Rice Krispie buns are a firm favourite for a reason. They’re quick, they’re no-bake, and they’re one of the easiest ways to get preschoolers involved in the kitchen without worrying about hot ovens or long attention spans running out halfway through.
This classic chocolate Rice Krispie buns recipe is ideal for a rainy afternoon, a birthday party, or just a fun way to spend twenty minutes with the kids. There’s minimal mess, minimal skill required, and maximum enjoyment — especially at the eating stage.
Why This Recipe Works So Well With Kids
The best part of this recipe for children is the mixing — and then, of course, the eating once the buns have set. There’s no baking involved, so it comes together quickly and safely, with only a little supervision needed for the melting stage.
Even older children enjoy getting hands-on with this one, and it needs very little adult involvement once the chocolate has been melted. This recipe makes approximately 18–24 Rice Krispie buns depending on how generous your portions are, so there should be plenty to go around.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 200g milk chocolate
- Puffed rice cereal (or another breakfast cereal of your choice) — start with 200g, but you may need a little more depending on how crispy you like your buns
- Decorations of your choice: chocolate sprinkles, hundreds and thousands, mini marshmallows, or anything else you fancy
How to Make Chocolate Rice Krispie Buns
1. Break the chocolate into pieces and melt it gently (an adult’s job, or a job to supervise closely).
2. Once melted, stir in the puffed rice cereal a little at a time until it’s evenly coated in chocolate. Add more cereal if the mixture feels too wet.
3. Spoon the mixture into paper cases or a lined tray, letting the kids help with spooning and decorating.
4. Add sprinkles, hundreds and thousands, mini marshmallows, or whatever toppings you like while the mixture is still soft.
5. Pop them in the fridge until set, then enjoy!
Watch the full step-by-step in the video below:
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Tips for Making It Easier With Little Ones
- Let preschoolers handle the stirring and spooning stages — these are the safest and most satisfying parts for small hands.
- Lay out toppings in small bowls so kids can choose and decorate their own buns.
- If you’re short on cereal, feel free to top up with another crunchy breakfast cereal you have in the cupboard.
- These buns are a handy make-ahead treat for parties, since they just need time in the fridge to set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes, milk chocolate works well for a classic sweet taste, but you can use dark or white chocolate if you prefer, or a mix of both for variety.
What cereal works best for Rice Krispie buns?
Puffed rice cereal is the traditional choice and gives the classic light, crispy texture, but other breakfast cereals can work too if that’s what you have on hand.
How long do Rice Krispie buns keep?
Stored in an airtight container in a cool place, they’ll keep for a few days, though they rarely last that long in most houses.
Is this recipe safe for young children to help with?
Yes, with adult supervision for the chocolate-melting step. Once the chocolate is melted, the mixing and decorating stages are ideal for little hands.
Can I freeze Rice Krispie buns?
Many families do freeze similar no-bake treats successfully, but for best texture and taste, we’d recommend enjoying these fresh within a few days.
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