chocolate Raspberry Tart! For videos and baking inspiration, head on over to my Instagram. If you make this recipe, don’t forget to drop it a star rating, leave a review or share a photo on your socials!

Marshmallow Treats: A Quick History Lesson

Marshmallow treats, particularly the popular Rice Krispies treats, have an interesting history that blends innovation with tradition. Here’s a brief overview:

Origins of Marshmallows

Ancient Beginnings: The marshmallow has roots in ancient Egypt, where a honey and mallow root confection was made. The mallow root was used for its medicinal properties and to thicken the sweet treat.
Modern Marshmallows: In the 19th century, French confectioners began making marshmallows with sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin, creating a more familiar candy. The mallow root was replaced by gelatin, which made the candy easier to produce and more consistent in texture.

Rise of Marshmallow Treats

Early 20th Century: Marshmallow treats, as we know them, became popular in the early 20th century in the U.S. The concept of combining marshmallows with cereal was an innovative twist on the traditional marshmallow candy.
Rice Krispies Treats: The most iconic marshmallow treat, Rice Krispies treats, was created by Mildred Day, a Kellogg’s employee, in the 1930s. Kellogg’s introduced this treat to promote their Rice Krispies cereal. The original recipe, featured in a Kellogg’s cookbook, combined Rice Krispies cereal with melted marshmallows and butter.

Post-War Popularity

1950s and Beyond: Rice Krispies treats gained widespread popularity in the post-war era as they were featured in numerous home economics classes and cookbooks. Their simplicity and the use of readily available ingredients made them a staple in American households.
Variety and Innovation: Over the years, the basic Rice Krispies treat recipe has inspired countless variations, including additions of chocolate, peanut butter, and other cereals, as well as different shapes and forms.

Modern-Day Marshmallow Treats

Cultural Icon: Today, marshmallow treats remain a beloved dessert in many cultures. The concept has expanded beyond Rice Krispies treats to include variations with different cereals, flavored marshmallows, and even homemade marshmallows.
Commercial and Homemade: Both commercial brands and homemade versions are popular. The simplicity of the recipe and the versatility of marshmallows continue to make these treats a favorite for various occasions and celebrations.

In summary, marshmallow treats have evolved from ancient confections to a modern American classic, reflecting both historical culinary practices and contemporary innovations.

STORAGE/MAKE AHEAD FOR MY Fruity Pebbles Marshmallow Treats

These are, by nature, a make ahead treat because they are no-bake and kept refrigerated. They will last in an airtight container in the fridge for about 2-3 days. After that, you will find the cereal can taste a little stale.

Keep these in the refrigerator and simply take one out whenever you want to eat them. For that really stretchy, gooey marshmallow pull, leave them out at room temp for about 20-30 minutes.