If you're craving a quick and easy chocolatey treat but want to skip the marshmallows, this Chocolate Rice Krispies Without Marshmallows recipe is just what you need. With only two simple ingredients, you’ll have a crunchy, rich, and homemade rice krispies in no time!
Craving for more chocolatey treats? Try my best ever Chocolate Chip Cookies, Caramel Salted Chocolate Cookies, and this 3 Ingredient Chocolate Cupcakes.

Jump to:
What are Chocolate Rice Krispies without Marshmallows
Traditional Rice Krispie treats use melted marshmallows to bind the cereal together. However, this version skips the marshmallows entirely and relies on melted chocolate to hold everything together, resulting in a crispy, rich, and intensely chocolatey bite.
With just two simple ingredients, these chocolate rice krispie treats are incredibly easy to make and requires no baking at all. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a homemade dessert, or a fun treat to share with family and friends, this recipe has you covered.
Plus, it’s completely customizable, so you can switch up the chocolate type, add nuts or dried fruit, or even drizzle caramel on top for an extra indulgence.
The best part? It’s a great alternative for those who prefer a treat without marshmallows, offering a slightly more refined texture and deep, rich chocolate flavor.
Substitutions
- Rice Krispies alternatives – Use puffed rice cereal or crispy rice cereal for the same crunchy texture.
- Sweetener options – Instead of shortening, try using coconut oil or honey or maple syrup for a naturally sweet touch.
- Dairy-free chocolate – Vegan chocolate chips ensure the recipe stays gluten-free and dairy-free.
Variations
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats – Stir in melted peanut butter for a richer flavor.
- Nut-Free Version – Use tahini or sunflower seed butter instead of nut-based spreads.
- Extra Crunch – Add chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or freeze-dried fruit, sunflower seeds or a little extra crispy rice cereal to the cereal mixture.
- Vanilla Infusion – A splash of vanilla extract enhances the overall depth of flavor.
Storage
- At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- In the fridge: Keeps fresh for up to 2 weeks.
- In the freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw before eating.
Ingredients
After gathering your ingredients, let's begin!
- dark chocolate chips
- rice krispies
- butter-flavored shortening (optional, for smoother melting)
Instructions
Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil. Sprinkle the Rice Krispies evenly across the pan.
On low heat, melt the chocolate chips in a saucepan, stirring continuously. If needed, add shortening to help achieve a smooth texture.
Pour the melted chocolate over the Rice Krispies, making sure it spreads evenly. Place in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Top Tips
- Use high-quality chocolate for better taste and texture.
- Stir constantly to prevent burning while melting the chocolate.
- Add extra Rice Krispies if you prefer a crunchier bite.
FAQ
Chocolate Rice Krispies without Marshmallows
Ingredients
- 2 cups dark chocolate chips
- ¼ cup rice krispies the more the better
- 1-2 tablespoons butter flavored shortening optional
Instructions
- In a 8x8 inch pan cover with parchment paper and spray it lightly with some oil. Add the rice krispies and spread out, then set aside.
- On low heat in a saucepan, add the dark chocolate chips and mix until nice and smooth. It should not take more than 4-5 minutes. If the chocolate does not get smooth, add some shortening to help thin it out.
- Pour the chocolate into the pan and spread out the chocolate. Place in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Serve.




Claire M says
Super simple sweet treat!
Cherry says
These chocolate rice krispies without marshmallows look so fun and easy to make. Thank you for sharing such a simple and tasty treat! 🙂
Simply Bakings Kitchen Team says
Aww thank you! 🍫✨ I’m so glad you like it—such a fun, easy treat without the marshmallows. Hope you enjoy making (and snacking on) it! 😊