If you love the classic marshmallow-infused crispy treat but want a tropical twist, you are going to adore this Coconut Rice Krispie Treats Recipe. These delightful bars blend the nostalgic crunch of Rice Krispies cereal with the sweet chewiness of shredded coconut and gooey marshmallows, creating a dessert that’s simple to make yet bursting with flavor. Each bite offers a perfect harmony of crispy texture and tropical sweetness that will have everyone begging for more. Whether you need a quick dessert for a party or a fun treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, these Coconut Rice Krispie Treats are an absolute winner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a large rectangular baking pan lined with parchment paper filled with light tan crispy rice treats topped with small white marshmallows and sprinkled with shredded white coconut. Next to the pan, a round white bowl is full of small white marshmallows, placed on a round wooden plate, and a small white dish with extra shredded coconut sits nearby on a white marbled surface. In the background, a black knife rests on a folded white cloth with black stripes, and a wooden tray is partly visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with this Coconut Rice Krispie Treats Recipe means gathering just a handful of ingredients that are easy to find but absolutely essential. Each one plays a special role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and appearance that make these treats irresistibly good.

6 tablespoons unsalted butter: Provides rich creaminess and helps bind the marshmallows and cereal together smoothly.
8 cups mini marshmallows: The gooey glue that makes every bite delightfully soft and chewy.
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal: Gives that signature crisp crunch that contrasts beautifully with the marshmallows.
1 ½ cups sweetened shredded coconut: Adds a tropical flavor boost and chewy texture throughout the treats.
2 cups mini marshmallows (additional): Folded in whole to add bursts of gooey softness inside the bars.
½ cup sweetened shredded coconut (for topping): Sprinkled on top for a pretty finish and extra coconut flavor.

How to Make Coconut Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start off by lining a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, then lightly grease the paper with non-stick cooking spray. This step is crucial so your treats lift out easily after they’ve set, keeping the edges clean and your squares perfectly shaped.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Marshmallows

In a large pot over medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it’s fully liquefied and shimmering. Immediately add 8 cups of mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they completely melt into a smooth, glossy mixture that’s warm and fluffy – this is the magic bonding agent for your treats.

Step 3: Combine Coconut and Cereal

Remove the pot from heat and quickly fold in 1 ½ cups of sweetened shredded coconut followed by 6 cups of crisp Rice Krispies cereal. Stir well to ensure every flake and shred is lovingly coated in the luscious marshmallow mixture, creating that perfect sticky yet crunchy texture.

Step 4: Fold in Extra Marshmallows

Now, gently fold in the additional 2 cups of mini marshmallows whole. These will create delightful pockets of soft marshmallow goodness within the treat, making each bite extra special.

Step 5: Transfer Mixture to Pan

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Using a lightly greased silicone spatula, carefully spread it out evenly. Be gentle—lightly pressing the mixture ensures your bars stay airy and light, not packed down dense.

Step 6: Add Coconut Topping and Set

Finally, sprinkle ½ cup of sweetened shredded coconut generously over the top for a pretty and tasty finish. Let the Coconut Rice Krispie Treats sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour to firm up perfectly. Remember to cover tightly if leaving them out longer, so they stay moist and chewy.

How to Serve Coconut Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

A close-up image shows a woman's hand with red nails holding a square crispy treat made of light tan rice cereal mixed with white marshmallows and topped with white shredded coconut flakes. The treat has a textured surface with small puffed cereal pieces visible through the sticky marshmallow mix. The woman's hand is lifting the square from a metal baking pan lined with parchment paper, filled with more of the same treats. The background is a white marbled surface with a few scattered small marshmallows and cereal pieces. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a little extra flair, consider dusting a pinch of toasted coconut flakes or drizzling a light swirl of melted white chocolate on top right before serving. This not only enhances the tropical vibe but also makes your treats irresistibly photogenic.

Side Dishes

These Coconut Rice Krispie Treats pair wonderfully with fresh fruit like sliced mango or pineapple for a balanced contrast. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a creamy coconut sorbet is also a dream come true alongside these bars.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the treats into fun shapes with cookie cutters for festive occasions or serving them stacked on a pretty platter lined with banana leaves to enhance the island-inspired presentation. Wrapping individual squares in colorful parchment paper makes them perfect for gifts or lunchbox surprises.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep your Coconut Rice Krispie Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain their soft, chewy texture, avoid the fridge as it can dry them out.

Freezing

If you want to make a batch in advance, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen Coconut Rice Krispie Treats will keep well for up to 2 months and thaw easily at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

These treats are best enjoyed as is, but if you prefer a warm, melty bite, gently microwave a square for 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat, or the marshmallows might become too soft and sticky to handle.

FAQs

Can I use regular shredded coconut instead of sweetened?

Yes, you can use unsweetened shredded coconut, but keep in mind it will reduce the overall sweetness of the treats. You might want to add a little sugar or a sweet drizzle on top to balance the flavor.

Is it possible to make these treats gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just be sure to use gluten-free Rice Krispies cereal, as the standard version sometimes contains malt flavoring derived from barley.

Can I substitute the butter for a dairy-free option?

Yes, using a plant-based margarine or coconut oil works well and enhances the coconut flavor even more. Just make sure your marshmallows are also dairy-free if you want the treat to be completely vegan.

Why do some Rice Krispie treats turn out hard instead of soft?

Overcooking the marshmallows or packing the mixture too firmly into the pan can make the treats dense and hard. Follow the gentle pressing method and remove the marshmallow mixture from heat as soon as it’s melted for the best, soft texture.

How do I make sure the marshmallows melt evenly?

Use low to medium heat and stir continuously while melting the butter and marshmallows. Removing the pot from heat immediately after melting helps prevent burning and ensures a smooth mixture.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Coconut Rice Krispie Treats Recipe enough if you’re looking for a fun, quick dessert that feels both nostalgic and exotic all at once. It’s perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort but maximum flavor. So go ahead, grab those ingredients, whip up a batch, and watch these tropical treats disappear faster than you can say “yum!”