If you’re looking for a treat that’s equal parts spooky and sweet, these Rice Krispie Halloween Brains are it! They’re chewy, marshmallow-y, and just creepy enough to get a “Whoa!” at your next Halloween party. The best part? They come together in just 15 minutes , so you can spend more time haunting and less time baking.
🕒 Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 0 min
Total Time: 15 min
Servings: 16 treats
Ingredients:
- 5 cups (132g) Rice Krispies cereal (or any crispy rice cereal)
- ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter
- 1 (10-oz / 283g) bag mini marshmallows (about 8 cups)
- Red food coloring (gel preferred)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare your workspace , Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Set aside.
- Melt the magic , In a large saucepan over low heat, melt butter. Add marshmallows and stir until smooth and fully melted.
- Add creepy color , Stir in red food coloring until you get a light pink “brain” shade (remember, it’ll lighten when you add cereal).
- Mix it up , Remove from heat, pour in Rice Krispies, and stir until all pieces are coated.
- Shape the brains , Use a greased ice cream scoop or ¼ cup measure to portion out cereal mixture. Gently mold each mound into an oval shape with your hands.
- Add the “brain crease” Use the handle of a butter knife to create a central indent, then gently push the sides closer together for a realistic look.
- Paint on the gore , In a small bowl, mix a few drops of red food coloring with water. Use a clean paintbrush to streak “blood” across each brain.
- Cool & serve , Let set completely before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Pro Tips:
- Gel food coloring gives a richer color without adding too much liquid.
- Lightly grease your hands before shaping to prevent sticking.
- For an extra-scary touch, drizzle with red candy melts instead of food coloring.
Nutrition Info (per treat):
- Calories: 59
- Carbs: 7g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 3g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
Flavor Experiments:
- Add strawberry jam between two “brain halves” for a gooey “inside.”
- Dip bottoms in melted white chocolate for contrast.
- Sprinkle with edible glitter for a glam-gore vibe.
🧊 Make It Once, Eat It All Week:
- Storage: Airtight container, room temp, up to 7 days.
- Freezer-friendly: Freeze shaped brains (no “blood” yet) for up to 2 months. Add details after thawing.
- Batch tip: Double the recipe for party trays!
❌ Learn From Mistakes:
One year I got a little too generous with the red coloring , the kids thought they were raw meatballs instead of brains. Keep it light for a fun, not frightening, effect!